A vaginal myomectomy is a minimally invasive procedure to remove submucous fibroids or endometrial polyps found in the uterine cavity while leaving the uterus intact. It is also sometimes called a hysteroscopic myomectomy. When vaginal myomectomy is performed, no incisions are used, so the recovery is quick and the complications are very rare. There are many advantages of myomectomy vs. hysterectomy procedures, especially for women in their childbearing years.
Vaginal (Hysteroscopic) Myomectomy
A myomectomy is a surgery that should only be performed by an expert Ob/Gyn specialist. Uterine fibroids and endometrial polyps are common noncancerous growths that can appear in or on your uterus, usually during childbearing years, but also at any age.
Uterine fibroids can cause:
- Heavy menstrual bleeding and the resulting anemia
- Painful sex
- Pelvic pressure and pain
- Fertility issues
Removing fibroids relieves those symptoms, improves your health and increases your chances of getting pregnant. Depending on the size, number, and location of your uterine fibroids, your Ob/Gyn decides whether Uterine Fibroid Embolization or a myomectomy will work best in your particular situation:
- Open myomectomy involves a horizontal or vertical incision in your abdomen, accessing your uterus and other pelvic organs directly.
- Laparoscopic myomectomy uses a telescope and small instruments inserted into half-inch incisions.
- Vaginal (Hysteroscopic) myomectomy requires no incisions since the doctor accesses your uterus through your vagina.
Vaginal Myomectomy Explained
In the past, only one option was available for women suffering from the symptoms of fibroids: an open myomectomy. The risks of this procedure included all those associated with major surgery, including possible infection of major abdominal and pelvic organs. A longer hospital stay and recovery time were common. Today, there are alternatives.
The least invasive procedure that also preserves your uterus is the hysteroscopic myomectomy or vaginal myomectomy. Your NYC Ob/Gyn at Viva Eve can perform this procedure if the uterine fibroids are small and accessible through the uterine cavity.
Vaginal Myomectomy Procedure
During the procedure a long, thin scope with a light is passed through the vagina and cervix into the uterus. No incision is needed. The physician can look inside the uterus for fibroids and other problems, such as polyps. A camera can also be used with the scope.Submucous or intracavitary myomas are easily visualized and can be resected or removed using a wire loop or similar device.
Vaginal (Hysteroscopic) Myomectomy Complications and Outcomes
The greatest benefit of this procedure is the relative lack of complications. The use of the resectoscope reduces the chance of bleeding after the procedure, because the procedure doesn’t involve incisions, there is also reduced scarring and post-operative discomfort.
The true benefits come from the relief of your symptoms. Reduction in excessive menstrual bleeding, pelvic pressure and pain all improve your quality of life. Being able to keep your uterus and possibly solve fertility issues is an additional benefit for many women. Some studies show that vaginal myomectomy can increase the woman’s chances of getting pregnant by up to 70 percent.
Vaginal Myomectomy Aftercare
Most patients are able to go home after a few hours of rest at their doctor’s office. In some rare cases, however, an overnight stay in the hospital may be required. You will be given a prescription for pain medicine and instructions for activity restrictions. You may see some small amount of vaginal bleeding or staining for a few days and maybe up to six weeks after the procedure. You can resume your normal work and exercise schedule within a couple of days.
While your potential for fertility is increased by a vaginal myomectomy, it’s recommended that you wait three months after the procedure before attempting a post-vaginal myomectomy pregnancy. This gives your body, especially your uterus, time to heal fully, providing the best opportunity for a viable pregnancy.
Vaginal Myomectomy Benefits
With a low complication rate, no uterus or abdominal incisions, and minimal blood loss and scar tissue complications, this process has many benefits over more invasive techniques. Your NYC Ob/Gyn can determine if this procedure is right for you.
Viva Eve is an integrated specialty practice. In our office we believe that how you are treated is just as important as the medical care we provide. We are dedicated to providing the highest quality obstetrics and gynecology with warmth and compassion.
The experts on the Viva Eve team are renowned for their extensive skills in performing hysteroscopic (vaginal) myomectomies.