Why Myomectomy is Recommended?
Myomectomy is a surgical procedure used to remove uterine fibroids while keeping the uterus intact. Fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in the uterus and may cause symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, or pressure in the lower abdomen.
The main goal of a myomectomy is to remove the fibroids that are causing symptoms while preserving the uterus. This makes it an important option for women who want to maintain fertility or avoid removing the uterus.
Fibroids can vary in size and location. Some grow inside the uterine wall, while others grow on the outer surface or inside the uterine cavity. Doctors recommend myomectomy when fibroids lead to severe discomfort, heavy bleeding, or fertility problems.
After the fibroids are removed, the surgeon repairs the uterus so it can continue functioning normally.
Purpose & Benefits of Myomectomy
Myomectomy offers several medical benefits for patients suffering from fibroids.
Key benefits include the following:
● Removes uterine fibroids causing symptoms
● Preserves the uterus and fertility
● Reduces heavy menstrual bleeding
● Relieves pelvic pain and pressure
● Improves chances of pregnancy in some cases
● Reduces bladder or bowel pressure caused by large fibroids
● Improves overall quality of life
Many patients notice significant relief from symptoms after the surgery.
Who May Need Myomectomy?
A doctor may recommend myomectomy for women experiencing fibroid-related problems.
You may need this procedure if you have:
● Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
● Pelvic pain or pressure
● Frequent urination caused by fibroids
● Difficulty getting pregnant due to fibroids
● Repeated miscarriages related to fibroid growth
● Large fibroids causing abdominal swelling
Doctors evaluate the size, number, and location of fibroids before deciding if myomectomy is the best treatment option.
Types of Myomectomy
There are several types of myomectomy procedures. The type chosen depends on the size, location, and number of fibroids.
1. Abdominal Myomectomy
This is an open surgery where the surgeon makes an incision in the lower abdomen to remove fibroids directly from the uterus. It is often used for large or multiple fibroids.
2. Laparoscopic Myomectomy
In this minimally invasive technique, the surgeon removes fibroids using small incisions and a tiny camera. This approach usually results in less pain and faster recovery.
3. Hysteroscopic Myomectomy
This procedure is performed through the vagina and cervix using a hysteroscope. It is commonly used for fibroids that grow inside the uterine cavity.
The doctor will choose the most suitable method depending on the patient's condition.
Myomectomy Procedure: Step-by-Step
Myomectomy is usually performed in a hospital by a gynaecologic surgeon.
1. Before surgery, doctors may perform blood tests, ultrasound scans, or MRIs to determine the size and location of fibroids.
2. The patient is given general anesthesia or regional anesthesia to prevent pain during the procedure.
3. The surgeon reaches the uterus using one of the surgical approaches (abdominal, laparoscopic, or hysteroscopic).
4. The fibroids are carefully removed from the uterine muscle.
5. After fibroid removal, the uterus is stitched and repaired to maintain its structure.
6. The surgical area is closed, and the patient is monitored in the recovery room.
The procedure time varies depending on the type of surgery and the number of fibroids.
Recovery & Aftercare
Recovery after myomectomy depends on the type of surgery performed.
Typical recovery times include:
● Hysteroscopic myomectomy: a few days
● Laparoscopic myomectomy: 2–4 weeks
● Open abdominal myomectomy: about 4–6 weeks
Patients may experience mild pain, fatigue, or light vaginal bleeding during recovery.
Doctors usually recommend the following:
● Rest and avoiding heavy lifting
● Taking prescribed medications
● Attending follow-up appointments
● Avoiding strenuous activities during healing
Patients planning pregnancy are usually advised to wait 3–6 months after surgery to allow the uterus to heal fully.
Risks & Possible Complications
Although myomectomy is generally safe, certain risks may occur.
Possible complications include the following:
● Bleeding during surgery
● Infection
● Scar tissue formation
● Damage to nearby organs
● Fibroid recurrence
● Rare risk of uterine rupture during future pregnancy
Doctors carefully evaluate each patient to reduce these risks.
Myomectomy vs Hysterectomy
Myomectomy is often compared with hysterectomy when treating fibroids.
Myomectomy
● Removes fibroids only
● Preserves the uterus
● Allows future pregnancy
Hysterectomy
● Removes the entire uterus
● Fibroids cannot return
● Pregnancy is not possible afterward
Women who want to maintain fertility often choose myomectomy instead of hysterectomy.
Gynecology
Obstetricians and Gynecologists