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does uterine fibroid embolization affect pregnancy
21Apr

Patients often ask a very direct question: does uterine fibroid embolization affect pregnancy? The concern is valid, especially when fibroids grow large and symptoms begin to interfere with daily life and future plans. Many women live with fibroids for years, then reach a point where they want clarity about treatment and fertility at the same time.

What Is Uterine Fibroid Embolization?

To understand fertility after treatment, it helps to first answer what is uterine fibroid embolization. Uterine Fibroid Embolization, commonly called UFE, is a minimally invasive procedure that targets fibroids by cutting off their blood supply. A specialist inserts a thin catheter through a small entry point, usually in the wrist or groin, and guides it to the arteries that feed the fibroid. Tiny particles then block those vessels, which causes the fibroid to shrink over time.

This approach does not involve open surgery. It does not remove the uterus. It focuses only on the fibroid itself. Recovery stays relatively quick compared to traditional surgery, and most patients return to normal activities within days.

Does Uterine Fibroid Embolization Affect Pregnancy?

The short answer is that does uterine fibroid embolization affect pregnancy remains a nuanced question. The goal of UFE is to shrink fibroids while preserving the uterus. When performed with precision and proper imaging, the procedure protects the surrounding uterine tissue.

Fibroids themselves often cause fertility issues. They can distort the uterine cavity, block fallopian tubes, or interfere with implantation. In such cases, treating the fibroid may actually improve the chances of conception.

At the same time, every uterus responds differently. The impact of UFE on uterus depends on fibroid size, location, and the technique used during the procedure. This is why patient selection and expertise matter more than the procedure alone.

Can You Get Pregnant After UFE?

A common follow-up question is simple: can you get pregnant after UFE? Yes, many women have conceived and delivered healthy babies after the procedure. Clinical experience and real world outcomes continue to support this.

However, doctors usually recommend a careful evaluation before planning a pregnancy. The uterus needs time to heal and stabilize after fibroid shrinkage. Most specialists suggest waiting several months before trying to conceive.

Fertility outcomes depend on individual factors. Age, ovarian reserve, fibroid characteristics, and overall reproductive health all play a role. A personalized assessment provides a more accurate expectation than general statistics.

Impact of UFE on Uterus

Understanding the impact of UFE on uterus helps remove unnecessary fear. UFE targets abnormal blood flow to fibroids while maintaining circulation to healthy uterine tissue. Modern techniques use advanced imaging to ensure accuracy and safety.

In well performed procedures, the uterus retains its structure and function. The lining of the uterus continues to support normal cycles. Over time, as fibroids shrink, symptoms such as heavy bleeding and pressure improve, which also creates a healthier environment for potential pregnancy.

There are rare cases where reduced blood supply may affect parts of the uterine wall. This risk remains low when an experienced specialist performs the procedure with precision guided imaging.

Best Treatment for Fibroids If Planning Pregnancy

Choosing the best treatment for fibroids if planning pregnancy depends on preserving the uterus while effectively treating fibroids. In this case, surgery is not a good option as it often involves more disruption and recovery.

Minimally invasive options offer a more balanced approach. UFE, in particular, treats multiple or complex fibroids without cutting into the uterus, helping maintain its natural structure. With precise imaging and expertise, it manages symptoms while keeping fertility considerations intact.

A detailed consultation guides the final decision, but the preference often shifts toward solutions that treat effectively while preserving future possibilities.

Precision Matters More Than Procedure

The outcome of UFE does not depend only on the technique. It depends on how precisely the procedure is performed. Advanced imaging, 3D mapping, and targeted embolization techniques allow specialists to treat fibroids while preserving uterine health.

This level of precision reduces complications and supports better reproductive outcomes. It also explains why some patients report excellent fertility results after UFE, while others may not achieve the same. It all depends on the doctor performing the procedure and their expertise.

Realistic Expectations and Planning Ahead

Patients should approach UFE with realistic expectations and plan ahead. Discuss fertility goals with the doctor before the procedure. Ask about timing, follow-up imaging, and when it is safe to try for pregnancy. A structured plan removes uncertainty and supports better outcomes.

Contact for Consultation: 

Hotline: 03311110397

wa.me/+923302963300

wa.me/+923312597322

Dr. Imtiaz Ahmad

FAQs

Q: Can you get pregnant after UFE naturally?

A: Yes, pregnancy after UFE is possible. Many patients conceive without assisted methods once fibroids shrink and the uterine environment improves.

