Non-Surgical Fibroid Treatment Options: Reduce Size Without Surgery

Uterine fibroids are a common type of noncancerous tumor that develop in approximately one out of five women, according to Medline Plus. For some women, treatment for fibroids with non-surgical options may be appropriate.

Types

• Hormonal medications that can help reduce the size of a fibroid tumor include gonadotropin-releasing hormone (Gn-RH) agonists, a progestin-releasing intrauterine device (IUD) and androgens, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Effects

• Hormones used in the treatment of fibroids limit the action of female hormones, as female hormones encourage the growth of fibroids.

Features

• Non-surgical, hormonal treatment is normally only used to shrink fibroids before surgery or if a woman is near menopause, at which times fibroids shrink.

Considerations

• Taking androgens to shrink fibroids may produce side effects, such as increase in weight, feelings of depression, anxiety, uneasiness (dysphoria), acne, headaches, hair growth and a deeper voice, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Warning

• Every woman with fibroids has different symptoms and manifestations, so a doctor can best help individual patients decide what treatments are appropriate for them personally.