The Best Minimally Invasive Treatments for Uterine Fibroids

Uterine fibroids are benign growths (made up of muscle and connective tissue) that develop in or around the uterus. They can be a deeply personal and sometimes overwhelming diagnosis that affects women in very different ways. Minimally invasive treatments for uterine fibroids can be a welcome source of relief for many. Some women indeed experience no symptoms at all, but countless others struggle with heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain or pressure, bloating, frequent urination, or bowel discomfort. Fibroids also vary in size and number, meaning no two cases are ever exactly the same.

Advances in modern medicine have made managing fibroids possible. They offer effective treatments that prioritise symptom relief while shortening recovery time and disruption to daily life. Many of these options avoid large surgical incisions and, in some cases, surgery altogether.

In this article, we explore the best minimally invasive and non-surgical treatments for uterine fibroids, helping you understand how these procedures work, who they may be suitable for, and what benefits they offer. You can make empowering decisions about your care and quality of life with the right information.

Non-Surgical and Minimally Invasive Treatments for Uterine Fibroids

Minimally invasive treatments aim to lower or eliminate fibroids while minimising trauma to the body. These approaches differ from surgery because they typically involve small incisions, image-guided techniques, or non-invasive energy-based therapies. The result is mostly less pain, fewer complications, shorter hospital stays, and quicker recovery times.

These options are particularly appealing to women who want to avoid major surgery, preserve their uterus, or return to normal activities as soon as possible.

Uterine Fibroid Embolisation (UFE)

Uterine Fibroid Embolisation is one of the most effective non-surgical treatments for uterine fibroids. Performed by an interventional radiologist, UFE uses advanced imaging to guide a thin catheter through the blood vessels to the uterus.

Tiny particles are then injected to block the blood supply feeding the fibroids. Without blood flow, the fibroids gradually shrink and symptoms such as heavy bleeding and pelvic pressure improve significantly.

Benefits of UFE include:

• No large incisions or general surgery
• A more convenient alternative to hysterectomy or myomectomy
• Preservation of the uterus
• Treatment of multiple fibroids at once

UFE is a well-established option for women seeking a minimally invasive fibroid removal alternative. Interested in learning more about UFE and complete patient care? Reach out to a specialist at Minima Radiology for a consultation.

MRI-Guided Focused Ultrasound (MRgFUS)

MRI-guided focused ultrasound is a non-invasive treatment for fibroids that uses high-intensity ultrasound waves to heat and destroy fibroid tissue. The procedure is performed without incisions and is guided by real-time MRI imaging for precision.

MRgFUS is generally recommended for smaller, well-defined fibroids located away from sensitive structures. It is not suitable for all fibroid types or multiple large fibroids.

Key advantages include:

• No surgical cuts or needles
• Non-invasive procedure with outpatient treatment
• Minimal post-procedure discomfort for suitable candidates
• Reduced risk of infection

While not appropriate for every fibroid case, MRgFUS offers an innovative solution for women seeking non-invasive treatment for fibroids.

Minimally Invasive Myomectomy

A myomectomy involves the removal of fibroids while preserving the uterus. When performed using minimally invasive techniques, such as laparoscopy or hysteroscopy, it requires only small incisions or access through the cervix.

This approach may be recommended for women who wish to retain fertility or prefer fibroid removal rather than shrinkage.

Benefits include:

• Targeted removal of fibroids
• Reduced blood loss compared to open surgery
• Less post-operative pain
• Preservation of the uterus

The suitability of a minimally invasive myomectomy depends on fibroid size, number, and location.

Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)

Radiofrequency ablation is a minimally invasive surgery for fibroids that uses heat to destroy fibroid tissue. A specialised device delivers controlled energy directly into the fibroid, causing it to shrink over time.

RFA can be performed laparoscopically or transcervically and is associated with shorter hospital stays and quicker recovery. Visit our UFE vs. Radiofrequency Ablation guide for an in-depth comparison between these two procedures.

Is a Minimally Invasive Fibroid Treatment Right for You?

If you’ve been living with fibroid symptoms, it can be hard to know when treatment is truly necessary, or which option might suit you best. A minimally invasive approach may be worth exploring if you relate to any of the following:

You may benefit from minimally invasive treatment if:

• Heavy or prolonged periods are affecting your energy, work, or social life
• Pelvic pain, pressure, or bloating is persistent or worsening
• You want relief but would prefer to avoid major surgery
• Recovery time and getting back to daily life quickly is important to you
• You’ve been told hysterectomy is an option, but you’d like to explore alternatives

You may want to discuss non-surgical options if:

• You wish to preserve your uterus
• You have multiple fibroids causing symptoms
• Medications are no longer helping or causing side effects
• You feel uncertain and want a clearer picture of what’s happening inside your body

Advanced imaging is largely the first step. It helps specialists understand the size, number, and location of fibroids—information that’s essential for determining which minimally invasive or non-invasive treatments may be suitable for you.

Taking the Next Step with Confidence

Minimally invasive treatments aim to relieve symptoms with smaller incisions, shorter recovery times, and less disruption to daily life. But you don’t have to make decisions about fibroid treatment alone, or all at once. A qualified specialist can help you evaluate which minimally invasive treatment may be appropriate based on your individual case.

At Minima Radiology, advanced imaging and image-guided procedures play a key role in evaluating fibroids and supporting minimally invasive treatment pathways. The team helps ensure that each woman’s care is guided by clear information and careful planning, with a focus on precision, safety, and patient comfort.

A consultation and diagnostic imaging assessment with us can help clarify your options and open the door to effective relief if fibroid symptoms are affecting your quality of life, without unnecessary surgery. Join the many patients who’ve experienced Minima Radiology’s specialised, supportive care throughout their minimally invasive treatment journey by contacting Minima Radiology today.