A myomectomy is the removal of fibroids while leaving the uterus in place. It is generally recommended for women who have symptomatic fibroids and wish to preserve their fertility or their uterus.

The approach depends on the size, number and location of the fibroids. Hysteroscopic myomectomy removes fibroids within the uterine cavity through the cervix with no incisions. Laparoscopic myomectomy uses keyhole incisions for fibroids in the wall of the uterus. For very large or numerous fibroids, an open abdominal approach may be safer.

Surgery is performed under general anaesthetic. Hospital stay ranges from same-day discharge for hysteroscopic procedures to two or three nights for open surgery. Recovery is correspondingly variable, from a few days to around six weeks.

Fibroids can recur over time, and the way the uterus heals may affect recommendations for future pregnancy and birth. These considerations are discussed as part of planning.