Myomectomy
A myomectomy is a surgical procedure that your doctor might recommend for removing the fibroids from the wall of the uterus. It is a good option particularly for women planning future pregnancy as it leaves the uterus intact.
Uterine fibroids are a type of non-cancerous growth that generally develops during a woman’s childbearing years. Particularly if they are large fibroids, they can expand or distort the uterus so that it is difficult to become pregnant in the future since fertilized eggs may not be able to attach properly to the uterine wall.
How do I know if I need a myomectomy?
It’s not unusual that you don’t experience any symptoms and even know that you’ll need fibroid treatment. They are most often found as a result of an ultrasound or a pelvic exam. Some common things you may experience include frequent urination, constipation, abnormally heavy menstrual bleeding, and pelvic pain.
Types of Myomectomy Surgical Procedures
Depending on the size and depending on the type of fibroids you have, your doctor will recommend the best kind of procedure for you to have.
Laparoscopic Myomectomy
In this procedure, small incisions are made in the lower abdomen, both hips, and the belly button. Small, camera-guided instruments are placed in the incisions and used to remove the fibroids. Laparoscopic procedures usually require general anesthesia, and you can expect a one to two day hospital stay.
Abdominal Myomectomy
During an abdominal myomectomy, an incision is made in the lower abdomen and the fibroids are removed. This procedure will also require general anesthesia, and has the longest recovery time – you can expect to stay in the hospital for up to four days.
Hysteroscopic Myomectomy
This procedure requires no incisions, rather an instrument is inserted through the vagina and cervix into the uterus to remove the fibroids. In an out-patient procedure, you’ll be asleep during the surgery but can recover at home later that same day.
While many women may worry about fibroid treatments, they are fairly common. We’ll sit and talk with you through the whole process, layout the recommendations, and help you from diagnosis through recovery.
If you are experiencing any symptoms of uterine fibroids, give us a call or send an email so that we can get you scheduled for an appointment.