Q: What is UFE and is it safe?

A: UFE is a minimally invasive procedure that blocks blood flow to fibroids, causing them to shrink. It remains a safe and widely practiced option when performed by experienced specialists using modern imaging techniques.

Q: What is the impact of UFE on uterus in the long term?

A: The impact of UFE on uterus usually includes reduced fibroid size, improved symptoms, and preserved uterine structure. Most patients maintain normal menstrual function after recovery.

Q: Does uterine fibroid embolization affect pregnancy outcomes?

A: Does uterine fibroid embolization affect pregnancy outcomes depends on individual factors such as age, fibroid type, and overall reproductive health. Many women achieve successful pregnancies after the procedure, especially when fibroids previously caused fertility issues.

Q: Is UFE better than surgery for fertility?

A: UFE and surgery serve different situations. UFE is well-suited for multiple or complex fibroids, whereas surgery may benefit patients with specific types of fibroids that directly affect the uterine cavity. The choice depends on individual assessment rather than a fixed rule.

fibroids pregnancy
2Feb

Fibroids pregnancy concerns remain one of the most genuine and complex questions women raise while planning conception or continuing a pregnancy. Fibroids and adenomyosis are common, but their impact on fertility and pregnancy outcomes can be significant, especially when multiple fibroids are present. With proper diagnosis, structured follow‑ups, and expert‑led management, many women still achieve successful pregnancies, but this journey requires precision, vigilance, and specialised care.

Understanding How Fibroids Affect Pregnancy

Fibroids, also known as leiomyoma, develop from the muscular layer of the uterus. Their effect on pregnancy depends on their number, size, and location. When multiple fibroids occupy the uterus, they behave much like furniture crowded into a living room, reducing space and disturbing normal function. In such cases, early miscarriage can occur because the uterus may not be able to accommodate a growing pregnancy properly. This is one of the important but often overlooked causes of infertility and repeated pregnancy loss.

If pregnancy continues despite multiple fibroids, the situation becomes more complex. As pregnancy hormones rise, fibroids tend to grow at the same speed as the baby. In some cases, two fibroids and a baby may appear similar to a triplet pregnancy on imaging. This rapid and parallel growth can increase the risk of miscarriage, early labour, or complications later in pregnancy.

Why Timing and Planning Matter

Women frequently ask when they should try to conceive after fibroid treatment. Specialists generally recommend waiting at least six months after treatment, allowing leiomyomas to shrink completely and the uterus to recover. In cases involving larger or multiple fibroids, doctors may advise waiting up to one year. This careful planning reduces the risk of early miscarriage and improves implantation and pregnancy stability.

In fibroids pregnancy planning, patience is essential. Allowing the uterus adequate time to heal plays a critical role in long‑term maternal and fetal safety.

The Types of Uterine Fibroids and Their Role

The types of uterine fibroids influence pregnancy outcomes differently:

  • Intramural leiomyoma grows within the uterine wall and can reduce uterine elasticity.
  • Submucosal leiomyoma grows toward the uterine cavity and may interfere with implantation or increase miscarriage risk.
  • Subserosal leiomyoma grows outward and often affects surrounding organs, though it can still complicate delivery.

Doctors carefully assess the type and distribution of leiomyomas before advising on pregnancy timing or monitoring strategies.

When Pregnancy Becomes High Risk

If a woman with multiple fibroids becomes pregnant, the pregnancy is automatically considered high risk. Such patients must be managed by experienced high‑risk gynecologists. Frequent monitoring is essential,often more frequent than routine pregnancies. Instead of monthly visits, women may need to be reviewed twice a month, and weekly visits may be required in the later stages of pregnancy.

Fibroids can trigger early labour, sometimes leading to delivery at seven months instead of full term. In these situations, early delivery may be necessary to protect the life of the baby, followed by neonatal intensive care and incubator support.

Can Fibroids Affect Baby Growth and Development?

A common question is whether fibroids affect baby growth. The answer is yes, in some cases. Large or multiple leiomyomas can restrict space, divert nutrition, and interfere with normal development. This may result in growth restriction, limb shortening, or changes in head shape. Fibroids can also alter fetal positioning, making normal delivery difficult or impossible.

Because fibroids and the growing baby compete for space and blood supply, specialists closely monitor fetal morphology and growth through imaging and diagnostic tests. In certain cases, procedures such as amniocentesis may be required to assess fetal wellbeing, congenital abnormalities, or signs of distress.

