Is surgery necessary for a 7-cm uterine fibroid?
A uterine fibroid measuring over 7 cm does not necessarily require surgical treatment. Surgery can be considered if there are obvious symptoms or rapid growth, while if there are no symptoms and the patient is approaching menopause, surgery may not be necessary. If any abnormalities occur, prompt medical attention is recommended. Detailed explanation is as follows:
For uterine fibroids larger than 7 cm, surgery may be considered if symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding leading to anemia, significant abdominal pain, pressure on the bladder or rectum causing difficulty in urination or defecation, or a rapid increase in size within a short period occur. Surgery can help alleviate symptoms and prevent disease progression.
If the uterine fibroid measures over 7 cm but there are no significant discomfort symptoms, and the patient is older and approaching menopause, surgery may not be necessary as the fibroid may shrink after menopause due to decreased hormone levels. In such cases, regular follow-up examinations to monitor changes are sufficient.
If a uterine fibroid measuring over 7 cm is detected, timely medical consultation is necessary. A healthcare professional should evaluate the specific condition and decide whether surgery is needed. Self-diagnosis and delayed treatment should be avoided.