Overview

What are Uterine Fibroids?

The uterus (womb) is where a baby grows. Uterine fibroids are lumps that grow in the uterus. Uterine fibroids are not cancer but are extremely common and can cause problems. They are also called leiomyomas or myomas.

What Causes Uterine Fibroids?

The exact cause is not fully known, but fibroids are linked to:

• Hormonal changes (estrogen, progesterone)
• Genetic factors (family history)

Who is at Risk?

You may have a higher chance of uterine fibroids if:

• Age is 30–50 years
• Family history of fibroids
• Have not reached menopause
• No prior pregnancy
• You are overweight or obese
• Have high blood pressure or diabetes

Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids

Some women may not have symptoms. Others may have:

• Heavy or long periods
• Stomach pain
• Back pain
• Frequent urge to pass urine
• Difficulty getting pregnant
• Pain during periods or intercourse

How are they Diagnosed?

• Physical examination (tummy, pelvic area, internal vaginal examination)
• Blood tests (for anaemia)
• Ultrasound (sound waves to create a picture of organs)
• Hysteroscopy (a thin camera inserted to see inside the uterus)
• Hysterosalpingography (HSG) — X-ray of uterus and tubes
• Sonohysterography (fluid + ultrasound for a clear view of the uterus lining)
• Laparoscopy (thin camera inserted through small cut to see outside uterus)
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan

How are Uterine Fibroids Treated?

Treatment depends on symptoms and future pregnancy plans:

• Painkillers (Ibuprofen, Naproxen, Diclofenac)
• Medications to treat heavy bleeding (e.g. Tranexamic acid)
• Hormone therapy
• Surgery — myomectomy (to remove fibroids) or hysterectomy (to remove fibroids and the womb)

Overview of Myomectomy

What is Myomectomy?

Myomectomy is a surgery to remove fibroids while keeping the uterus intact.

Why is it Done?

Myomectomy is recommended if:

• Heavy periods and pain in the lower belly
• Planning pregnancy in the future
• Fibroids are affecting fertility
• Wish to keep the uterus

Types of Myomectomy

Procedure Details

Instructions Before the Procedure

• BP, pulse and temperature will be checked
• Doctor will review your medicines
• Inform about allergies
• You will be asked to fast before surgery

Step-by-Step Overview

• You will be given general anaesthesia (put to sleep)
• Small cuts are made in the abdomen
• Tiny instruments are inserted through these cuts to remove the fibroids
• Surgeon controls robotic arms from a console
• Surgical team assists during the procedure
• Fibroids are removed through the cuts
• Cuts are closed

After the Procedure

• Monitoring of pain and vitals
• Mild vaginal bleeding may occur for a few days to weeks
• Pain or discomfort is common (medicines will be given)

Before Discharge, You Will Be Advised To

• Care for the surgical area
• Take prescribed pain medicines
• Resume regular medicines as advised
• Follow activity restrictions
• Watch for warning signs
• Attend follow-up appointments

Risks & Complications

Common Risks

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Pain
• Nausea after anaesthesia

Benefits and Outcomes

• Symptom relief
• Uterus preserved
• Faster recovery

Success Rates

• High success in symptom control
• Robotic surgery is as effective as other methods

Quality of Life

• Better daily comfort
• Return to routine

After Myomectomy, You May Notice

• Relief from symptoms (less pain, lighter periods)
• Reduced pressure in the abdomen
• Improved chances of pregnancy

Hospital Stay & Recovery

Hospital Stay Duration

Short hospital stay, usually 1–2 days.

Recovery Timeline

Most patients recover quickly (3–4 weeks), with early movement and return to normal activities within a few weeks.

Follow-up Schedule

• First visit: 1–2 weeks
• Then as advised

Lifestyle & Prevention

Activity Restrictions

• Avoid heavy lifting
• No strenuous activity initially
• Avoid driving briefly

Wound Care

• Keep clean and dry
• Watch for infection signs

Diet

• Iron-rich foods
• Plenty of fluids
• Balanced nutrition

Exercise

• Start with walking
• Gradually increase activity

Long-Term Care

• Regular follow-ups
• Monitor symptoms

Preventing Recurrence

• Maintain a healthy weight
• Stay active
• Attend regular check-ups

Myths vs Facts

Frequently Asked Questions