How to Reduce Fibroid Tumors

Fibroid tumors are referred to by various medical terms such as myoma, leiomyoma, leiomyomata and fibromyoma. These non-cancerous masses grow in the uterus and it is not uncommon for women to have several fibroid tumors of different sizes. Although some types of fibroid tumors may be painless, others cause a variety of symptoms including pelvic pain, heavy menstrual bleeding and frequent urination. Some types of fibroid tumors can inhibit or prevent pregnancy. Reducing fibroid tumors can be challenging and frequently involves surgery.

Instructions

1. See your doctor for a thorough physical examination. Fibroid tumors are usually discovered by the doctor during a pelvic examination. Confirmation of the diagnosis will usually be made through the use of an ultrasound or CT scan.

2. Discuss treatment options with your doctor. Factors to consider prior to making a determination of the best treatment should include any symptoms you are currently experiencing, whether you have plans for childbearing and the location, size and type of the existing fibroid tumors.

3. Consider non-invasive surgery if you still desire to be able to become pregnant. Recently developed techniques such as Magnetic Resonance Guided Focused Ultrasound Surgery uses high intensity focused ultrasound waves (HIFU) to reduce fibroid tumors without affecting the surrounding tissue.

4. Discuss with your doctor the risks and benefits of hormone therapy to reduce the size of you fibroid tumors. Treatment with GnRH, a modified version of the gonadotropin releasing hormone, can cause fibroids to shrink. However, GnRH does have certain menopause-like side effects including the potential to cause the bones to thin. It may also cause miscarriage or developmental abnormalities in unborn children.

5. Choose surgical treatment for the reduction of fibroid tumors if you and your doctor agree it offers the best hope for your health. Surgical procedures range from laparoscopic "bellybutton" surgery to a complete hysterectomy, which would require a stay in the hospital and possible extended recovery time.

Tips & Warnings

• All surgery carries with it inherent risks. Always consult with your doctor to ensure you are fully aware of the risks prior to proceeding.

References

• American Pregnancy Organizaion
• Fibroids USA
• Endometreosis.org

Resources

• Society of Interventional Radiology