A
uterine fibroid is a benign (non-cancerous) tumor that originates from the smooth muscle layer and the accompanying
connective tissue of the uterus.
Most fibroids do not require treatment unless they are causing symptoms. After menopause fibroids shrink and it is unusual for fibroids to cause problems.
Symptomatic uterine fibroids can be treated by:
medication to control symptoms
medication aimed at shrinking tumours
ultrasound fibroid destruction
various surgically aided methods to reduce blood supply of fibroids
myomectomy or radio frequency ablation
hysterectomy
A number of medications are in use to control symptoms caused by fibroids. NSAIDs can be used to reduce painful menses.
Oral contraceptive pills are prescribed to reduce
uterine bleeding and cramps.Anemia may have to be treated with iron supplementation.
Levonorgestrel intrauterine devices are highly effective in limiting menstrual blood flow. Side effects are typically very moderate because the levonorgestrel (a progestin) is released in low concentration locally. There is now substantial evidence that Levongestrel-IUDs provide good symptomatic relief for women with fibroid.
Danazol is an effective treatment to shrink fibroids and control symptoms.
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogs cause temporary regression of fibroids by decreasing estrogen levels.