Define what you are hoping to avoid

Before comparing options, name the concern: avoiding uterus removal, avoiding major surgery, preserving future pregnancy options, reducing recovery time, controlling bleeding without a procedure, or simply understanding all options.

Questions to ask

  • When I say “without surgery,” what options are we actually talking about?
  • Am I asking about alternatives to hysterectomy, fewer incisions, uterus preservation, shorter recovery, or no procedure at all?
  • What tradeoffs come with each meaning?

Ask about categories, not promises

Possible discussions may include watchful waiting, medication, UFE/UAE, MRgFUS, ablation-focused procedures, myomectomy routes, or other clinician-directed options. Some are procedures even if they are not open surgery.

Questions to ask

  • Which options are medication-only, which are minimally invasive procedures, and which are surgery?
  • Which options address bleeding, bulk/pressure symptoms, pain, or fertility questions?
  • What imaging, labs, or specialist input is needed before any of these can be discussed seriously?

Ask when urgency changes the conversation

Severe bleeding, fainting, pregnancy-related symptoms, fever, post-procedure symptoms, kidney obstruction language, or postmenopausal bleeding may require prompt clinician attention rather than routine decision-prep browsing.

Questions to ask

  • Which symptoms should make me contact you promptly or seek urgent care?
  • If anemia or bleeding is significant, what should be handled before comparing longer-term options?
  • What should I not wait on?

Sources

ACOG uterine fibroids FAQ · RadiologyInfo UFE and MRgFUS · MedlinePlus uterine fibroids