Fibroids: Symptoms and Treatment Options
A noninvasive method uses an MRI to precisely target ultrasound energy, which is sent through the abdomen and focused on the fibroid. The sound waves increase the temperature of the fibroid tissue to destroy the tissue and shrink the fibroid. This procedure is not an option if you plan to get pregnant in the future.
Endometrial ablation. This minimally invasive treatment is performed on an outpatient basis or in a doctor's office with local anesthetic. Although not indicated for the treatment of fibroids, it uses electrical energy, radiofrequency, microwaves, hot water or cold to destroy the lining of the uterus. However, studies find about 20 percent of women choose to have a hysterectomy within five years of an ablation, more as time goes on, because the fibroids and symptoms return. An endometrial ablation procedure does not treat the fibroids but reduces or eliminates heavy periods by destroying the endometrial lining. This procedure is not indicated for women who suffer from "bulk" symptoms, such as urinary frequency, constipation or pelvic pain.Myomectomy. This procedure surgically removes just the fibroids, leaving the uterus, and is the second most common treatment for fibroids after hysterectomy. It's a good option for women who still want to be able to have children, although studies find about 27 percent of fibroids recur by 10 years after treatment. Complications include infection, blood loss requiring a transfusion and postoperative adhesions (which may require additional surgery). This procedure can be performed with general
