Procedure guide · Gynaecology and interventional radiology
Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths in or around the wall of the uterus. MedlinePlus explains that women without symptoms may not need treatment. For others the choice depends on symptoms, age, the fibroids’ size and position, and whether pregnancy is planned. There is no single fibroid operation. Comparing options is the first step.
What are the treatment options for fibroids?
MedlinePlus lists several approaches:
- Medicines that can slow or stop fibroid growth
- Myomectomy, an operation that removes fibroids and keeps the uterus
- Uterine artery embolisation, which blocks the fibroids’ blood supply
- Hysterectomy, removal of the uterus, which MedlinePlus says may be considered near or after menopause, for very large fibroids or heavy bleeding
MedlinePlus describes uterine artery embolisation as a non-surgical procedure done by an interventional radiologist. A thin catheter is passed through an artery at the top of the leg, or sometimes the wrist, to the uterine arteries. Small particles are injected to block blood flow to the fibroids, which typically makes them shrink. You are sedated but awake.
Who may be suitable for which treatment?
MedlinePlus notes that fibroids sometimes shrink during and after menopause. It says that many women with fibroids become pregnant without problems, although some fibroids can affect fertility or pregnancy. For uterine artery embolisation, it advises women who want to become pregnant to discuss the procedure carefully with their doctor. It may reduce the chances of a successful pregnancy. A gynaecologist, sometimes with an interventional radiologist, decides which option suits you.
Say what matters to you
Tell the doctors early whether you hope to become pregnant and whether keeping your uterus matters to you. Those wishes change which treatments are offered.
What reports should you send?
MedlinePlus lists pelvic ultrasound, MRI and a sample of the uterine lining among tests before embolisation. For any fibroid treatment, send:
- Pelvic ultrasound or MRI reports with image files, showing fibroid size and position
- Haemoglobin results, especially if bleeding is heavy
- Results of any endometrial biopsy or cervical screening
- A history of treatments tried and their effect
- Your plans for pregnancy
- Earlier abdominal or pelvic surgery and current medicines
How should you plan the trip?
- Remote review of your scans to understand likely options
- Consultation in India with a gynaecologist and, if relevant, an interventional radiologist
- Agreement on a treatment and written plan
- Procedure or surgery, with a stay decided by the team
- Before flying: ask the doctor when it is safe for you to fly
- Home: follow-up scans and review with your own doctor
MedlinePlus notes that cramps are common after embolisation. Some women go home the same day and others stay overnight. Plan an attendant and accommodation near the hospital for the early days.
What should you ask the hospital?
- Which treatments are possible for my fibroids, and what are the pros and cons of each?
- How would each option affect a future pregnancy?
- Do you offer uterine artery embolisation, and who performs it?
- What happens if fibroids return after treatment?
- How will you rule out other conditions before treatment?
- When can I fly, and what follow-up will I need at home?
IndiaMedica helps you collect reports and compare written plans. The treating doctors decide what is suitable.
Questions people ask
Do all fibroids need treatment?
No. MedlinePlus explains that women without symptoms may not need treatment. Fibroids sometimes shrink during and after menopause. Treatment depends on symptoms, age, fibroid size and position, and pregnancy plans.
What are the risks of uterine artery embolisation?
MedlinePlus lists bleeding, infection, injury to an artery or the uterus, failure to relieve symptoms, possible effects on future pregnancy, loss of periods and early menopause. It also notes a risk of missing a rare cancer that can occur in fibroids. Ask your doctor about your own risks.
Can fibroids come back after treatment?
They can. MedlinePlus notes a small risk that bleeding returns after embolisation and lists options such as myomectomy, hysterectomy or repeat embolisation if needed. Ask each doctor how likely recurrence is with the option they suggest.
Sources
General information, not medical or legal advice. Rules change: confirm with the official source. Your treating specialist decides on suitability, treatment and length of stay. How we write and check.