I had a myomectomy at age 40 – 6 mos ago. I have no children and want them. I want to avoid fibroids reoccurring again. What can I do?
There really isn’t a way to avoid their return. The typical recommendation following myomectomy, if pregnancy is desired, is to start trying to conceive after 3 month recovery from surgery.
Should I be worried an abnormal Pap?
It depends on the actual result. It is important to follow up with the doctor so he/she can discuss possible biopsy, if that is necessary.
Are polyps and fibroids similar?
They are different. Polyps are soft, fleshy like over growths of the lining of the uterus(endometrium). Fibroids are firm, roundish growths made of the muscle fibers of the uterus.
Is it true when you’ve had a hysterectomy that fibroids come back?
No. Fibroids start in the uterus. Once the uterus is removed, they cannot grow back.
What happens to fibroids after menopause? Do they disintegrate? Or do they continue to grow?
During menopause, the fibroids typically stop growing and calcify (get old and hard. If there is continued bleeding or growth of the fibroids, there may be another more serious condition that needs to be evaluated promptly. So it is important to see a doctor right away if that happens.
Is it true you can pass the fibroids without surgery?
Rarely. If the fibroids are located within the lining of the uterus and they lose blood supply, they may pass through the cervix if they are small.
