Journal Maturitas Publishes Position Statement on Management of Uterine Fibroids
Amsterdam, June 16, 2014 /3BL Media/ – Journal Maturitas today announced the publication of a position statement by the European Menopause and Andropause Society (EMAS) on the topic of the management of uterine fibroids.
Uterine fibroids (also termed leiomyomas or myomas) are the most common tumors of the female reproductive tract. While they may be asymptomatic they can cause abnormal bleeding, pelvic pressure symptoms and infertility. Fibroid growth and regression vary throughout life. Thus, they tend to grow during the reproductive years and regress after the menopause. They affect millions of women and are the leading cause of hysterectomy.
The traditional management of symptomatic fibroids has been surgery (hysterectomy or myomectomy). However, some women do not want invasive surgery and wish to retain their uterus and fertility. Fortunately, during the last few years new medical and surgical uterine-conserving alternatives have become available as technological advances have been made. The range of medical treatments allows flexible management of fibroid-related symptoms; the options include tranexamic acid, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, contraceptive steroids, gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogues, antiprogesterone, and selective progesterone receptor modulators. Alternatives to surgery include uterine artery embolization, myolysis and ablation by high-intensity focused ultrasound (guided with magnetic resonance imaging or ultrasound). The choice of treatment depends on fibroid size, the underlying symptoms and their severity and the woman's desire for subsequent fertility and pregnancy, as well as efficacy and need for repeated interventions.
These and other recommendations presented in EMAS’ position statement are published in the article, “EMAS Position statement: Management of uterine fibroids” by, Faustino R. Pérez-López, Lía Ornat, Iuliana Ceausu, Herman Depypere, C. Tamer Erel, Irene Lambrinoudaki, Karin Schenck-Gustafsson, Tommaso Simoncini, Florence Tremollieres and Margaret Rees.
The article appears in Maturitas (DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.maturitas.2014.06.002) and is available on ScienceDirect.
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About European Menopause and Andropause Society (EMAS)
EMAS promotes the study of midlife health through its journal, congresses, schools and website and encourages the exchange of research and professional experience between members.
Using a range of activities and through its affiliates, EMAS aims to guarantee and provide the same standard of education and information throughout Europe on midlife health in both genders. Recognizing the issues arising from increased longevity the society also provides articles, patient information, web resources, and referrals for healthcare providers in the field and keeps its members up-to-date. For more information go to: www.emas-online.org
About Maturitas
Maturitas is an international multidisciplinary peer reviewed scientific journal of midlife health and beyond, publishing original research, reviews, consensus statements and guidelines. The scope encompasses all aspects of postreproductive health in both genders ranging from basic science to health and social care. www.maturitas.org
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