Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus. They can vary in size and number and may cause symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pressure or pain, frequent urination or fertility concerns.

Fibroid surgery may be recommended when fibroids cause significant symptoms, such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain or pressure, frequent urination or fertility concerns, and other treatments have not provided enough relief.

Common surgical options include myomectomy, which removes fibroids while preserving the uterus, and hysterectomy, which removes the uterus.

Laparoscopic radiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive treatment that delivers heat directly into a fibroid, destroying its tissue. The treated fibroid cell shrinks over time, ultimately resolving fibroid symptoms.

Your gynecologic surgeon can help determine which approach is best for your symptoms and goals.

Many fibroid surgeries can be performed using minimally invasive techniques, including laparoscopic or robotic-assisted surgery. These approaches may mean smaller incisions, less pain and a shorter recovery compared with traditional open surgery.

Recovery varies depending on the type of surgery and your overall health. Minimally invasive procedures generally allow you to return to normal activities sooner than traditional open surgery.

Fibroids can return after a myomectomy because the uterus remains in place and new fibroids can develop. A hysterectomy eliminates the possibility of uterine fibroids returning.

It depends on the type of surgery, but there are options. If future pregnancy is important to you, talk with your surgeon about your options.

If fibroids aren't causing symptoms, treatment may not be necessary. However, fibroids can grow and may eventually cause heavy menstrual bleeding, anemia, pelvic pain or pressure, urinary or bowel problems, or fertility concerns. Your doctor can help determine whether monitoring or treatment is right for you based on your symptoms, the size and location of your fibroids, and your treatment goals.