Uterine myomas, also called fibroids, are very common benign growths of the muscle layer of the uterus. Many people never notice them, but for others they can cause heavy or prolonged periods, pelvic pressure, pain, bloating, frequent urination, or fertility and pregnancy concerns. Treatment is not always necessary, but when symptoms affect daily life, there are effective options that can relieve symptoms while aiming to protect the uterus.

At our specialised gynaecology clinic, uterine myoma treatment is planned around your symptoms, the size and position of the fibroids, and your future pregnancy plans. For selected patients, a minimally invasive option called radiofrequency myolysis (radiofrequency ablation of fibroids) may be suitable. This approach treats fibroid tissue from inside the uterus without large incisions and is designed to support a faster recovery than traditional surgery.

Understanding the condition and the goal of treatment

Myomas are non-cancerous tumours that develop in or on the uterus. They vary widely in number, size, and location. Symptoms depend on these factors and may include:

• Heavy menstrual bleeding or bleeding that lasts longer than usual
• Painful periods or pelvic cramping
• A feeling of pressure or fullness in the lower abdomen
• Increased urinary frequency or constipation due to pressure on nearby organs
• Pain during sex
• Anaemia (low iron) from heavy bleeding, which can cause fatigue and breathlessness

The aim of treatment is to reduce symptoms, improve quality of life, and, where possible, preserve the uterus and fertility. The right approach is individual. Some people benefit from medication or monitoring, while others need a procedure.

Who may benefit from minimally invasive myoma treatment

Radiofrequency myolysis can be a good option for people who:

• Have bothersome symptoms linked to fibroids, such as heavy bleeding, pain, or pressure
• Want to avoid major surgery or a longer recovery
• Prefer a uterus-sparing approach
• Have fibroids that are suitable in size and location for this technique

In many practices, fibroids up to around 8 cm are often considered the most suitable for radiofrequency treatment, although suitability is not based on size alone. The number of fibroids, their exact position (for example, within the uterine wall or bulging into the cavity), and your overall health all matter.

When this approach may not be the best fit

A different treatment may be recommended if:

• Fibroids are very large, numerous, or located in a way that makes safe access difficult
• There is suspicion of another condition that needs a different diagnostic pathway
• Symptoms are caused by something other than fibroids
• You are pregnant
• There is an active pelvic infection

If future pregnancy is a priority, the plan needs particular care. Many uterus-sparing treatments exist, and the most appropriate option depends on the type of fibroid and your reproductive goals.

Assessment and planning before treatment

A detailed assessment is essential to confirm that fibroids are the cause of symptoms and to choose the safest, most effective option.

At your consultation, our medical team typically covers:

• A full symptom review: bleeding pattern, pain, pressure symptoms, and impact on daily life
• Medical history: previous gynaecological procedures, medications, and any conditions such as anaemia or clotting issues
• Examination and ultrasound: transvaginal and or abdominal ultrasound to map the fibroids by size, number, and location
• Fertility and pregnancy plans: how soon you may want to conceive and whether fibroids may be affecting fertility

Additional tests may be advised, such as blood tests to check haemoglobin and iron levels, pregnancy testing where appropriate, and occasionally MRI if ultrasound does not provide enough detail for planning.

How radiofrequency myolysis is generally carried out

Radiofrequency myolysis treats fibroid tissue by applying controlled heat energy to the fibroid, leading it to shrink gradually over time. The procedure is performed under imaging guidance, usually ultrasound, to support accurate targeting.

While exact steps vary depending on the fibroid’s location and the technique used, the overall experience commonly includes:

• Sedation and comfort measures: light sedation is often used so you are relaxed and comfortable. General anaesthesia is not always required, but the safest option for you is decided during pre-assessment.
• Minimally invasive access: in selected cases, access can be achieved through the vagina and cervix (transcervical or transvaginal approach), meaning there are no abdominal incisions.
• Targeted treatment of the fibroid: a thin probe is guided into the fibroid under ultrasound. Radiofrequency energy is delivered for a short period, and the device temperature is monitored throughout.
• Observation afterwards: you are monitored for a few hours while the sedation wears off and to ensure you feel well before going home.

The treatment time for each fibroid can be brief, but the total time at the clinic is longer due to preparation and recovery monitoring.

Recovery and what improvement usually looks like

Most people go home the same day. Recovery is typically quicker than open surgery, but it is still a medical procedure and your body needs time.

In the first few days

• Mild cramping, pelvic discomfort, or period-like pain can occur
• Light vaginal spotting or discharge is possible
• Many people return to normal daily activities within a few days, depending on their work and comfort

Pain is usually manageable with standard pain relief, but you will be given personalised advice.

In the weeks and months after treatment

Fibroids shrink gradually. Symptom improvement is often noticed over the first 1 to 3 months, with continued change over 6 to 12 months. Follow-up imaging may show progressive reduction in fibroid size over time. The main goal is symptom relief, and the timeline varies between individuals.

Follow-up care

Follow-up is an important part of treatment. Our team typically arranges:

• A review of symptoms and recovery
• Guidance on returning to exercise and sexual activity
• Ultrasound follow-up when clinically appropriate
• Support for iron deficiency or anaemia if heavy bleeding has been an issue

If you are trying to conceive, timing and planning should be discussed in detail, including when it may be safe to start trying and whether additional fertility evaluation is needed.

Risks, limitations, and important considerations

All procedures carry risks, even when minimally invasive. Your doctor will explain your individual risk profile, but potential considerations include:

• Pain or cramping: common in the first 24 to 72 hours
• Vaginal spotting or discharge: usually temporary
• Infection: uncommon, but possible after any uterine procedure
• Incomplete symptom relief: symptoms may persist if fibroids are numerous, very large, or if symptoms have another cause
• Need for further treatment: some patients may need additional procedures later, particularly if new fibroids develop

It is also important to understand that fibroids are benign, but new symptoms such as rapidly worsening pain, very heavy bleeding, fever, or foul-smelling discharge after a procedure should be assessed promptly.

Your consultation journey and ongoing support

Choosing fibroid treatment can feel overwhelming, especially if symptoms have been affecting your energy, work, and confidence for a long time. Our approach is to provide clear information, careful assessment, and a plan that fits your goals.

From your first appointment through to follow-up, care is coordinated by our gynaecology team at our specialised clinic. You will have a clear point of contact for questions about preparation, recovery, medication, and follow-up imaging. If radiofrequency myolysis is not the best option for you, alternative treatments will be discussed in a balanced way, including medical therapy and surgical options, so you can make an informed decision.

If you are living with heavy bleeding, pain, or pressure symptoms, an expert assessment is the best next step. With the right plan, most people can achieve meaningful symptom relief and return to day-to-day life with greater comfort and confidence.