Uterine Fibroids Treatment | 15+ Yrs. Experienced Lady Doctor

Diagnosis of Uterine Fibroids

During diagnosis, the doctor asks about the medical history and physically examines the fibroids. To identify the number of fibroids, size of the fibroids, and exact location of fibroid doctor suggests a few diagnostic tests. Some common diagnostic tests are as follows:

• Ultrasound scan of the pelvis: It is an imaging test that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce real-time images. The doctor usually recommends it to determine the exact location of fibroids.
• Abdominal and pelvic CT scan: It is a non-invasive procedure that provides more details of soft tissues, blood vessels, and internal organs. 
• Pelvic MRI scan: This medical test uses a powerful magnetic field to produce images of soft tissues, bones, organs, and all other internal structures of the abdomen and pelvis.
• Blood tests: In blood tests the doctor recommends a Complete blood count (CBC) and a determination of estrogen/progesterone levels in the blood. A blood test also helps in identifying any underlying health condition that may complicate the treatment procedure.
• Hysteroscopy: This test is useful in detecting submucosal leiomyomas. This procedure involves placing a probe through the cervix to examine the uterus cavity.
• Hysterosalpingography: This test is usually recommended for individuals with infertility. In this procedure, the structure of the uterus and fallopian tubes are studied by using a dye and X-ray images.
• Open biopsy of tumor: A tissue biopsy is performed and sent to a laboratory for a pathological examination, which examines the biopsied sample under a microscope. After putting together clinical findings, and microscope findings, the pathologist arrives at a definitive diagnosis.

Treatment Procedure for Uterine Fibroids

The treatment option for uterine fibroids depends on various factors such as the severity of the signs and symptoms, location of fibroids, age of the woman, whether the woman is pregnant or not, and the woman’s desire to have children in the future. Mainly, there are two treatment options for uterine fibroids, medication and surgery. 

• Medical treatment for uterine fibroids: The doctor may prescribe certain medications to shrink the fibroids. These medications may not necessarily eliminate them. The common medications include:
• Gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists (GnRH): These drugs temporarily mimic menopause in order to treat fibroids by preventing the synthesis of estrogen and progesterone. As a result, the fibroids diminish, the anemia usually gets better, and the menstruation ceases. However, these drugs should not be taken for longer than three to six months at a time because they can cause bone loss if taken long term.
• Tranexamic acid: This class of drugs, such as Lysteda or Cyklokapron, can help prevent heavy menstruation but should only be used on days when considerable blood loss is expected.
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Despite not being hormonal treatments, these medications may be quite successful at reducing pain, but they have no effect on reducing bleeding caused by fibroids.