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The Difference Between a Hysterectomy and Myomectomy

Hysterectomy and myomectomy surgeries are the most recommended open surgery procedures for the treatment of fibroids; an extremely common condition that affects many women on a daily basis. However, there are a number of differences between hysterectomies and myomectomies. Before we go into these, it’s important to understand what fibroids are and why they require treatment.

What are Fibroids?

Uterine Fibroids, also sometimes known as leiomyomas or uterine myomas, are benign growths that develop in and around the area of the uterus. There are various types of fibroids, although the most common form is intramural fibroids, which appear in the uterus’ muscle wall and can cause several painful and problematic symptoms, such as painful or heavy periods. Larger intramural fibroids can occasionally also stretch to the womb. Other types of fibroids include ovarian fibroids, subserosal fibroids (outside of the uterus) pedunculated fibroids (when the subserosal fibroid develops a stem to support the tumour) and submucosal fibroids (these are less common and develop in the middle muscle layer of the uterus). 

In addition to heavy periods, other symptoms can include:

  • Stomach and back pain
  • Constipation
  • Regular urination

There are various other symptoms that women may experience, although these are the most common. In more serious cases there can be further complications caused by uterine fibroids, which may intervene with pregnancy or cause infertility, although these are rare.

Uterine fibroids can be detected via a pelvic examination by our expert gynaecologists, who may instruct an ultrasound, lab tests, or further imaging tests in order to make an official diagnosis.

Once a fibroids diagnosis is made, your private gynaecologist will then evaluate the best method for removing the unwanted growths from the uterus. As a specialist laparoscopic surgeon and head gynaecologist, Mr Mohammed Masood will usually perform less invasive treatments at Gynaesthetics London in the first instance. However, if these procedures fail to solve the issue, he will then recommend either a hysterectomy or a myomectomy to solve your fibroid issue.

What is a Myomectomy?

A myomectomy involves uterine fibroid removal through a surgical procedure in order to eliminate uncomfortable symptoms caused by the benign growths. This can also be conducted if the fibroids are suspected to be affecting your fertility and need to be removed as soon as possible.

If a woman still wishes to have children then a myomectomy procedure is recommended as the more suitable operation to remove fibroids, as the alternative, a full hysterectomy, completely removes all chances of pregnancy.

A myomectomy has a very low-risk rate, although any surgical procedure has complications. For example, a myomectomy operation may cause excessive loss of blood and scar tissue. There is a slight chance of difficulties occurring if you are pregnant during the procedure. In rare instances, a hysterectomy may have to be performed if other abnormalities are found.

What is a Hysterectomy?

A hysterectomy is usually the last resort for treating uterine fibroids or any other non-cancerous gynaecological issues, as once the uterus and cervix are completely removed, the chances of conception are non-existent.

Essentially, a hysterectomy involves removing the womb via invasive surgery. However, there are various hysterectomy types ranging in levels of extremity, depending on the severity of the patient’s diagnosis and symptoms. In some cases, a partial hysterectomy may be performed, where only part of the uterus is removed, rather than the entire uterus and cervix. In more serious situations, such as the treatment of cancer, a radical hysterectomy may be required. This involves the removal of the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes and even the upper part of the vagina, in addition associated pelvic ligaments and lymph nodes. However, as fibroids are non-cancerous, a simpler procedure is normally required.

Generally speaking, a hysterectomy  is usually recommended to women over the age of 35, as this is the average age of women who have had their children and wish to bear no more. Our gynaecologists do not advise a hysterectomy for younger women unless it is completely necessary. By having surgery early in life, women may face health issues such as heart problems or metabolic conditions.

If you have tried all other alternatives to remove your painful fibroids, then a hysterectomy is the perfect solution for you. It is currently the only permanent solution for removing uterine fibroids.

Book a Consultation

If you are struggling with painful periods, abdominal issues or any other symptoms associated with uterine fibroids you should consult with one of our professional gynaecologists to discuss your options.

Mr Mohammed Masood offers a private and professional service for all clients who are looking to remove their uterine fibroids or any other issues. They provide advice on smaller procedures and will evaluate whether a hysterectomy or myomectomy is the right step to take.

Gyneaesthetics London offers fibroids treatment across London and Essex. Our professional team will ensure that all your needs are met from the consultation up until recovery. For further information on our gynaecological services, please contact us on 0782 597 0530 and discuss your medical options with one of our expert team members. You can also get in touch via email at fscott@masgynaecology.com.

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