Is There Really No Cure? The Truth About Living and Thriving With Fibroids

Is There Really No Cure? The Truth About Living and Thriving With Fibroids

Hearing “there’s no cure” can feel discouraging when you’re living with uterine fibroids—noncancerous growths that affect millions of people with a uterus. The fuller truth is more hopeful. While fibroids can recur and not every option is right for every body, a wide range of proven treatments can control symptoms, protect fertility goals, and dramatically improve quality of life. For some, a one-time procedure ends the problem permanently. The key is personalized, evidence-based care.

What Are Fibroids and How Common Are They?

Uterine fibroids (leiomyomas) are benign tumors that grow in or on the uterus. They can be as small as a seed or as large as a grapefruit, and you may have one or many. Symptoms vary widely and can include heavy or prolonged periods, pelvic pressure or pain, frequent urination, constipation, back pain, and pain with sex. Many people have no symptoms at all.

Fibroids are very common: by age 50, up to 70–80% of people with a uterus will have them, with higher rates and earlier onset among Black women. Heavy bleeding and anemia are common reasons people seek care.

So…Is There Really “No Cure” for Fibroids?

It depends on what “cure” means for you. There are two important truths:

  • Definitive cure exists: Removing the uterus (hysterectomy) permanently eliminates fibroids and their recurrence.
  • Uterus-sparing options are effective: Treatments can shrink fibroids and control bleeding and pain, but fibroids can recur or new ones can grow over time. Many patients achieve long-term control without removing the uterus.

The best choice depends on your symptoms, fibroid size and location, age, plans for pregnancy, other health conditions, and your preferences.

Evidence-Based Treatment Options

Watchful waiting

If your fibroids are small and not causing problems, your clinician may recommend monitoring with periodic exams or imaging. Fibroids often grow slowly, and some shrink after menopause.

Medications to control bleeding and pain

  • NSAIDs (like ibuprofen) can reduce menstrual cramps and some bleeding.
  • Tranexamic acid (non-hormonal) is taken during periods to reduce heavy bleeding.
  • Hormonal contraceptives (pills, patch, ring) and the levonorgestrel-releasing IUD can lighten periods and cramps; the IUD is particularly effective for heavy bleeding, though it may be less helpful if fibroids distort the uterine cavity.
  • GnRH agonists/antagonists lower estrogen temporarily to shrink fibroids and reduce bleeding. FDA-approved oral combinations—elagolix with estradiol/norethindrone (Oriahnn) and relugolix with estradiol/norethindrone (Myfembree)—treat heavy menstrual bleeding due to fibroids. They are typically used for up to 24 months with “add-back” hormones to protect bone health.

Medications are valuable to stabilize anemia, prepare for procedures, bridge to menopause, or control symptoms when surgery is not desired.

Uterus-sparing procedures

  • Myomectomy removes fibroids and preserves the uterus. It can be done hysteroscopically (through the cervix for fibroids inside the uterine cavity), laparoscopically/robotically (minimally invasive), or via open surgery (for very large or numerous fibroids). It improves bleeding and pressure symptoms and is the standard surgical option for patients pursuing pregnancy. Fibroids can recur; estimates vary, but some patients need repeat treatment over time.
  • Uterine artery embolization (UAE) is a minimally invasive radiology procedure that blocks blood flow to fibroids, causing them to shrink. It often reduces bleeding and bulk symptoms and has a relatively quick recovery. It is generally not the first choice for those actively seeking pregnancy, so discuss fertility goals with your clinician.
  • Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) uses heat to shrink fibroids through laparoscopic or transcervical approaches. Recovery is typically rapid, and bleeding and pressure symptoms often improve; long-term fertility data are still evolving.
  • MRI-guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS) is a noninvasive outpatient option in select cases to ablate fibroid tissue. Suitability depends on fibroid size, number, and location.

Definitive option

  • Hysterectomy removes the uterus and definitively cures fibroids (they cannot return). It is appropriate when childbearing is complete and other treatments have failed or aren’t desired. Minimally invasive approaches are preferred when safe. Discuss the rare but important FDA guidance regarding the use of power morcellation and containment strategies with your surgeon.

Living—and Thriving—with Fibroids: Practical Strategies

  • Manage iron and anemia: Heavy bleeding can deplete iron stores. Ask about a blood count and ferritin. Iron-rich foods (beans, lentils, lean meats, leafy greens) and iron supplements can help; treat the cause of bleeding to prevent recurrence.
  • Track your symptoms: Keep a period and symptom diary (or app). Note bleeding volume, pain, pressure, urinary frequency, and missed activities. This helps tailor care and measure progress.
  • Supportive lifestyle habits: Maintaining a healthy weight, regular physical activity, and a balanced diet support overall hormone health and may ease symptoms like fatigue and constipation. While research is ongoing, no specific diet has been proven to “shrink” fibroids.
  • Address whole-person wellbeing: Pelvic floor physical therapy, sexual health counseling, and mental health support can improve quality of life alongside medical treatment.
  • Be your own advocate: Fibroids disproportionately affect Black women, who often experience more severe symptoms and barriers to care. Bring your questions, ask about all options, and seek second opinions if needed.

Fertility and Pregnancy Considerations

Many people with fibroids conceive and have healthy pregnancies. Fibroid location matters: submucosal fibroids (bulging into the uterine cavity) are more likely to affect fertility and miscarriage risk; removing these via hysteroscopic myomectomy can improve outcomes. Large or multiple fibroids can sometimes increase risks such as pain, malpresentation, or preterm birth. If pregnancy is a goal, discuss which treatments best balance symptom relief and fertility preservation, and the ideal timing for conception after therapy.

When to Seek Care Urgently

  • Bleeding that soaks through a pad or tampon every hour for several hours
  • Symptoms of anemia: dizziness, shortness of breath, fainting, paleness, extreme fatigue
  • Severe or worsening pelvic pain, fever, or pain with a positive pregnancy test

Myths and Misinformation to Avoid

  • “Herbal cleanses cure fibroids.” No over-the-counter supplement has been proven to shrink fibroids safely or consistently. Be cautious with unregulated products and bold claims.
  • “Fibroids always lead to cancer.” Fibroids are benign. Uterine sarcoma is rare and usually unrelated to common fibroids.
  • “You must have a hysterectomy.” Many effective, uterus-sparing options exist; your values and goals matter.

The Bottom Line

“No cure” doesn’t mean “no hope.” From medications and minimally invasive procedures to definitive surgery when appropriate, most people can find a plan that controls bleeding, relieves pressure and pain, and supports their life goals. Partner with a gynecologist you trust, review the full menu of options, and choose the path that fits your body and priorities.

Trusted Sources and Further Reading

This article is informational and not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult your clinician for diagnosis and personalized treatment.

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