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How to pay for your treatment
If you’re… paying for yourself
Did you know you don’t need private medical insurance to come to St John & St Elizabeth Hospital? As a self-pay patient, you can access safe, outstanding quality health care at times to suit you.
For scans and tests, as well as to see most consultants, you’ll still need to be referred by a medical professional like your GP, but as a self-pay patient, the process is more straightforward. You won’t need authorisation from an insurance provider, and you’ll have greater choice of consultant and appointment times.
If you’re… insured
St John & St Elizabeth Hospital is approved by all major medical insurance companies. If you have a personal private health insurance policy, or your company provide it for you, you can use it to pay for your care from your initial consultation through to treatment, surgery and aftercare such as physiotherapy. Not all private health insurance plans cover the same things. It’s very important to check exactly what you are covered for with your insurance provider.
Everything You Need to Know About Uterine Fibroids
Fibroid surgery is a highly effective solution for women experiencing symptoms that negatively impact their health, including heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, or infertility. Here are some key benefits of fibroid surgery:
- Pain Relief: Alleviation of pelvic pain and discomfort caused by fibroids.
- Improved Fertility: Removing fibroids can enhance fertility by creating a healthier uterine environment.
- Symptom Management: Helps control excessive menstrual bleeding, bloating, and frequent urination caused by large fibroids.
- Temporary Vaginal Bleeding: Some vaginal bleeding is common after procedures like hysteroscopic resection, endometrial ablation, and myomectomy. This bleeding is generally temporary and should subside within a few weeks, reassuring patients about their recovery process.
What are Uterine Fibroids?
Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in or on the uterus. These benign tumours, also known as leiomyomas or myomas, can vary greatly in size, from tiny seedlings undetectable by the human eye to bulky masses that can distort and enlarge the uterus. While some women with fibroids experience no symptoms, others may suffer from heavy menstrual bleeding, prolonged periods, pelvic pain, and frequent urination. In some cases, fibroids can lead to complications such as infertility or pregnancy issues.
Fibroids are quite common, affecting up to 70-80% of women by the age of 50. They are most prevalent in women of reproductive age, particularly those in their 30s and 40s. Factors such as family history, obesity, and hormonal imbalances can increase the likelihood of developing fibroids.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Diagnosing uterine fibroids typically begins with a pelvic exam, during which a doctor may feel irregularities in the shape of the uterus. To confirm the presence of fibroids and assess their size and location, imaging tests such as ultrasound or MRI are often used. These tests provide detailed images of the uterus, helping to determine the best course of treatment.
Treatment options for fibroids vary based on the severity of symptoms, the size and location of the fibroids, and the patient’s desire to maintain fertility. In addition to surgical procedures like myomectomy and hysterectomy, other treatments include medication to manage symptoms and non-surgical procedures to shrink fibroids. A personalised treatment plan is essential to address the unique needs and health goals of each patient.
Before the Fibroid Surgery
Consultation
During the initial consultation, your doctor will review your medical history, conduct a pelvic exam, and discuss your symptoms in detail. Imaging tests such as ultrasound or MRI may be used to assess the size and location of the fibroids within the uterine wall and help determine the best surgical approach.
Health Assessment
A full health assessment will be conducted to ensure you are fit for surgery. This includes evaluating your overall health, reviewing any medications you take, and discussing risks such as blood clots or infection. Blood tests and other pre-surgical tests may also be performed.
Pre-Procedure Instructions for Uterine Artery Embolisation
To prepare for fibroid surgery, you will receive a set of instructions, which may include:
- Medication Adjustments: You may need to stop certain medications before surgery.
- Fasting: Instructions to avoid food and drink after midnight on the day of surgery.
- Lifestyle Adjustments: Maintaining a healthy diet and avoiding smoking can help improve recovery outcomes.
Medicines for Fibroid Symptoms
Medications can play a crucial role in managing the symptoms of uterine fibroids. Commonly prescribed drugs include hormonal treatments such as gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists, which can shrink fibroids by reducing estrogen and progesterone levels. Birth control pills and progestin-releasing intrauterine devices (IUDs) can help control heavy menstrual bleeding and pain.