Managing Fibroids Safely During Pregnancy

Doctors generally avoid surgical intervention during pregnancy unless an emergency arises. Instead, management focuses on close observation, hydration, pain control, and continuous assessment by skilled teams. Many women require planned or early caesarean sections, as normal delivery with fibroids can pose serious risks.

While doctors prefer to allow a trial of normal delivery when possible, safety remains the priority. Fibroids may obstruct the birth canal or position the baby unfavourably, making surgical delivery the safest option.

Advanced Treatment and Long‑Term Confidence

Before pregnancy, advanced image‑guided techniques allow leiomyomas to be treated accurately, reducing blood supply and promoting shrinkage while preserving fertility. When treatment is completed thoroughly and documented properly, recurrence is rare.

Clinical experience since the late 1990s confirms that complete, well‑planned treatment reduces the need for repeat procedures. In fibroids pregnancy cases, treatment alone is not enough; consistent follow‑ups and coordinated care between specialists are essential.

Conclusion

Fibroids and adenomyosis can significantly affect fertility, pregnancy progression, and delivery outcomes, especially when multiple fibroids are present. With expert‑led care, high‑risk pregnancy management, and advanced treatment strategies, many women still achieve safe pregnancies and healthy births. Precision, frequent monitoring, and specialist involvement make all the difference.

Consult with Dr Imtiaz for fibroids, adenomyosis, or fertility‑preserving therapy alternatives. His approach follows internationally recognised standards, emphasising patient safety, long‑term outcomes, and evidence‑based care.

Contact for Consultation

Hotline: 03311110397
WhatsApp: wa.me/+923302963300
wa.me/+923312597322
Dr. Imtiaz Ahmad

Frequently Asked Questions

Can fibroids disappear completely after treatment?

They usually shrink significantly after complete treatment. When managed and documented properly, recurrence is rarely seen.

What are the most common signs and symptoms of uterine fibroids during pregnancy?

Pain, pressure, discomfort, and early labour symptoms are commonly reported and require close monitoring.

Can fibroids affect baby growth in late pregnancy?

Yes, in some cases fibroids can restrict growth, alter morphology, or divert nutrition. Regular monitoring helps detect issues early.

How soon can pregnancy be planned after fibroid treatment?

Most specialists recommend waiting six months. Larger or multiple fibroids may require up to one year.

Why are frequent follow‑ups necessary in fibroids pregnancy?

Such pregnancies are high risk. Frequent visits, imaging, and testing help protect both maternal health and fetal development.

17Oct

Understanding the difference between fibroids and cysts is essential for women’s reproductive health. While both may cause similar symptoms, their origins, structure, and treatment options are very different. Therefore, recognising how they differ helps with early diagnosis, proper treatment, and better long-term outcomes.

What Are Fibroids?

Uterine fibroids, also called leiomyomas, are non-cancerous growths that form within or on the uterus. They are made of muscle and connective tissue. Furthermore, fibroids can be as small as a seed or as large as a melon, sometimes causing noticeable swelling in the abdomen.

Fibroids are classified into three main types based on where they grow:

  • Subserosal fibroids: On the outer surface of the uterus.
  • Intramural fibroids: Inside the muscular wall.
  • Submucosal fibroids: Inside the uterine cavity.

What Are Cysts?

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop inside or on the surface of the ovaries. Most ovarian cysts are harmless and form naturally during a woman’s menstrual cycle. In fact, many even disappear on their own. However, some may become large, burst, or twist, which requires quick medical care.

Common types of ovarian cysts include:

  • Functional cysts: Appear during ovulation and often go away without treatment.
  • Dermoid cysts: Contain tissue such as hair or skin and may grow over time.
  • Endometriomas: Caused by endometriosis, when uterine tissue grows outside the uterus.
  • Cystadenomas: Develop on the ovarian surface and can become quite large.

Uterine Fibroids vs Ovarian Cysts: Key Differences

Understanding the key differences between uterine fibroids and ovarian cysts helps with accurate and early diagnosis. Fibroids are solid and grow in the uterus, while cysts are fluid-filled and form on the ovaries. Additionally, fibroids grow slowly and rarely go away on their own. In contrast, most cysts form as part of the normal ovulation cycle and often shrink naturally.

Moreover, early symptoms and the regions of pain are also different for both of them. Fibroids cause heavy periods and pelvic pressure, but cysts tend to cause one-sided abdominal pain or bloating. Therefore, these patterns are essential to determine the difference between fibroids and cysts.

