Women with uterine fibroids who are considering treatment to preserve their fertility may be happy to learn about a new option. A recent study published in Obstetrics & Gynecology found that radiofrequency ablation, a minimally invasive procedure that uses heat to shrink fibroids, offers pregnancy outcomes similar to myomectomy, a surgical procedure to remove fibroids.
Moving Towards Radiofrequency Ablation
Traditionally, myomectomy has been the go-to option for many women with fibroids who want to get pregnant. However, myomectomy is a surgery that carries some risks and limitations, such as restrictions on labor, excessive blood loss, and infection at the surgical site. This new study suggests that radiofrequency ablation offers a promising alternative with fewer to no complications.
The Study: Details and Results
The study followed over 539 premenopausal women with symptomatic fibroids for up to five years. Researchers compared pregnancy outcomes every six months in 372 women who underwent radiofrequency ablation and 167 women who got myomectomy. The study found no significant difference in miscarriage rates, full-term delivery rates, or gestational age at delivery between the two groups. This comes as a consolation for women who are concerned about the impact of fibroid treatment on their ability to have a healthy pregnancy.
The study also found that nearly half (45.5%) of pregnancies after radiofrequency ablation were found to have resulted in vaginal delivery. This is an important consideration for women who prefer a vaginal or normal delivery.
The researchers acknowledge the need for longer-term studies to assess the durability of radiofrequency ablation and its impact on fibroid recurrence rates. However, this initial study suggests that radiofrequency ablation is a safe and effective option for women with fibroids who want to preserve their fertility.
Talk to Your Doctor
If you have uterine fibroids and are considering treatment, talk to your doctor about all of your options, including radiofrequency ablation. This minimally invasive procedure may allow you to shrink your fibroids and achieve a healthy pregnancy.
About Fibroid Fighters
Fibroid Fighters is a public welfare organization created to raise public awareness about fibroids’ social, economic, and health impacts so that we can destigmatize the condition, encourage open conversations around fibroids, and advocate for better support systems. We believe women deserve to be equipped with the knowledge and resources to navigate fibroids with confidence and access the best possible care.
