At what age does uterine fibroids require surgery?

Surgery is usually recommended when uterine fibroids are larger than 5 centimeters in diameter or cause severe symptoms. The surgical indications for uterine fibroids are mainly related to the size, growth rate, severity of symptoms and fertility needs of the fibroids.

Fibroids exceeding 5 cm in diameter are one of the common indications for surgery. This type of fibroid may press on the bladder, causing frequent urination and urgency, press on the rectum, cause constipation, or cause a feeling of bloating in the lower abdomen. Rapidly growing fibroids are at risk of malignant transformation and require surgical resection to confirm pathological diagnosis. Even small submucosal fibroids may cause heavy menstrual bleeding, prolonged menstruation, and even anemia. In this case, hysteroscopic surgery is the first choice. If multiple fibroids cause severe pressure on the pelvic organs or recurrent miscarriages, uterine myomectomy or hysterectomy should be considered. Abnormal enlargement of postmenopausal fibroids requires alertness to the possibility of malignant transformation, and early surgical intervention is recommended.

For fibroids that do not meet the criteria for surgery, ultrasound can be reviewed every 3-6 months to monitor changes. Those with anemia need to take iron supplements, and those with obvious dysmenorrhea can use non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen sustained-release capsules and naproxen sodium tablets for a short period of time. Chinese patent medicines such as Guizhi Fuling Capsules and Hongjin Xiaojie Capsules may help control the growth of fibroids. If fibroids affect the shape of the uterine cavity in those who are planning to become pregnant, it is recommended to treat them before pregnancy. You should avoid taking estrogen-containing health products on a daily basis, maintain a regular schedule, and exercise moderately to control your weight.