Everything You Need to Know About Fibroid Surgery

Fibroid surgery is a common procedure performed to remove fibroids, which are non-cancerous growths that can develop in a woman’s uterus. Here, we’ll cover everything you need to know about fibroid surgery, including the types of surgery, recovery time, and possible risks.

Introduction:

Fibroids, also known as leiomyomas, are non-cancerous growths that can develop in a woman’s uterus. They can range in size from tiny, seed-like growths to large, bulky masses. Although many women with fibroids do not experience any symptoms, others may experience heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and difficulty getting pregnant.

In some cases, fibroids may need to be removed through surgery. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about fibroid surgery, including the types of surgery, recovery time, and possible risks.

Types of Fibroid Surgery:

Myomectomy: A myomectomy is a surgical procedure that removes fibroids while leaving the uterus intact. This type of surgery is often recommended for those who want to preserve their fertility or for those with small to medium-sized fibroids. There are several ways to perform a myomectomy, including:

Laparoscopic Myomectomy: A minimally invasive procedure that involves making small incisions in the abdomen and using a laparoscope to remove the fibroids.

Hysteroscopic Myomectomy: A minimally invasive procedure that involves inserting a hysteroscope through the vagina and cervix to remove fibroids that are inside the uterus.

Abdominal Myomectomy: A more invasive procedure that involves making a larger incision in the abdomen to remove larger fibroids.

Hysterectomy: A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure that involves removing the uterus. This type of surgery is often recommended for those who are not concerned about preserving their fertility or for those with large or multiple fibroids. There are several ways to perform a hysterectomy, including:

Abdominal Hysterectomy: A more invasive procedure that involves making a large incision in the abdomen to remove the uterus.

Vaginal Hysterectomy: A less invasive procedure that involves making a small incision in the vagina to remove the uterus.

Laparoscopic Hysterectomy: A minimally invasive procedure that involves making small incisions in the abdomen and using a laparoscope to remove the uterus.

What to Expect Before, During, and After Fibroid Surgery:

Before the Procedure:

Before undergoing fibroid surgery, your doctor will likely perform a physical exam, pelvic exam, and imaging tests to determine the size and location of your fibroids. Depending on the type of surgery you are having, you may also need to prepare your bowel or bladder or avoid eating or drinking for a certain amount of time before the procedure.

During the Procedure:

During fibroid surgery, you will be given anesthesia to make you sleep and prevent you from feeling pain. The type of anesthesia used will depend on the type of surgery you are having. The procedure itself can take several hours, depending on the size and number of fibroids being removed. Your surgeon will make incisions in your abdomen or vagina and use surgical tools to remove the fibroids or uterus.

After the Procedure:

After fibroid surgery, you will likely need to stay in the hospital for a few days to recover. You may experience pain and discomfort, and your doctor will prescribe pain medication to manage these symptoms. You may also need to take antibiotics to prevent infection and wear a temporary urinary catheter to help you urinate. Depending on the type of surgery you had, you may need to avoid strenuous activities or sexual intercourse for several weeks.

Conclusion:

Fibroid surgery is a common procedure performed to remove fibroids from the uterus. Your doctor can help you decide if fibroid surgery is the right choice for your individual situation. With the right treatment, you can manage your fibroid symptoms and get back to living your life.