Myomectomy
What is a Myomectomy?
And How Advanced Gynecology Can Help
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When You Should Have a Myomectomy
- Pelvic pain
- Heavy periods
- Irregular bleeding
- Frequent urination
Myomectomy is a good option for women who have fibroids and wish to become pregnant in the future. Unlike a hysterectomy, which removes the entire uterus, myomectomy removes the fibroids but leaves the uterus in place.
Different Types of Myomectomy
Abdominal myomectomy
This procedure allows the doctor to remove the fibroids through an open surgical incision in the lower abdomen. This type of procedure is best women who have very large fibroids.
Laparoscopic myomectomy
This procedure allows the doctor to remove the fibroids through several small incisions and may be done robotically. This method is less invasive, and recovery is faster than with abdominal myomectomy. This type of procedure is best for women with a few small fibroids.
Hysteroscopic myomectomy
This procedure requires the doctor use a special scope to remove the fibroids through the vagina and cervix. This procedure may be best women who have smaller fibroids inside the uterus.
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Preparing for Myomectomy
Your doctor may conduct tests to make sure you're healthy enough for surgery depending on certain risk factors. These tests can include:
- Blood tests
- Electrocardiogram, a simple test that measures the heart's electrical activity
- MRI scan
- Pelvic ultrasound
- You may need to stop taking certain medications before the surgery — make sure you disclose what medications you take, including vitamins, supplements, and over-the-counter medications
- Stop smoking — if you smoke, stop six to eight weeks before the surgery. Smoking can slow the recovery process as well as increase your risk of cardiovascular events during the surgery
- No eating or drinking after midnight the night before the surgery
Recovery Time
Recovery time before you can return to normal activities depends on what type of procedure you have. Recovery times for each type are:
- Abdominal myomectomy: four to six weeks
- Laparoscopic myomectomy: two to four weeks
- Hysteroscopic myomectomy: two to three days
Results & Recovery after Myomectomy
If you are trying to get pregnant, ask your doctor when you can safely start trying. Your doctor may recommend you wait three to six months for the uterus to fully heal, depending on which kind of surgery you've had.
Unusual side effects which could indicate complications include fever, chills, intense bleeding more than a couple days after the procedure, strong smelling discharge, trouble urinating, or severe pain. If you experience any of these, call your doctor immediately.
