Three Medicinal Fibroid Treatments Available
Typically, there are no signs and symptoms of fibroids — small, benign cysts that form along the uterus — but that doesn’t mean they can’t cause problems. According to the Mayo Clinic, the symptoms of fibroid cysts can include such problematic issues as heavy menstrual bleeding, prolonged menstrual periods, pelvic pressure, frequent urination, difficulty urinating, constipation, backaches, or even leg pains.
Thankfully, there are several different fibroid treatments. If you’re experiencing any of these awful symptoms, consider discussing some of the following treatments for uterine fibroids with your doctor.
Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (Gn-RH) Agonists.
Gn-RH agonists can treat fibroids by blocking estrogen and progesteron production, which puts womens’ bodies into a temproary postmenopausal state. Without those hormones, menstruation stops, and the fibroids shrink. Unfortunately, it’s only used to shrink the fibroids before minor surgery, as long-term usage can lead to bone loss.
Progestin-Releasing Intrauterine Device (IUD).
Progestin-releasing IUDs can relieve the heavy bleeding that fibroids sometimes cause. However, they only provide symptom relief, and aren’t used to remove fibroids. They don’t shrink them, either. If you’d like to have your fibroid dealt with once and for all, you’d be wise to seek other fibroid treatments.
Other Medicinal Fibroid Treatments.
There are other medicinal fibroid treatments that can help women deal with symptoms. For example, progestins can help staunch the heavy menstrual bleeding that comes as a result of fibroids. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can help relieve the pain caused by fibroids, but won’t reduce bleeding caused by them. None of these are actually used to shrink or remove the fibroids either.
Luckily for women everywhere, the management of uterine fibroids can be done medicinally. However, some cases may be more severe, and could potentially require surgical fibroid treatments. The only way to know for sure is to discuss with your primary care physician.
If you have any questions about the treatment of uterine fibroids, feel free to ask in the comments.
