It is not uncommon to deal with uterine fibroids during the childbearing years. These growths typically develop on the walls of the uterus. While some women may not even notice the fibroids, other women will experience debilitating symptoms. Some of the most common symptoms include increased urination, swelling in the lower abdomen, heavy bleeding, and pain during sex. Here are five proven ways that you can combat uterine fibroids.
Hormone Therapy
Your healthcare provider may also recommend the use of hormone therapy to help to mitigate the fibroids and stymie the growth of these masses. For instance, the use of GnRH antagonists have been shown to help with fibroid shrinkage because the hormone suppresses the body’s production of estrogen. Estrogen is responsible for encouraging the growth of these fibroids.
Alternatively, your doctor may also prescribe GnRH agonists. These hormones shrink existing fibroids. As another option, you can consider taking a medication that contains a GnRH antagonist that partners with estrogen and progesterone. Lastly, one of the latest hormone treatments involves the use of selective estrogen receptor modulators to reduce the size of the fibroids. It is important to understand the side effects of hormone therapy before deciding on this treatment.
Uterine Fibroid Embolization
When looking for uterine fibroid treatment in Memphis TN, you would be wise to consider a procedure known as Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE). This minimally invasive procedure is a cutting-edge treatment that injects polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) into the arteries that nourish the fibroid and support its growth.
By blocking the blood supply to the fibroid, the PVA causes it to shrivel and die. This procedure has been shown to be about 90% effective in eliminating the symptoms of fibroids. The procedure typically involves a one-night hospital stay. One of the primary benefits of this treatment option is that it leaves all of a woman’s reproductive system intact and functioning fully.
Myomectomy or Hysterectomy
In severe cases, you may need to consider surgery to remove the fibroids, known as a myomectomy. This is particularly true if you plan to become pregnant. However it is important to realize that the scarring could make you infertile. While many myomectomies are traditional surgeries, some women may be able to undergo the procedure laparoscopically. Most women will experience a complete relief of symptoms after a myomectomy.
Another option is to have a complete hysterectomy to remove the uterus. This is a drastic measure that should only be considered if you are done having children. Recovery from a hysterectomy is also more involved than the other treatment options.
Birth Control
Similar to using hormones to combat fibroids, your doctor may also recommend the use of birth control to get uterine fibroids under control. Birth control pills can be helpful in helping to mitigate the bleeding that often accompanies fibroids. Even low-dose birth control pills have been shown to slow the growth of existing fibroids in some women.
A hormonal intrauterine device (IUD) is another solid option if you do not like the hassle of taking a pill every day. Because not every patient is a candidate for birth control pills or an IUD, it is important to speak with a qualified healthcare provider about your options.
Treatments to Relieve Symptoms
There are some cases in which all that you need to do is manage the discomfort of the fibroids. Putting a hot water bottle on your lower abdomen can do wonders to help to ease the pain. A heating pad is another useful tool to keep in your arsenal if you frequently deal with this type of achiness. However, this can be a nuisance because you may need to perform the exercise multiple times per day.
You can also take over-the-counter pain relievers to help to mitigate the discomfort. Ibuprofen is generally a good choice when the fibroids flare up and cause you pain. If you are nearing menopause, you will be glad to know that most fibroids tend to shrink when the body goes through this process.
Conclusion
The bottom line is that you do not need to live with the pain of uterine fibroids. Exploring the different treatments available to you can go a long way in helping you to live your best life.
