Fibroids
Dr. Raanan Meyer specializes in treating fibroids of all sizes, including large fibroids, using minimally invasive surgical techniques to reduce pain, preserve fertility, and promote faster recovery.
What Are Uterine Fibroids?
Uterine fibroids—also called leiomyomas or myomas—are non-cancerous growths that form in or around the uterus. They affect up to 70–80 % of women by age 50. While many remain small and symptom-free, others enlarge enough to impact quality of life and fertility.
Fibroids span a few millimetres to more than 10 cm; multiple sizes often coexist.
Types of Fibroids
- Intramural: grow within the uterine wall (most common).
- Submucosal: project into the cavity; linked to heavy bleeding and infertility.
- Subserosal: develop on the outer surface; may cause pelvic pressure or pain.
- Pedunculated: attach by a slender stalk and can twist, causing acute pain.
Common Symptoms of Fibroids
- Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
- Pelvic pain or pressure
- Pain during intercourse
- Frequent urination or incomplete bladder emptying
- Constipation
- Backache or leg pain
- Bloating or abdominal distention
- Infertility or recurrent pregnancy loss
Left untreated, fibroids may enlarge over time, intensifying symptoms and complications.
What Causes Fibroids?
- Hormones: Estrogen and progesterone drive growth.
- Genetics: Family history elevates risk.
- Ethnicity: Black women often develop larger, more symptomatic fibroids earlier.
- Lifestyle: Diet, stress, and obesity may influence growth (research ongoing).
Because fibroids are hormone-sensitive, many shrink after menopause.
How Fibroids Affect Fertility
- Blocking fallopian tubes
- Distorting uterine shape
- Interfering with implantation
- Increasing miscarriage or preterm-labour risk
Submucosal and large intramural fibroids pose the greatest fertility challenges. Dr. Meyer tailors fertility-preserving plans for patients trying to conceive.
Diagnosing Uterine Fibroids
Fibroids are often discovered during routine pelvic exams or when investigating heavy bleeding or infertility. Dr. Meyer uses advanced imaging to pinpoint size, number, and location.
- Transvaginal ultrasound – first-line imaging.
- MRI – detailed mapping for complex or large fibroids.
- Sonohysterography – saline-infusion ultrasound of the cavity.
- Hysteroscopy – direct visualisation of cavity-protruding fibroids.
Minimally Invasive Treatment Options
Some fibroids can be managed medically or monitored. For moderate–severe symptoms or fertility goals, surgery is often most effective. Dr. Meyer specialises in minimally invasive techniques that minimise pain, lower complications, and shorten recovery.
Laparoscopic Myomectomy
Small abdominal incisions allow removal and uterine reconstruction.
- Minimal scarring and shorter recovery (1–2 weeks)
- Lower infection and blood-loss risk
- Uterus preserved for future fertility
Robotic-Assisted Myomectomy
Using the da Vinci system, Dr. Meyer achieves even greater precision for multiple or hard-to-reach fibroids.
Hysteroscopic Myomectomy
Scar-free removal of submucosal fibroids through the cervix—ideal for heavy bleeding and fertility preservation.
Medical Management
- GnRH agonists to shrink fibroids temporarily
- Hormonal IUDs for lighter periods
- Oral contraceptives or progestins to regulate cycles
- Tranexamic acid to control heavy bleeding
Medical therapies offer temporary relief and do not prevent regrowth.
Should I Consider a Hysterectomy?
Hysterectomy is definitive but not always necessary. Dr. Meyer prioritises uterus-sparing options. When indicated, he performs laparoscopic or robotic hysterectomies focused on rapid recovery.
Why Choose Dr. Raanan Meyer
- Laparoscopic and robotic expertise—even for large fibroids
- Organ-preserving, fertility-friendly philosophy
- Individualised plans for symptom relief and pregnancy goals
- Advanced imaging and multidisciplinary care
- Track record of success with complex cases