What is a first-line treatment option for uterine fibroids with heavy bleeding?

Hormonal therapy, such as oral contraceptives, is a first-line treatment option for managing uterine fibroids that are associated with heavy bleeding. This approach works by regulating the menstrual cycle, reducing menstrual flow, and shrinking the fibroids over time. Oral contraceptives can also help manage the symptoms associated with fibroids, such as pain and heavy menstrual bleeding, making them a practical and non-invasive option for many patients.

While surgical intervention might be necessary in some cases with more severe symptoms or when fibroids cause significant complications, it is typically reserved for situations where conservative management fails or when there are additional concerns such as large fibroids or pressure symptoms. Antibiotic therapy would not address the underlying issues of fibroids, as antibiotics are aimed at treating infections rather than gynecological structural issues. Iron supplementation would be beneficial in managing the anemia that can arise from heavy menstrual bleeding but does not address the bleeding itself or the fibroids, thereby making it a secondary supportive treatment rather than a primary management approach.