Question

What treatment options are available to shrink my fibroids?

Answer

Only about one-third of these women have symptoms severe enough that fibroids need to be treated. And, fibroids often shrink on their own during the menopausal transition, as a woman’s estrogen levels decline. For that reason, depending on the fibroid’s size, growth rate, and discomfort caused, a woman may consider “watchful waiting” rather than immediate intervention. Watchful waiting involves monitoring fibroids during the woman’s annual pelvic exam to see if they are growing or causing symptoms. If changes occur, the woman may want to consider scheduling more frequent exams, using ultrasound to monitor the fibroids’ growth, and/or pursuing treatment options. For example, if fibroids cause severe menstrual bleeding, the National Women's Health Network recommends that women check in regularly with their health care provider to rule out other, potentially dangerous sources of bleeding. Treatment options for fibroids vary, depending on their size and number as well as the woman’s health, medical history, tolerance for specific treatments, and desire for pregnancy. These treatment options include medications that target hormones that regulate your menstrual cycle, ultrasound surgery to destroy fibroids, and slightly more invasive surgical removal such as a hysterectomy. In any case, women should work with their

Treatment options for fibroids vary, depending on their size and number as well as the woman’s health, medical history, tolerance for specific treatments, and desire for pregnancy. These treatment options include medications that target hormones that regulate your menstrual cycle, ultrasound surgery to destroy fibroids, and slightly more invasive surgical removal such as a hysterectomy. In any case, women should work with their healthcare provider to evaluate the fibroids’ status and decide when, and if, intervention is desirable and/or necessary.

The NWHN encourages women who have been recommended to pursue a particular treatment option for fibroids to take time and learn about all of the treatment options available, so they can make an informed decision about their health care needs.

Check out NWHN’s consumer health information on fibroids to learn more about fibroids and the different treatment options available.

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