Many women experience symptoms such as excessive menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, or abdominal enlargement without knowing the exact cause. One common cause is uterine fibroids , benign growths of muscle tissue in the uterine wall.
Although benign, fibroids can interfere with fertility, cause pain, or interfere with daily activities. The good news is that fibroids can now be removed without major incisions , thanks to increasingly sophisticated medical technology.
What Are Myomas and How Common Are They?
Myomas can appear in women of reproductive age, especially between 30–50 years.
Most fibroids are benign and grow under the influence of the hormones estrogen and progesterone.
However, their size and location can vary, from small and asymptomatic, to large and pressing on surrounding organs.
"In the past, fibroid surgery was synonymous with large incisions and long recovery times. Now, with minimally invasive technologies like laparoscopy and hysteroscopy, patients can recover more quickly with very small scars."
Symptoms of Myoma That You Need to Be Aware of
Myomas (uterine fibroids) are benign tumors that grow in or around the uterus and often cause no symptoms in the early stages. However, in some women, myomas can cause quite disturbing symptoms. Here are the symptoms of myomas to watch out for:
- Excessive menstruation is bleeding that is heavy or lasts longer than usual.
- Severe menstrual pain, especially in the lower abdomen or back.
- A full or bloated stomach can feel like a “weight” in the pelvic area.
- Frequent urination due to fibroids pressing on the bladder.
- Difficulty defecating if the fibroid presses on the intestines.
- Pain during sexual intercourse.
- Difficulty getting pregnant or repeated miscarriages depending on the location and size of the fibroid.
- Anemia due to excessive blood loss during menstruation.
Not all women with fibroids will experience symptoms. Many cases are only discovered after a routine ultrasound examination.
Modern Technology to Remove Fibroids Without Large Incisions
1. Laparoscopic Myomectomy
This procedure uses a special instrument with a small camera (laparoscope) that is inserted through a small incision in the abdomen.
The doctor will remove the fibroid with direct visual guidance from the monitor screen.
Its advantages:
- Very small incision (0.5–1 cm)
- Less postoperative pain
- Lower risk of infection
- Short hospital stay
- Faster recovery
2. Hysteroscopic Myomectomy
This technique is used if the myoma grows inside the uterine cavity (submucosa).
The doctor inserts a hysteroscope through the vagina without any incisions, then removes the fibroids with high precision.
Its advantages:
- Without skin incision
- Fast procedure (usually less than 1 hour)
- Shorter recovery
- Suitable for patients who still want to have children
Who Needs This Action?
Myoma removal is recommended if:
- Myomas cause pain or excessive menstrual bleeding.
- Its size is increasing rapidly
- Causes fertility problems or pressure on the bladder
- Does not improve with drug treatment
The doctor will determine the best method based on the size, number, and location of the fibroids , as well as the patient's future pregnancy plans .
Myoma is a common condition, but now there is no need to be afraid.
With the latest technology, fibroid removal can be done without large incisions, without excessive pain, and with fast recovery .
This article was written by Dr. Dian Burhansah, Sp.OG, M.Kes, FMAS, FICS (Obstetrics and Gynecology Specialist at EMC Pekayon Hospital).