What Are Uterine Fibroids?
Uterine fibroids are the most common benign tumors of the female reproductive system, developing from the smooth muscle tissue of the uterus. They may occur as a single fibroid or as multiple growths and can vary in size, location, and growth rate. Although they are benign, fibroids can significantly affect a woman’s quality of life, menstrual cycle, and reproductive health.
Depending on their location, fibroids may develop within the uterine wall (intramural), on the outer surface of the uterus (subserosal), or within the uterine cavity (submucosal). Each type may cause different symptoms and requires an individualized approach to diagnosis and treatment.
Symptoms and Diagnosis of Uterine Fibroids
Symptoms of fibroids depend on their size, number, and location, and some women may experience no symptoms at all. The most common symptoms include heavy and prolonged menstrual bleeding, irregular menstrual cycles, pelvic pain, and a feeling of pressure or heaviness in the lower abdomen.
Larger fibroids may also cause frequent urination, constipation, and lower back pain. In some cases, fibroids can affect fertility and make it more difficult to conceive or maintain a pregnancy.
Diagnosis is based on a gynecological examination and high-resolution transvaginal ultrasound, which allows precise assessment of the number, size, and location of fibroids. Additional imaging methods, including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), may be used in more complex cases.
Treatment and Preservation of the Uterus
Treatment of uterine fibroids depends on symptoms, the patient’s age, the size and location of the fibroids, and reproductive plans. At IMC Priora, emphasis is placed on an individualized approach and preserving the uterus and fertility whenever medically appropriate and possible.
Treatment options may include medical management and monitoring; however, when symptoms are significant or fibroids continue to grow, surgical treatment is often recommended. Modern gynecological surgery relies on minimally invasive techniques, including laparoscopic and Da Vinci robotic fibroid removal (myomectomy), which provide excellent precision while preserving healthy uterine tissue.
In certain cases, particularly with large, multiple, or highly symptomatic fibroids in women who have completed their family planning, hysterectomy may also be considered. The goal of treatment is safe symptom relief, preservation of reproductive function, and the fastest possible recovery.
Dimitrije Milojković, dr. med.
MEDICAL TEAM
At IMC Priora, uterine fibroids are treated by an experienced gynecological team using advanced surgical techniques, including Da Vinci robotic surgery and laparoscopy. Treatment is planned individually, depending on the size, number, and location of the fibroids, as well as the patient’s symptoms and reproductive goals, with the aim of achieving the best possible outcome while preserving the uterus whenever possible. Thanks to advanced minimally invasive techniques, fibroids can be removed with exceptional precision while minimizing damage to healthy uterine tissue. This results in less postoperative pain, a lower risk of complications, faster recovery, and an earlier return to everyday activities.