Symptoms of Fibroids and Cysts

Fibroids and cysts share some symptoms; however, there are key differences.

Common fibroid symptoms:

  • Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding.
  • Pelvic pressure or pain.
  • Frequent urination.
  • Constipation.
  • Lower back or leg pain.

Common ovarian cyst symptoms:

  • Sudden or dull pain on one side of the pelvis.
  • Bloating or abdominal fullness.
  • Pain during intercourse.
  • Irregular periods.
  • Nausea or vomiting, especially if the cyst ruptures.

For proper diagnosis, a pelvic ultrasound is the most reliable tool for confirming the difference between fibroids and cysts.

Causes of Fibroids

The exact cause of fibroids is still unknown, but several factors contribute. For instance:

  • Hormones: Oestrogen and progesterone promote fibroid growth.
  • Genetics: A family history raises the risk.
  • Age: Most common between ages 30 and 50.
  • Lifestyle: Obesity and high-fat diets may increase the chance of developing fibroids.

Causes of Ovarian Cysts

Ovarian cysts usually result from natural hormonal changes, but other causes include:

  • Hormonal imbalance: Disrupted ovulation or fertility treatments.
  • Pregnancy: Some cysts form early in pregnancy and may stay for months.
  • Pelvic infections: Severe infections can spread to the ovaries.
  • Endometriosis: Can cause endometriomas.

Hence, understanding uterine fibroids vs ovarian cysts key differences ensures accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

Which Is More Dangerous – Cyst or Fibroid?

A common question often presented is, “Which is more dangerous cyst or fibroid?” In most cases, both are benign. However, cysts can become an emergency if they burst or twist, which may cause internal bleeding and sharp pain. On the other hand, fibroids rarely pose an immediate danger but can lead to heavy bleeding, anaemia, or fertility issues.

Therefore, the final decision to determine how dangerous the cyst or fibroid is made by doctors after considering the size, symptoms, and overall health of the patient.

Do Ovarian Cysts Affect Fertility?

A common question is, do ovarian cysts affect fertility? Most cysts, especially functional ones, do not. However, cysts linked to conditions like endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can cause complications in conceiving.

Additionally, large or recurring cysts may harm ovarian tissue or disturb hormone levels. Therefore, when evaluating whether ovarian cysts affect fertility, doctors look at the cyst type and then present the final verdict.

What Size of Ovarian Cyst Is Dangerous?

Knowing what size of ovarian cyst is dangerous is vital for safe and early management. Often, small cysts under 5 cm go away naturally. Whereas cysts larger than 10 cm have a higher risk of twisting or bursting and may need surgery.

Thus, regular ultrasounds help track the cyst’s growth. Moreover, if pain worsens or the cyst persists, further evaluation is required to ensure timely treatment.

Diagnosis and Evaluation

To tell the difference between fibroids and cysts, doctors use several diagnostic methods, including:

  • Pelvic exam: To detect masses or enlargement.
  • Ultrasound: To identify whether the growth is solid or fluid-filled.
  • MRI: To attain detailed images for treatment planning.
  • Blood tests: To check for hormone levels and tumour markers.

Overall, accurate diagnosis allows healthcare providers to create a personalised treatment plan and avoid unnecessary interventions.

Treatment for Fibroids

Overall, the treatment depends on fibroid size, symptoms, and future pregnancy plans:

  • Medication: Hormone therapy to reduce bleeding and shrink fibroids.
  • Non-invasive treatment: MRI-guided ultrasound to destroy fibroids.
  • Minimally invasive surgery: Uterine artery embolisation or myomectomy.
  • Surgery: Hysterectomy for severe cases.

Furthermore, healthy habits, such as a balanced diet and regular exercise, may also help manage fibroid growth effectively.

Treatment for Ovarian Cysts

Primarily, the treatment for ovarian cysts varies depending on their size and type:

  • Watchful waiting: Many cysts go away on their own.
  • Surgery: Laparoscopy or open surgery for large or persistent cysts.

Most cysts usually resolve without treatment. Therefore, keeping a close check on the size of cysts is essential for proper management and tracking. Additionally, following up with regular ultrasounds ensures that any changes are identified early.

Prevention and Lifestyle Guidance

Although fibroids and cysts cannot always be prevented, adopting a healthy lifestyle can significantly lower the risk. To begin with, maintaining a nutritious diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains supports hormonal balance and overall wellness.

