Do uterine fibroids require surgery?

Whether uterine fibroids require surgery depends on factors such as the size of the fibroids, severity of symptoms, and the patient's reproductive needs. Most asymptomatic small fibroids do not require surgery. Surgery is usually recommended if severe anemia, compression symptoms or affecting fertility occur.

Asymptomatic uterine fibroids usually do not require surgical intervention, especially those that are less than 5 cm in diameter and do not cause symptoms such as abnormal menstruation or abdominal pain. These types of fibroids can be monitored for changes through regular ultrasound examinations, with reexamination every 6-12 months. Be careful to avoid consuming estrogen-containing health products or foods on a daily basis, such as royal jelly, snow clams, etc. Moderate exercise can help regulate hormone levels. If fibroids do not shrink but increase after menopause, you need to be alert to the possibility of malignant transformation.

Surgical treatment needs to be considered when the following conditions occur: fibroids cause excessive menstrual flow and cause anemia, and hemoglobin continues to be lower than 80g/L； Fibroids press on the bladder or rectum, causing frequent urination, difficulty urinating, or constipation ； Fibroids are more than 10 cm in diameter or grow rapidly in a short period of time ； Fibroids with special locations, such as submucosal fibroids, may affect pregnancy or cause recurrent miscarriage. Surgical methods include uterine myomectomy, uterine artery embolization or hysterectomy, depending on age, fertility needs and fibroid characteristics.

It is recommended that patients undergo regular gynecological examinations, and seek medical advice promptly if they experience symptoms such as prolonged menstruation, increased menstrual flow, or lower abdominal distension. It is necessary to avoid heavy physical labor for 3 months after surgery, supplement iron to correct anemia, and keep the perineum clean to prevent infection. Patients with hypertension or diabetes should strictly control their underlying diseases to reduce the risk of postoperative complications.