Uterine Fibroids

Hello, I am a 43 yr old mother of 2 and was diagnosed with Uterine Fibroids a couple years ago. I have annual ultrasounds that showed 4 fibroids, 1 being much larger than the others. My most recent mri showed 8 or 9 of them, so I know they are growing in size and number. HELP!! I have been reading alot about different procedures available and want to know if anyone out there has had success with any of them. I do not want my organs removed but I am done having children. I do bleed about every 2 weeks for a week to 12 days at a time. I am so sick of the bloating and pain and want a solution that doesn't result in a hysterectomy and talking hormone supplements for the rest of my life.

[Elaine Brown, MD]

Hi!
Procedures that you might want to consider would include the uterine artery embolization  which works quite nicely.  It does reduce blood flow to the ovaries as well, so does result in menopause in approximately 15-20% of women over 45.  Another very new procedure is the MRI-guided ultrasonic ablation of fibroids--although there is not a lot of data on this procedure--theoretically it would be less likely to cause a reduction in blood supply to the ovaries.
Also, myomectomies can be performed laparoscopically in many instances--so no need for removal of ovaries, or big incisions, and no need for hormones.
The down side to each of these procedures is about a 20% chance that new fibroids grow.  If you don't want to take that chance--you can have a hysterectomy with conservation of ovaries--just ask the doctor to leave them alone unless they have problems!

Hope this helps!
Good luck!
Dr B

[shelby43]

I have read and understand that even if the ovaries are kept in tact after a hystorectomy the bloodflow supply to the ovaries is reduced and they eventually die off and quit producing hormones anyway. I am a firm believer in optimal hormone balancing, even if Bio-Identicals are used. They help keep up energy levels, metabolism, good sleep, and disease prevention. I have Suzanne Somers book and it is very interesting. Do  you know anyone in the Scottsdale area that does the MRI guided procedure? Mayo Clinic offers it but only in Florida.