Fibroid embolization and surgery have similar five-year outcomes
Every year in the United States, hundreds of thousands of women are treated for fibroids — noncancerous growths that form in the uterus. Fibroids can cause pelvic pain, lower abdominal pressure, and heavy menstrual bleeding. Fibroids usually shrink after menopause, and before menopause, symptoms can sometimes be managed with medications. For women with severe bleeding who can't or don't want to "wait it out," the usual approach has been surgery — myomectomy (which removes only the fibroids) or hysterectomy, which removes the uterus (and ends childbearing).
American Journal of Obstetrics and GynecologyTo continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.