Although uterine fibroids affect up to 50% of all women globally and are the leading cause of hysterectomy in the United States, few people are aware of their existence as a medical condition. They’re one of those issues in women’s health that people like to keep quiet, despite the pain and suffering they cause. Many women feel as if they’re confined to the only effective uterine fibroid treatments include a hysterectomy, which, while a woman’s personal choice, can be devastating for some. Before making any decisions about uterine fibroid surgery, you should know all of your options.

What Are Uterine Fibroids?

Uterine fibroids are growths that appear in the uterus, often during a woman’s fertile years. Though noncancerous, they can still cause some health problems. Some are located under the outside layer of the uterus … subserosal fibroids. Intramural fibroids develop within the uterine wall, and can change the shape of the uterine cavity or the outer shape of the uterus.

What Are The Symptoms Of Fibroids

The symptoms of fibroid cysts include heavy bleeding and pain during a woman’s menstrual cycle, as well as prolonged cycles, leg, and back pain. Although the cause of the bleeding is unclear, 46% of women diagnosed with fibroids describe their bleeding as “gushing” or “flooding”, compared to only 28% of women without fibroids who described the same symptoms. This can cause complications like anemia. Luckily, there are uterine fibroid treatments available.

Removal Of Uterine Fibroids Through Hysterectomy

A hysterectomy is the surgical removal of the uterus; it may or may not include an ovariectomy, the surgical removal of the ovaries. Although a hysterectomy is effective at eliminating uterine fibroids and the possibility of reoccurrence, it can be a difficult decision for pre-menopausal women to face, and the recovery period can be long and intense. It also has long … lasting hormonal effects. However, a hysterectomy may be a very good option for menopausal or post … menopausal women.

Laparoscopy Pros And Cons

A laparoscopy is a procedure involving making an incision around the patient’s navel and removing any cysts. While less invasive, laparoscopy is more effective at removing small cysts than large ones. A laparotomy, though more invasive, can remove larger and more serious cysts. Both of these do allow the chance for recurrence.

Acessa: Radiofrequency Ablation

Acessa is among the newer uterine fibroid treatments. It involves using a laparoscopic probe to locate fibroids. With ultrasound guidance, electrodes are deployed within the fibroid, successful ablating the cyst. Acessa is among the least intense but most effective treatments for uterine fibroids, with women returning home hours after surgery and resuming regular activity within 5 to 9 days. It avoids the hormonal side effects and recovery time of a hysterectomy. Ultimately, however, the choice is yours. Do what is best for your health and your personal situation; you’ll be glad you did.