This article covers:
2) Symptoms of uterine fibroids
3) Types of myomectomy procedures available in Kenya
4) How long does it take to heal from fibroid removal surgery?
5) Risks of undergoing a myomectomy
6) Cost of myomectomy (fibroid surgery) in Kenya
7) Does NHIF cover fibroid surgery?
8) Hospitals that Perform Myomectomy Procedures in Kenya
It is estimated that 20% of women in their reproductive age group experience fibroids. Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous tumours found in the uterus.
Luckily, fibroids can be managed or treated with the right medical interventions. One of the most effective treatment options is fibroid removal through surgery (myomectomy), which has a success rate of 95%.
The treatment of fibroids in Kenya through a myomectomy comes with a substantial financial cost. Options such as NHIF and private health insurance may help ease the financial burden.
In this article, we will discuss myomectomy procedures, recovery periods, costs, and risk factors in detail.
Talk to a Patient Support Specialist to book a consultation on fibroid removal (myomectomy) procedure!
What is a Myomectomy?
A myomectomy (fibroid removal) is a surgical procedure used to remove fibroids from the uterus (womb).
Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that are more common during a female's reproductive years but can occur at any age.
Women with uterine fibroids have a range of treatment choices, and a myomectomy is one of them. You may need a myomectomy if:
-You plan on having children in future
-Your doctor suspects that fibroids are causing you fertility issues
-You want to keep your uterus rather than have a hysterectomy (total removal of the uterus)
Science hasn't yet pinpointed the precise cause of uterine fibroids. However, medical experts believe several factors contribute to their development, including genetics and hormonal influences.
What are the Symptoms of Fibroids?
Fibroids can present with a diverse array of symptoms, although some women may not experience any noticeable effects at all.
The severity and specific symptoms can be influenced by factors such as the size, number, and location of the fibroids within the uterus. The symptoms may include:
- Heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) or painful periods (dysmenorrhea).
- Longer or more frequent periods.
- Pelvic pressure or pain.
- Frequent urination or trouble urinating.
- An abdominal enlargement.
- Constipation.
- Pain during sex (dyspareunia).
- Pain in the stomach or lower back
Want to know about the best fibroid treatment specialists in Kenya? Read: Top 6 gynaecologists for fibroids treatment in Kenya
Types of Myomectomy Procedures Available in Kenya
In selecting the optimal treatment approach, a gynaecologist will consider the specific characteristics of your fibroids, ultimately recommending one of the following myomectomy procedures.
1) Abdominal Myomectomy
One option for removing uterine fibroids is an abdominal myomectomy, also called an open myomectomy and a major surgical intervention.
This procedure entails creating a laparotomy, a surgical incision within the lower abdominal region. Through this access, the surgeon meticulously removes fibroids from the uterine wall.
On average, you will spend 1 – 3 days in the hospital after the procedure.
2) Laparoscopic Myomectomy
For a less disruptive way to remove uterine fibroids, laparoscopic myomectomy is an option.
This technique involves creating several small abdominal incisions to facilitate uterine access.
The surgeon visualises the operative field on a high-resolution monitor while manoeuvring instruments through the remaining ports to meticulously excise the fibroids from the uterus.
You might spend at least 1 night in hospital after the procedure.
3) Hysteroscopic Myomectomy
Hysteroscopic myomectomy stands as the least invasive surgical option for addressing uterine fibroids.
The hysteroscope is introduced through the vagina and cervix, granting direct access to the uterine cavity.
This minimally invasive technique precisely removes fibroids while minimising impact on nearby healthy tissue.
You can return home on the same day after the procedure.
How Long Does It Take to Heal from Fibroid Removal Surgery?
A full recovery from a myomectomy usually takes 4 to 6 weeks. The recovery time depends on the myomectomy procedure you have had.
Hysteroscopic myomectomy – 2 to 3 days
Laparoscopic myomectomy – 2 to 4 weeks
Abdominal myomectomy – 4 to 6 weeks
Here are a few myomectomy procedure aftercare tips for a smooth recovery:
-Avoid vigorous exercise and lifting heavy objects
-Consult your doctor on when you can get back to having sexual intercourse
-Take all prescribed medication administered after the surgery
Risks of Undergoing a Fibroids Removal Surgery?