Additionally, staying active and keeping a healthy weight can help regulate hormone levels, which may reduce the chance of abnormal growths.

Furthermore, it is wise to limit caffeine and alcohol consumption, as excessive intake can influence hormonal activity. Likewise, managing stress effectively through mindfulness, relaxation techniques, or regular exercise plays an important role in reproductive health.
Most importantly, visiting your gynaecologist regularly ensures that any unusual changes are detected early.

Conclusion

In conclusion, knowing the difference between fibroids and cysts helps women take control of their reproductive health. While both are common and usually harmless, still early diagnosis and proper treatment are essential. Furthermore, by understanding the difference between fibroids and cysts, monitoring symptoms, and seeking timely medical help, complications can be avoided. Ultimately, staying informed and proactive ensures better health outcomes and peace of mind.

5Mar

The intricate dance between uterine fibroids and weight gain is anything but simple, marked by a blend of both direct influences and indirect effects. Below is an insightful exploration of this complex relationship.

1. Direct Physical Effects

Abdominal Expansion: Large fibroids can transform the uterus into a prominent figure, leading to a rounded abdomen reminiscent of pregnancy. This is due to the tangible mass of fibroids rather than an accumulation of excess fat.
Added Bulk: In some cases, particularly with exceptionally large fibroids weighing several pounds, there can be a noticeable increase in overall body weight, although this scenario isn’t typical.

2. Indirect Influences:

Anemia and Energy Drain: The heavy menstrual bleeding associated with fibroids can lead to anemia, which in turn drains energy and curbs physical activity, potentially resulting in weight accumulation over time.
Bloating and Digestive Discomfort: The pressure exerted by fibroids on the intestines or bladder may cause bloating or urinary retention, creating the illusion of weight gain.

3. Psychological and Behavioral Impacts:

Persistent pain and stress from fibroids can sap motivation for exercise or drive emotional eating—a correlation that is still being evaluated.

4. Medical Insights and Clarifications:

Weight Gain vs. Abdominal Distension: It’s essential to differentiate between the “weight gain” mentioned, which often refers to abdominal distension from fibroid growth, and genuine fat gain, which involves a constellation of factors including diet, genetics, and metabolism.
Statistics Range (20-80%): This wide spectrum likely mingles physical mass effects with indirect influences. Further research is needed to clarify these metrics.

5. Treatment Paths Worth Considering:

Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE): This non-surgical technique effectively shrinks fibroids by cutting off their blood supply. It can alleviate troublesome symptoms like heavy bleeding and pelvic pressure, paving the way for patients to reclaim their active lifestyles.

6. Alternative Therapies:

Options such as medication, myomectomy, or hysterectomy exist, guided by the severity of fibroids and individual patient choices.

Final Thoughts:

Fibroids may lead to noticeable abdominal swelling, and in rare cases, significant weight gain due to their size. However, indirect consequences like fatigue from anemia can also play a role in weight changes. This article underscores the advantages of UFE but should be careful not to overstate fibroids’ contribution to obesity. A comprehensive approach, including a thoughtful consultation with healthcare professionals, is vital for tailored care.

If you’re grappling with fibroid-related symptoms, seeking a medical assessment can open the door to various treatment options, ensuring that all factors contributing to any weight changes are properly addressed.

For more information and guidance, feel free to contact us. ‎03311110397
wa.me/+923302963300 |  wa.me/+923312597322
-OMI Hospital, 89/1 Depot Lines, MA Jinnah Rd, Karachi. (https://maps.app.goo.gl/g98JKgzfjRkiy5K66 )
-Farooq Hospital-DHA Avenue Mall, Main Ghazi Rd, DHA, Lahore, Punjab 54000, Pakistan (https://maps.app.goo.gl/FFu76EyV5cCVxBV37)

which size of fibroid is dangerous
23Jan

Fibroids are noncancerous growths that develop in the uterus, affecting millions of women worldwide. While most fibroids are benign and don’t cause noticeable symptoms, some can lead to complications, prompting the need for medical intervention. One crucial factor in assessing the risk associated with fibroids is their size.

Understanding Fibroids:

Fibroids are abnormal growths of muscle tissue in the uterus. They can vary in size, ranging from as small as a seed to as large as a grapefruit or more. Fibroids can develop inside the uterus, on its outer surface, or within the uterine wall. Although the exact cause of fibroids remains unclear, factors such as genetics, hormonal fluctuations, and pregnancy can contribute to their formation.

