Key Takeaways
- Not all uterine fibroids require treatment
- Treatment depends on your symptoms, fibroid size, location and future pregnancy plans
- Medication can help manage symptoms but does not remove fibroids
- Minimally invasive and surgical treatments are available when needed
When Is Uterine Fibroid Treatment Needed?
Many fibroids are discovered during a routine examination or ultrasound scan and do not cause symptoms. In these cases, treatment may not be necessary, and your doctor may recommend regular monitoring instead.
Treatment is more likely to be recommended if fibroids cause:
- Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
- Pelvic pain or pressure
- Frequent urination or difficulty emptying the bladder
- Constipation due to pressure on the bowel
- Pain during intercourse
- Fertility problems or recurrent miscarriage
- Rapid enlargement of the fibroid or uncertainty about the diagnosis
What Are the Treatment Options for Uterine Fibroids?
Observation and Monitoring
Medications
- Medication to reduce heavy menstrual bleeding
- Pain relief for pelvic discomfort
- Hormonal medication to temporarily shrink fibroids before surgery in selected cases
Myomectomy
A myomectomy removes fibroids while preserving the uterus. It is commonly recommended for women who wish to retain their fertility or uterus. The procedure may be performed hysteroscopically, laparoscopically (keyhole surgery) or through an open abdominal approach, depending on the size, number and location of the fibroids. Fibroids may recur after surgery.
Hysterectomy
A hysterectomy removes the uterus and permanently eliminates fibroids. It may be recommended for women with large, multiple or recurrent fibroids, particularly if childbearing is complete. The procedure may be performed laparoscopically or through an open abdominal approach, depending on the individual case.
How Is the Right Treatment Chosen?
There is no single treatment that is suitable for every woman. Your doctor will recommend an approach based on several factors, including:
- The severity of your symptoms
- The size, number and location of the fibroids
- Whether you wish to become pregnant naturally or are planning fertility treatment such as IVF
- Your age and overall health
- Previous treatments or surgery
- Whether there are features that require further assessment
A personalised assessment helps ensure treatment supports both your current wellbeing and your long-term reproductive goals.
Personalised Care for Uterine Fibroids
Uterine fibroids vary widely in their size, location and impact on daily life. While some can be safely monitored, others require treatment to relieve symptoms, preserve fertility or improve quality of life. An accurate assessment is the first step towards selecting the most appropriate treatment.
At the Health & Fertility Centre for Women in Singapore, care for uterine fibroids is provided under the care of Senior Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist Dr Kelly Loi. With treatment tailored to your symptoms, reproductive goals and overall health, you can make informed decisions with confidence. Arrange a consultation to discuss the most appropriate treatment plan for your individual needs today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Uterine Fibroid Treatment
Yes. Some fibroids may affect fertility depending on their size and location, particularly if they distort the uterine cavity. Many women still achieve successful pregnancies with appropriate assessment and treatment.
Yes. Fibroids may recur after a myomectomy because only the existing fibroids are removed while the uterus is preserved. A hysterectomy is the only treatment that permanently prevents fibroids from returning because the uterus is removed.
In many women, fibroids become smaller after menopause as hormone levels naturally decline. However, not all fibroids shrink significantly, and persistent symptoms, enlarging fibroids or new symptoms after menopause should be assessed by a specialist.
