There is a lot of information out there about different ways on how to shrink fibroids, including holistic ways, hormonal treatments, minimally invasive treatments, and full medical procedures.
At Viva Eve, we are glad to offer minimally invasive but highly effective options like UFE (Uterine Fibroid Embolization). Shrinking fibroids the right way means consulting your fibroids specialist, evaluating your unique experience with fibroids, and ultimately selecting the option that is best for you.
Medical procedures for fibroids
There are medical procedures such as a hysterectomy or a myomectomy which either involve removing the uterus, parts of the uterus, or removing the fibroid growths. These are usually not the first options that our specialists at Viva Eve look to because of how they are more invasive procedures that require longer recovery times. However, sometimes they are the best option for treating fibroids and both can offer great relief in the long run. This is especially true if your fibroids are severe, recurring, or if they are post-menopausal.
Myomectomy
A myomectomy surgically removes fibroids from the uterus while leaving the uterus intact. If the fibroids are on the inner lining of the uterus, this procedure is more accessable and effective and is a viable option if you are planning on getting pregnant in the future. There are different variations of myomectomy procedures. Each type of a myomectomy varies in recovery times and how the procedure is performed. Talk to your specialist about the difference between an open myomectomy, a vaginal myomectomy, a laparoscopic myomectomy, and LAAM (Laparoscopic Assisted Abdominal Myomectomy). The latter is considered to be a minimally invasive procedure.
Hysterectomy
Having a hysterectomy is a big decision. It is the removal of the uterus either in part, or in whole. Your Viva Eve specialist will likely explore other options for how to shrink fibroids before pursuing this option. If you do talk about this option with your specialist, learn as much about hysterectomies as you can before making a final decision. Ask them about the three different types of hysterectomy procedures (partial, total, and radical) and which one they feel is the most necessary for you.
Minimally invasive procedures for fibroids
One of the most effective and widely used procedure is UFE. How long does it take fibroids to shrink after embolization? Within about two months after undergoing embolization for fibroids you should notice your symptoms lessening. UFE is one of the options of fibroid treatment that we are proud to offer at Viva Eve, but it’s not the only option for minimally invasive treatments.
Uterine Fibroid Embolization
Embolization for fibroids helps to shrink fibroids without removing the uterus and without a major medical procedure. UFE is an effective method used for shrinking fibroids. The procedure cuts off blood supply to the fibroids which causes them to shrink and allows for you to pursue a fertility plan after you are healed. You can also ask your doctor how long does it take fibroids to shrink after embolization in a case like yours.
Operative Hysteroscopy
Operative hysteroscopy is a procedure that uses a tube which enters through the vagina to remove fibroids or other cysts, growths, IUD’s, or adhesions. This procedure can be performed with your Ob/Gyn and doesn’t involve any open surgeries. Usually, this procedure has a quick recovery time and allows you to return to your regular life the following day.
Hormonal Treatment
Another minimally invasive procedure for fibroids includes hormonal treatments. This is one of many suggestions on how to shrink fibroids without undergoing a major procedure. Birth control is a common medication used to try and treat minor cases of fibroids and it is easily used at home without a need for hospital visits or recovery times.
Holistic options for fibroids
Everyday healthy habits can help prevent the development of fibroids. Not smoking or drinking excessively, as well as managing stress, exercise, and a healthy diet can go a long way in preventing uterine fibroids.
While embolization for fibroids is still one of the preferred options, your specialist might give you the go ahead on trying some holistic options if your symptoms are mild and your fibroids are not causing long term damage. It is more likely however, that they will recommend lifestyle changes alongside another treatment option. Your specialist might recommend a change in diet or an increase in physical activity to reduce fibroids and prevent them from returning.
Fibroids are related to hormones, which can be affected by blood sugar and blood pressure, both of which can be managed by a healthy lifestyle. While diet and exercise might not be a cureall, it’s a method that certainly does more good than harm, especially under the guidance of your Viva Eve specialist.
What should I ask my doctor about shrinking fibroids?
When you see your doctor, ask how long does it take fibroids to shrink after embolization. While the average is around 2-3 months, it depends on how many fibroids you have, how large they are, and where they are located in the uterus. You should also ask your doctor how to shrink fibroids in a way that fits with your lifestyle. Not every treatment is for every body. Hormonal treatments may be ineffective for your case, medical procedures may be necessary, or embolization for fibroids might not be something you are able to do right now.
When you see your doctor about shrinking fibroids, consider asking a few of the questions below.
Where are the fibroids located?
Depending on where the fibroids are located, or what type they are, can determine which treatment options are available to you. Ask your fibroids specialist where within the uterus your fibroids are growing to get a better idea of your options.
How many fibroids do you have?
The number of fibroids can also influence the type of treatment options your specialist might recommend. Having only one fibroid for instance, means your specialist might run some diagnostic tests to check for cancer cells within the fibroid even though statistically, the odds are low of developing fibroid cancer. If you have a great number of fibroids, your risk for cancer is even lower but more treatments or a combination of treatments might be necessary to help with fertility efforts or painful symptoms.
How big are the fibroids?
The size of your fibroids will impact whether or not treatment options like a myomectomy will work for you or if hormonal treatments or medications will be needed first to reduce the size. Embolization for fibroids that are larger in size might also be an option your specialist discusses with you.
So what is the right way to treat fibroids?
There is no one right way to treat fibroids and it will be important to talk to your fibroids specialist about the best options you have for effective treatment. The right way to treat fibroids is whichever way you and your specialist decide on. Talk about every option with your fibroids specialist and ask questions to have a better understanding of how the fibroids are affecting your health. To figure out which treatment options are best for you reach out to your Viva Eve specialist today.