After diagnosing fibroids, the first thing a doctor discusses is the size of the fibroids. Why is the size of fibroids important to know? There are multiple reasons for it.

  • The course of treatment for fibroids depends on their size.
  • The location and size of fibroids are also crucial in predicting potential complications. For instance, there has been a reported case where emergency surgery was required for a woman with a large fibroid causing respiratory problems.
  • Additionally, the size of the fibroid can serve as an alarm for determining when treatment should be initiated. It plays a significant role in guiding healthcare professionals toward the most appropriate and timely interventions.

Assessing Fibroid Size:

The fibroid size chart varies globally, with different centers employing diverse methods to characterize uterine size. Physicians may measure fibroids in centimeters, categorizing them as small, medium, or large.

  • Small fibroid: Less than 3 cm in length (Comparable to the size of a pea or cherry)
  • Medium fibroid: 3 to 6 cm (Similar in size to a plum or large orange)
  • Large fibroid: 6 cm or more (Resembling the size of a grapefruit and beyond)

Some physicians define fibroid size based on obstetric weeks, where a small fibroid corresponds to the 4th obstetric week, a medium fibroid to weeks 10 to 11, and a large fibroid to weeks 12 to 16.

Which size of fibroid is dangerous in mm?

A common misconception is that the larger the fibroids, the more serious complications they will cause. However, it’s important to note that while larger fibroids can cause discomfort, they are not always guaranteed to pose problems. Similarly, a smaller fibroid doesn’t automatically signify any cause for concern. So, there is no straight forward answer to this question: which size of fibroid is dangerous.

How much does a 7 cm fibroid weigh?

While fibroids don’t directly cause weight gain, they contribute to overall body weight due to their mass. The weight of a 7 cm fibroid can vary, but generally, larger fibroids, including those over 6 cm, can weigh up to 25 pounds. Consequently, women with larger fibroids may experience heaviness in the lower abdomen and a protruding belly due to the presence of a substantial fibroid in the uterus.

When should you be concerned about fibroid size?

While many women with fibroids never experience any symptoms, the size of a fibroid can become a concern when it leads to the following issues:

Symptoms: Larger fibroids can cause symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain or pressure, frequent urination, and backache. The size and location of the fibroid play a role in the severity of these symptoms.

Complications during Pregnancy: Depending on their size and location, fibroids can lead to complications during pregnancy and childbirth. Larger fibroids may obstruct the birth canal or interfere with the optimal positioning of the baby.

Impact on Fertility: In some cases, larger fibroids can affect fertility. They may block the fallopian tubes, interfere with the implantation of the embryo, or disrupt the blood flow to the uterus.

Degeneration: Larger fibroids are more prone to degeneration, a process in which the central part of the fibroid outgrows its blood supply, causing pain and sometimes requiring medical attention.

Rapid Growth: If a fibroid undergoes rapid growth, it may indicate malignancy, although fibroids are overwhelmingly benign. Any sudden increase in size should be thoroughly evaluated by a healthcare professional.

What is the solution?

The treatment of fibroids depends on the location and size of fibroids. Doctor can recommend one of the following:

Watchful Waiting:

Small, asymptomatic fibroids may not require immediate treatment. Regular monitoring through pelvic exams or imaging studies (ultrasound, MRI) can be done to track any changes.

Surgery:

For larger and heavier fibroids causing significant symptoms, surgery is often recommended. The two primary surgical options are myomectomy and hysterectomy.

Myomectomy is a uterus-saving procedure in which only the diseased part, typically the fibroids, is removed, leaving the rest of the uterus intact. On the other hand, hysterectomy involves the complete removal of the uterus. This procedure is considered more extensive, as it eliminates the entire uterus, preventing the possibility of future pregnancies.

The choice between myomectomy and hysterectomy depends on various factors, including the severity of symptoms, the desire for future fertility, and the overall health of the patient. This decision is typically made in consultation with the patient and their healthcare provider.

Uterine Artery Embolization:

This is a minimally invasive procedure initially used for the smaller fibroids but now also for the large ones. During the procedure, a catheter is guided through blood vessels to the uterine arteries, where small particles are injected to block blood flow to the fibroids. This process aims to reduce the size of the fibroids and alleviate associated symptoms, offering an alternative to surgical options.

Dr. Imtiaz Ahmed is the pioneer of this procedure in Pakistan. Email now at info@drimtiazahmad.com. Follow us on Instagram @Profdr_imtiaz_ahmad for daily updates.