Can submucosal uterine fibroids be treated with medication?

Submucosal uterine fibroids usually cannot be completely cured by drug treatment alone. Although drugs can relieve symptoms or shrink fibroids to a certain extent, they cannot completely remove them. The treatment method depends on the size of the fibroids, the severity of symptoms and the patient's fertility needs. A comprehensive method such as drug relief combined with surgical treatment can be selected.

1. Drug treatment: suitable for mild symptoms or preoperative preparation

(1) Hormone drugs

For example, gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRH-a) can reduce endometrial thickening and shrink fibroids by inhibiting ovarian hormone secretion. This drug is mainly used for preoperative preparation, reducing the difficulty of surgery, or temporarily relieving symptoms such as menorrhagia, but it may cause side effects such as hot flashes and osteoporosis, and needs to be used for a short period of time.

(2) New endometrial inhibitors

Mifepristone, for example, can reduce progesterone, inhibit endometrial proliferation and shrink fibroids, but it cannot eradicate fibroids. It is often used for symptom management and anemia improvement. However, long-term use may cause problems such as menstrual disorders.

(3) Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and iron supplementation

Used to relieve pain and anemia caused by heavy menstruation. If symptoms are mainly heavy menstrual flow and fatigue, combined with iron supplements, it can improve quality of life.

2. Surgical treatment: the preferred option for severe symptoms

When medication cannot control the disease or the fibroids are large and the symptoms are obvious, surgery is often a more effective treatment, especially when the submucosal uterine fibroids grow into the uterine cavity, causing menstrual disorders or recurrent miscarriages. The following are common surgical options:

(1) Hysteroscopic surgery

Hysteroscopic removal of fibroids involves minimal trauma and quick recovery. It is suitable for cases where the fibroids are small and protrude into the uterine cavity. It is the first-line option for treating submucosal uterine fibroids.

(2) Laparoscopic or open surgery

For larger or more numerous fibroids, laparoscopic or open removal can be chosen, and if necessary, combined with myomectomy to preserve the uterus.

(3) High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU)

Non-invasive ablation of fibroids is a new option for women who want to have children, but the results currently vary from person to person.

3. Daily life conditioning and precautions

(1) Maintain a healthy diet: Eat more foods rich in iron and vitamins, such as spinach, lean meat and soy products, and avoid spicy and greasy foods.

(2) Moderate exercise: such as jogging, yoga, etc., can help strengthen the body and improve immunity.

(3) Regular physical examinations: If you have a history of fibroids, you should have an ultrasound examination every six months and pay close attention to any changes.

Submucosal uterine fibroids are difficult to cure with drugs alone, and drugs are mostly used to relieve symptoms or for preoperative preparation. It is recommended to choose an appropriate treatment plan according to the condition, seek medical treatment in a timely manner and communicate fully with the doctor to obtain personalized treatment guidance.