Fibroids, non-cancerous growths in the uterus, affect millions of women worldwide, causing symptoms like heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and pressure. Over the years, medical science has made significant strides in understanding and treating fibroids. Among the various treatment options available, endometrial ablation has emerged as the most preferred choice for many patients. In this blog, let us explore the latest updates on fibroid treatment and probe into why ablation is increasingly becoming the go-to solution.
Understanding Fibroids:
Fibroids, also known as uterine leiomyomas, are benign tumors that develop in the muscular wall of the uterus. They vary in size, ranging from tiny seedlings that are undetectable to the naked eye to large growths that can distort the shape of the uterus. While the exact cause of fibroids remains unknown, factors such as hormonal imbalances, genetic predisposition, and estrogen levels play significant roles in their development.
Treatment Options for Fibroids:
Watchful Waiting: In cases where fibroids are small and asymptomatic, doctors may recommend a “watchful waiting” approach, monitoring the growth of the fibroids over time without immediate intervention.
Medications: Hormonal medications, such as gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists (GnRH agonists) and oral contraceptives, can help manage symptoms like heavy bleeding and pelvic pain by regulating hormone levels.
Surgical Interventions: Surgical options for fibroids include myomectomy (removal of fibroids while preserving the uterus) and hysterectomy (removal of the uterus). While effective, these procedures may not be suitable for women who wish to preserve their fertility or avoid major surgery.
The Rise of Endometrial Ablation:
Endometrial ablation has gained prominence as a minimally invasive procedure for treating fibroids, particularly for women who experience heavy menstrual bleeding.
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA):
Radiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive procedure that utilizes thermal energy to destroy fibroid tissue. During RFA, a thin needle-like device is inserted into the fibroid under ultrasound guidance. Radiofrequency energy is then delivered to heat and destroy the fibroid tissue, leading to shrinkage and symptom relief. RFA offers several advantages, including precise targeting of fibroids, shorter procedure times, and faster recovery compared to traditional surgery.
Minimally Invasive: Endometrial ablation is typically performed as an outpatient procedure using minimally invasive techniques. It involves accessing the uterus through the vagina, eliminating the need for abdominal incisions. This results in shorter recovery times, reduced pain, and lower risk of complications compared to traditional surgery.
Preserves Uterus: Unlike hysterectomy, which involves removing the entire uterus, ablation allows women to preserve their uterus while addressing symptoms associated with fibroids. This is particularly beneficial for women who wish to maintain their fertility or avoid the physical and emotional impacts of losing their uterus.
Effective Symptom Relief: Endometrial ablation has been shown to significantly reduce or eliminate symptoms like heavy menstrual bleeding and pelvic pain in many women with fibroids. Studies have demonstrated high rates of patient satisfaction and improved quality of life following ablation procedures.
Rapid Recovery: Most women can resume their normal activities within a few days to a week after endometrial ablation. The procedure causes minimal disruption to daily life, allowing patients to return to work and other activities sooner compared to traditional surgery.
Fibroids can significantly impact a woman’s quality of life, but advancements in medical technology have provided effective treatment options, with endometrial ablation emerging as a preferred choice for many patients. Its minimally invasive nature, ability to preserve the uterus, and effectiveness in relieving symptoms make ablation a compelling option for women seeking relief from fibroids.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of fibroids, consult with our doctors at Avis Vascular Center who have successfully treated several hundreds of patients with fibroids, performing ablation procedures with exceptional outcomes.