What is the recommended treatment for uterine fibroids causing heavy menstrual bleeding?

• A. Oral contraceptives
• B. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists
• C. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• D. Antibiotics

Answer: (B)

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists are effective in treating uterine fibroids that lead to heavy menstrual bleeding due to their ability to suppress the production of estrogen and progesterone. This results in a reduction in the size of the fibroids and subsequently alleviates the excessive bleeding often associated with them. By inducing a state similar to menopause, these medications reduce fibroid volume, which can help manage symptoms effectively.

In contrast, oral contraceptives primarily provide symptom relief by regulating menstrual cycles and reducing the severity of bleeding but do not address the fibroids directly. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help alleviate pain and reduce menstrual flow but do not impact the underlying fibroids. Antibiotics are not relevant in this context as they target infections rather than the fibroids themselves or the symptom of heavy menstrual bleeding. Thus, GnRH agonists are the most appropriate choice for this condition, focusing on the cause of the heavy bleeding linked to uterine fibroids.