What is the common treatment for fibroids causing significant symptoms?

• A. Hormonal therapy
• B. Uterine artery embolization or surgical removal
• C. Antibiotics and pain management
• D. Watchful waiting and lifestyle changes

Answer: (B)

The common treatment for fibroids that are causing significant symptoms often involves procedures like uterine artery embolization or surgical removal. When fibroids lead to debilitating symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, or pressure symptoms, more definitive treatments are necessary to alleviate these issues effectively.

Uterine artery embolization is a minimally invasive procedure that blocks blood flow to the fibroids, causing them to shrink and thereby reducing symptoms. Surgical removal, which may include a hysterectomy or myomectomy, addresses the problem by physically removing the fibroids or the entire uterus if indicated, offering potentially permanent relief from symptoms.

Other options such as hormonal therapy may help with symptom management for some individuals, but they do not address the fibroids themselves directly. Similarly, antibiotics and pain management might be useful for addressing secondary infections or pain, but they do not treat the underlying fibroid condition. Watchful waiting and lifestyle changes may be appropriate for asymptomatic fibroids, but when significant symptoms are present, more active intervention is often necessary. Thus, uterine artery embolization or surgical removal is the standard approach for symptomatic fibroids.