Have you ever heard of fibroids? They're surprisingly common, affecting up to 80% of women by the time they reach their fifties. These are non-cancerous growths that develop in the uterus, the muscular organ in your body where a baby grows during pregnancy. Ref: https://drpolyzos.gr While they're not usually life-threatening, fibroids can cause some unpleasant symptoms like heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, and frequent urination.

If you're experiencing these issues and your doctor suspects fibroids, they might recommend a visit to an obstetrician-gynecologist, often shortened to OB-GYN. These are healthcare professionals who specialize in the female reproductive system. They can diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions, including fibroids.

What are the Options for Treating Fibroids?

The good news is that there are several treatment options available for fibroids, depending on the severity of your symptoms, their location, and your overall health. Here, we'll explore two minimally invasive procedures that your OB-GYN might suggest: hysteroscopy and laparoscopic fibroid removal.

Hysteroscopy: A Look Inside

Imagine a tiny camera with a light on it, thin enough to fit through your cervix (the opening of the uterus). That's essentially what a hysteroscope is! During a hysteroscopy, your OB-GYN inserts this instrument into your vagina and then gently guides it into your uterus. This allows them to see the inside of your uterus clearly on a screen.

Hysteroscopy is a great diagnostic tool for fibroids. It helps your doctor pinpoint the exact location and size of the fibroids, which is crucial for determining the best course of treatment. In some cases, the hysteroscope can even be used for treatment. For instance, if the fibroids are small and located inside the uterine cavity (the hollow space where a baby would grow), your doctor might use special instruments inserted through the hysteroscope to remove them.

Laparoscopic Fibroid Removal: Minimally Invasive Surgery

Sometimes, fibroids might be too large or located outside the uterine cavity for a hysteroscopy. That's where laparoscopic surgery comes in. This is a minimally invasive procedure that uses small incisions in your abdomen instead of a large open cut.

Here's a simplified breakdown of what happens during a laparoscopic fibroid removal:

Your doctor will make a few tiny incisions in your abdomen.

They'll insert a laparoscope, a thin instrument with a camera and light, through one incision. This allows them to see inside your abdomen on a screen.

Other surgical instruments are inserted through the remaining incisions.

Using these instruments, your doctor carefully removes the fibroids.

Once the fibroids are gone, the instruments and laparoscope are removed, and the tiny incisions are closed with stitches or surgical glue.

Benefits of Minimally Invasive Procedures

Both hysteroscopy and laparoscopic fibroid removal offer several advantages over traditional open surgery. These include:

Smaller incisions: This translates to less pain and scarring for you.

Shorter hospital stay: You might be able to go home the same day or after a night of observation.

Faster recovery: You'll likely be able to resume your normal activities much sooner compared to open surgery.

Reduced risk of complications: Minimally invasive procedures generally carry a lower risk of infection and other complications.
Making the Right Choice for You

Choosing the best treatment for fibroids is a personal decision. Your OB-GYN will consider factors like the size and location of your fibroids, your overall health, and your desire to have children in the future. They'll discuss all your options with you in detail and answer any questions you might have.

Here are some things to keep in mind:

Hysteroscopy is a good option for small, inside-the-cavity fibroids. It's a relatively quick and simple procedure with a short recovery time.

Laparoscopic surgery is suitable for larger fibroids or those located outside the cavity. While more complex than a hysteroscopy, it still offers the benefits of minimal invasiveness.

Remember, you're not alone in this. Fibroids are a common condition, and there are effective treatments available. By working closely with your OB-GYN, you can understand your options and choose the best approach to managing your fibroids and regaining control of your health.