Performing Expert Fibroid Removal in Arizona

Uterine fibroids are tumors on the wall of the uterus. Uterine fibroids are almost always noncancerous. However, they can cause:

  • Bloating
  • Pain
  • Heavy menstrual bleeding
  • Painful sex
  • Frequent urination

Dignity Health provides caring fibroid removal and uterine fibroid embolization in Arizona. We have three first-class facilities dedicated to women’s health services:

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Why Doctors Perform Fibroid Removal

For many women, removing uterine fibroids helps relieve symptoms and improve quality of life. Common reasons for fibroid removal are: 

  • Rapid growth of the fibroid
  • Worsening symptoms
  • Heavy menstrual bleeding that interferes with activity
  • Bleeding between periods
  • Significant pain
  • Infertility

What to Expect With Fibroid Removal

The most common methods of fibroid removal are the following. 

  • Uterine fibroid embolization blocks blood flow to the fibroids, causing the fibroids to shrink. This procedure may be performed in a hospital or a doctor’s exam room.
  • Endometrial ablation is a procedure that destroys the lining of the uterus. Doctors may use electricity, extreme cold, lasers, or microwave energy. Endometrial ablation is minor surgery and may be performed in an exam room.
  • Myolysis destroys fibroids with a needle and electric current or extreme cold. Doctors use either a camera or ultrasound guidance to help them insert needles into the fibroids. Cold or electricity flows along the needle. Myolysis may be performed in an exam room.
  • MRI-guided ultrasound surgery uses ultrasound waves to destroy fibroids. This procedure is offered at specialized clinics.
  • Myomectomy is the surgical removal of fibroids from the uterus. Surgeons may remove the fibroids through the vagina or through incisions in the abdomen. Myomectomy is performed in an operating room. You may go home the same day or spend a few nights in the hospital, depending upon which type of surgery is performed.
  • Hysterectomy is the complete removal of the uterus. It is performed in an operating room. Options include vaginal hysterectomy (through small incisions in the vagina); abdominal hysterectomy (through an incision in the belly); and laparoscopic hysterectomy (through a few tiny incisions in the belly). After a hysterectomy, a woman cannot have children.

Each procedure has risks and benefits. The procedure that’s most appropriate for you will depend upon the size and number of fibroids, your age and overall health, and whether or not you wish to have children in the future. Your doctor will discuss your treatment options with you, including specific risks and benefits.

Recovery After Fibroid Removal at Dignity Health

The length of recovery depends upon the procedure. Most women need a few weeks to fully recover from fibroid removal. Full recovery after hysterectomy takes three to six weeks.

Unless a hysterectomy is performed, fibroids may recur after treatment. Your doctor will continue to monitor you after fibroid removal, and additional treatment may be necessary.

Dignity Health provides comprehensive women’s health services, including fibroid removal and uterine fibroid embolization, in Arizona.