At what age does uterine fibroids require surgery to remove the uterus?

Surgery to remove the uterus is usually recommended when uterine fibroids are more than 5 centimeters in diameter or cause severe symptoms. The main treatments for uterine fibroids include drug therapy, myomectomy, hysterectomy, etc.

1. Drug treatment

When uterine fibroids are small, drug treatment can be tried. Commonly used drugs include mifepristone tablets, Guizhi Fuling capsules, Dan'e Fukang decoction, etc. Mifepristone tablets can inhibit the growth of fibroids, Guizhi Fuling capsules can activate blood circulation and remove blood stasis, and Dan'e Fukang decoction can help relieve symptoms such as heavy menstruation. Drug treatment is suitable for patients with small fibroids and mild symptoms, and medication needs to be used under the guidance of a doctor.

2. Uterine myomectomy

Myomectomy is suitable for patients who wish to preserve their uterus, in which the fibroids are surgically removed from the uterine wall. This surgery is suitable for cases where the diameter of the fibroids is between 5-10 cm, the number is small, and the location is superficial. Relapse may occur after surgery and regular review is required. Removal surgery can preserve uterine function and is suitable for women who want to have children.

3. Hysterectomy

Hysterectomy is suitable for patients whose fibroids are too large, numerous, or cause symptoms such as severe anemia. Hysterectomy is recommended when the diameter of fibroids exceeds 10 cm, grows rapidly, or is suspected of malignant transformation. There are three surgical methods: abdominal, transvaginal and laparoscopic. A hysterectomy can completely resolve the fibroid problem, but can lead to permanent infertility.

4. Interventional treatment

Uterine artery embolization is a minimally invasive interventional treatment that blocks the blood supply to fibroids to shrink them. Suitable for patients who cannot tolerate surgery or who wish to preserve the uterus. Post-embolization syndrome such as abdominal pain and fever may occur after treatment. This method is less invasive but may involve the risk of recurrence, and needs to be selected based on the patient's specific conditions.

5. Focused ultrasound therapy

High-intensity focused ultrasound uses ultrasound waves to precisely ablate fibroid tissue. This treatment is non-invasive, has quick recovery, and is suitable for fibroids of 3-8 cm. After treatment, the size of the fibroids will gradually shrink and symptoms will improve. However, there is a possibility that the treatment will not be complete, requiring multiple treatments or a combination of other methods.

Patients with uterine fibroids should pay attention to maintaining a regular schedule and avoid overexertion. Eat more iron-rich foods such as lean meat, animal liver, etc. to prevent anemia. Moderate exercise can help improve physical fitness, but strenuous exercise should be avoided. Regular gynecological examinations can detect changes in fibroids in time. If symptoms such as abnormal menstruation and abdominal pain occur, you should seek medical treatment promptly. Maintain a good attitude and avoid excessive mental stress.