Non-hormonal options, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. While medications can effectively manage symptoms, they do not eliminate fibroids and are often used as a temporary solution or in conjunction with other treatments. It’s important to discuss potential side effects and long-term plans with your healthcare provider.
During the Surgery
Our experienced surgical team and advanced facilities ensure that your procedure is performed with the utmost care and precision.
Anaesthesia
You will receive either general anaesthesia, which puts you to sleep, or regional anaesthesia, which numbs the lower half of your body while you remain awake. The choice of anaesthesia depends on the type of surgery and your individual needs.
Surgical Process of Abdominal Myomectomy
There are two main types of fibroid surgery:
- Myomectomy: The surgeon removes the fibroids while preserving the uterus, ideal for women who want to maintain fertility. During this procedure, it is crucial to efficiently remove fibroid tissue to alleviate symptoms and enhance recovery times.
- Hysterectomy: In severe cases, where fibroids are large or recurrent, the entire uterus may be removed.
Both open surgery and minimally invasive techniques, such as laparoscopic or robotic surgery, can be used. Minimally invasive techniques generally result in faster recovery times and fewer complications.
Types of Myomectomy
Myomectomy is a surgical procedure specifically designed to remove fibroids while preserving the uterus, making it an ideal option for women who wish to maintain their fertility. There are three main types of myomectomy:
- Abdominal Myomectomy: This traditional open surgery involves making an incision in the lower abdomen to access and remove fibroids. It is often recommended for large fibroids or when multiple fibroids are present.
- Laparoscopic Myomectomy: A minimally invasive procedure where small incisions are made in the abdomen, and a laparoscope (a thin, lighted tube) is used to remove the fibroids. This method typically results in shorter recovery times and less postoperative pain.
- Hysteroscopic Myomectomy: This technique is used for fibroids located within the uterine cavity. A hysteroscope is inserted through the vagina and cervix, allowing the surgeon to remove fibroids without any abdominal incisions.
Choosing the right type of myomectomy depends on various factors, including the size, number, and location of the fibroids, as well as the patient’s overall health and reproductive goals. Consulting with a skilled surgeon can help determine the most appropriate approach for successful fibroid removal.
After Surgery
We provide comprehensive post-operative care to ensure a smooth and successful recovery.
Immediate Post-Op Care
Post-surgery, you may experience some swelling, pain, and tenderness, which can be managed with prescribed medications. It’s essential to avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity for several weeks to allow proper healing.
Follow-Up Care and Physical Therapy After Fibroid Removal Surgery
Regular follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your recovery. Depending on the type of surgery, light physical activities and pelvic floor exercises may be recommended to aid in healing and strengthen the abdominal muscles.
Appointment and Treatment Plan
Initial Consultation
Your journey begins with an initial consultation where your symptoms are assessed, and a treatment plan is discussed.
Personalised Treatment Plan
Based on the consultation, a tailored treatment plan will be developed, detailing the specifics of your procedure and recovery.
Pre-Procedure Assessment
A comprehensive pre-surgery assessment will ensure you are prepared for the procedure, with all necessary tests performed to maintain the highest standards of safety and care.
The Procedure
The surgery will be conducted using either open or minimally invasive techniques, depending on the severity and location of the fibroids. Our skilled surgeons are experienced in both myomectomy and hysterectomy procedures, ensuring the best possible outcomes.
Aftercare and Recovery
Following surgery, you will receive detailed aftercare instructions, including how to care for the surgical site, manage pain, and gradually return to daily activities. Follow-up appointments will help ensure your recovery is progressing as expected.
Top Tips following Fibroid Surgery
- Follow All Instructions: Strict adherence to your doctor’s post-surgical instructions is crucial for a smooth recovery.
- Rest and Recuperation: Take adequate time to rest and avoid physical strain during the healing period.
- Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Eating nutritious food and staying hydrated will support your recovery and overall well-being.