Weighing Options for Permanent Removal of Uterine Fibroids
When uterine fibroids get to be more bothersome than the patient could tolerate, the permanent removal of the tumor is the only recourse. The only way this could be done is through surgical procedures. The time, effort, and money it takes to go for such solutions are major factors in deciding which procedure to opt for. Another concern is the possibility that the tumors could develop again or come back even after the surgery.
The Trouble with Fibroids
Fibroids are tumors that grow in the uterus as a result of hormonal imbalance and genetic reasons. They are mostly benign and asymptomatic. Those with fibroids that are asymptomatic need not worry and do not have to get any kind of treatment.
Health experts would advise women without fibroids symptoms to make changes in their diet and lifestyle to prevent their condition from getting worse. Bright colored fruits and vegetables, fish and poultry, and nuts and grains are highly recommended for those with uterine problems. These are rich in vitamins and minerals that are good for balancing hormones and maintaining heart health.
Women with fibroids that are rather large – a few centimeters in diameter – would most likely experience pain and discomfort as the growths press against the surrounding internal organs. In extreme cases, the pain becomes debilitating and is accompanied by heavy bleeding, nausea, and weakness. When this happens, it is difficult for the patients to live a normal life. Their symptoms could also snowball to other health problems and further hamper their capability to enjoy their lives. Removing the tumors is the only way to restore their quality of life and to diminish further health risks.
Going Under the Knife
Most people who opt for surgical procedures would do so with quite a bit of hesitation and apprehension. They would, of course, want to be assured that their uterine fibroids will be completely removed and would not come back after their operation. The two main surgical options are hysterectomy and myomectomy. Others surgical procedures using the latest medical technologies are available in some areas.
In a hysterectomy, the entire uterus is removed. It is, therefore, not possible for the fibroids to come back and grow again. In a myomectomy, only the tumors are removed and the uterus is retained. This is recommended for those who still want to get pregnant in the future. In this option, however, regrowth is possible.
What the Experts Say
Each case of fibroids is different and the best treatment would depend on each patient. Permanent removal of fibroids is possible with a hysterectomy operation. But, there are trade-offs that the patient will have to live with after the operation. The good news is that she will be fibroids free for the rest of her life. The bad news is that, like the removal of the tumors, it is permanent.
You cannot possibly bring your uterus back and restore it after a hysterectomy. So, if you are planning to have children or are unsure about whether or not you want to have children, this surgical procedure might not be the best treatment for you. Then again, even with a myomectomy, the uterus can get damaged which could consequently lead to fertility problems. And, you can have fibroids growths again. Make sure that you carefully weigh your options first before you make a decision on any surgical procedure for uterine fibroids and other health-related concerns.
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