Breast cancer survivor Chhavi Mittal undergoes fibroid surgery: ‘Not afraid, just irritated’

Chhavi Mittal, a woman who has beaten breast cancer, recently had surgery to address a uterine fibroid. On Instagram, the actress behind Family Vacation explained that her fibroid had expanded rapidly due to the Tamoxifen treatment she was under. She shared her annoyance, stating that despite the ups and downs of her health, she was not scared but rather irritated.

Dr Jeyhan Dhabhar, an oncology and immunotherapy expert at Jaslok Hospital and Research Centre in Mumbai, stated that fibroids are quite common and may not cause symptoms in many women. However, they should not be taken lightly. Dr Dhabhar explained that surgery is typically considered when fibroids impact a woman's quality of life, such as heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding, anaemia, severe pelvic pain, urinary issues, rapid abdominal swelling, fertility problems, or when there is any uncertainty about the diagnosis.

The type of surgery depends on various factors like the woman's age, symptoms, fibroid size and location, and fertility concerns. In some cases, only the fibroids are removed in a procedure called a myomectomy, while in certain situations, a hysterectomy, or uterus removal, might be recommended. For cancer survivors, Dr Dhabhar clarified that previous cancer history does not automatically elevate the risk of fibroid surgery.

The risk is more dependent on the type of cancer, the treatment received, the time since treatment completion, and the patient's current health. For instance, chemotherapy or radiotherapy may affect blood counts, immunity, wound healing, or organ function. If a patient is currently undergoing cancer treatment, the timing of surgery becomes crucial.

When it comes to women with hormone-sensitive cancers, such as certain breast cancers, a review of ongoing hormonal treatment and proposed management by both gynaecologists and oncologists is essential.