The complication rate among myomectomy procedures is relatively low. Like any other surgery, fibroid removal can have its complications. They include:
- Excessive blood loss
- Scar tissue
- Complications in pregnancy and child delivery
Cost of Myomectomy (Fibroid Surgery) in Kenya
The average cost of fibroid removal surgery in Kenya is KES. 250,000 to KES. 500,000. The final cost depends on several factors, such as hospital surgery fees, diagnostic tests, and postoperative care.
Does NHIF Cover Fibroid Surgery?
Yes, NHIF does cover a myomectomy (fibroid removal) under the Supa cover.
This includes a surgical package for up to KES. 40,000 for minor surgeries, KES. 130,000 for major surgeries and KES. 500,000 for specialised surgeries.
Surgeries, however, require authorisation from NHIF. When all relevant details are submitted, pre-authorisation usually takes a minimum of 24 hours and a maximum of 48 hours.
Get a treatment cost estimate of fibroid removal surgery through our patient support specialists
Fibroid Treatment Without Surgery in Kenya
1) Uterine Fibroid Embolisation (UFE)
Traditionally, women experiencing fibroids have two main options: myomectomy or a hysterectomy (which removes the entire uterus).
While both treatments are effective, they come with their own set of considerations – surgery, recovery time, and potential impact on future fertility.
Uterine fibroid embolisation (UFE) is a minimally invasive procedure for fibroid treatment that is gaining traction in Kenya. Here's why UFE could be an alternative for you:
i) No surgery
Unlike myomectomy and hysterectomy, UFE is a non-surgical procedure.
A tiny catheter is inserted through your wrist or groin, threaded to the arteries feeding the fibroids, then used to deliver particles that block their blood supply. These "starved" fibroids then shrink naturally over time.
ii) Faster Recovery
With UFE, you'll likely experience some cramping and discomfort after the procedure, but most women go home the same day or the next.
Recovery time is significantly shorter compared to surgery, allowing you to get back to your normal activities much quicker.
iii) Preserving Your Future
UFE is a excellent option for women who still desire to have children. Unlike a hysterectomy, UFE leaves your uterus intact, potentially allowing you to conceive naturally after the fibroids shrink.
UFE boasts a high success rate, with studies showing significant symptom improvement and fibroid reduction in up to 95% of patients.
Would you like to get this procedure done? Contact us to get connected to a UFE specialist!
Hospitals that Perform Myomectomy Procedures in Kenya
1) The Nairobi West Hospital
Website: The Nairobi West Hospital
Consultation Fees: KES. 2500
Insurances accepted: CIC, APA, Kenindia, Kenya Alliance, Heritage Insurance, Britam, AON, AAR, NHIF, Saham, Pacis, Madison, Kenya Alliance, Pacific, Kenbright, Sedgwick, Takaful, Old Mutual
Myomectomy procedures: Hysteroscopic resection, Abdominal myomectomy, Robotic myomectomy and Laparoscopic myomectomy
2) AAR Hospital
Website: AAR Hospital - Gynaecologic Department
Consultation Fee: KES. 2,000
Insurances accepted:
Madison, UAP, Minet, Liaison, First Assurance, Heritage, Eagle Africa Healthcare, MUA, Henner, Trident, Kenbright, M-Tiba, CIC, Cigna, BUPA, APA, Allianz, GA Insurance
Myomectomy procedures: Hysteroscopic myomectomy, Abdominal myomectomy, Robotic myomectomy, Laparoscopic myomectomy, and hysterectomy
3) 3rd Park Hospital
Website: 3rd Park Hospital
Lead doctor: Dr Praful S. Patel
Consultation Fees: KES 3,000
Fibroid treatment : Hysterectomy, Abdominal myomectomy, Robotic myomectomy, Laparoscopic myomectomy, Hysteroscopic myomectomy and Focused ultrasound surgery
4) Willows Clinic for Women
- Website: Willows Clinic for Women
- Lead Doctor: Pamela Adhiambo Muga
- Consultation Fees: KES. 3,000
- Insurances Accepted: CIC, APA
- Fibroid treatment : Hysterectomy, Abdominal myomectomy, Laparoscopic myomectomy, Fibroid medical management and Hysteroscopic myomectomy