Dr Ong Xiaohui

Management of fibroids, ovarian cysts, and endometriosis

These are three of the most common gynaecological conditions Dr Ong sees. Many women live with them for years without realising they can be managed, and treatment is not always surgery. Dr Ong will help you understand what you have, what it means for your health and fertility, and what your options are.

If a procedure is needed, she will explain which approach, whether medical, minimally invasive, or open, is genuinely most suitable for your situation, along with the alternatives.

Uterine fibroids

Fibroids are non-cancerous growths of the uterus. Many cause no symptoms, but some can lead to heavy periods, pelvic pressure, pain, or fertility issues.

Treatment options

  • Watchful monitoring for small, asymptomatic fibroids
  • Medication to manage symptoms such as heavy bleeding
  • Myomectomy — removal of fibroids while preserving the uterus (often important for women who wish to have children)
  • Hysterectomy — removal of the uterus in severe cases where other treatments are not suitable
  • Both myomectomy and hysterectomy can often be performed laparoscopically or hysteroscopically, depending on the size and location of the fibroids

Ovarian cysts

Most ovarian cysts are benign, and many resolve on their own. The key is accurate assessment to distinguish simple cysts from those that need closer follow-up or surgery.

Treatment options

  • Ultrasound monitoring for cysts likely to resolve
  • Blood tests where needed to help characterise the cyst
  • Cystectomy — removal of the cyst while preserving the ovary
  • Oophorectomy — removal of the ovary where indicated
  • Careful assessment to rule out malignancy before surgery
  • Laparoscopic approach where suitable

Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a chronic condition in which tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus. It can cause painful periods, pelvic pain, pain during intercourse, and fertility difficulties. Diagnosis often takes years, and Dr Ong takes persistent symptoms seriously.

Treatment options

  • Medical management with hormonal therapy to suppress the endometrial-like tissue
  • Pain management tailored to your symptoms
  • Laparoscopic excision of endometriosis where surgery is indicated
  • Endometrioma (ovarian chocolate cyst) removal with ovarian preservation
  • Adhesion removal to free organs bound together by scar tissue
  • Fertility-focused planning if you are trying to conceive, including referral where appropriate

Other conditions Dr Ong manages

Related concerns that often overlap with the above:

  • Heavy or abnormal uterine bleeding
  • Pelvic pain
  • Endometrial polyps
  • Cervical abnormalities (see cervical screening)
  • Ectopic pregnancy
  • Adenomyosis

What to expect

  1. Consultation — Dr Ong will take a careful history, examine you where appropriate, and explain what she thinks is going on
  2. Investigations — blood tests, ultrasound, or other imaging as needed
  3. Treatment plan — a clear plan that balances your symptoms, your health, and your life stage (including fertility plans)
  4. Treatment — medical management or surgery at Thomson Medical Centre
  5. Follow-up — ongoing review to make sure treatment is working and adjust if needed

Medisave & insurance

Many gynaecological procedures are claimable under Medisave, and most major insurers cover them. Our clinic can advise on coverage for your specific treatment.

Frequently asked questions

No. Many fibroids are small, cause no symptoms, and are simply monitored over time. Removal is generally considered when fibroids cause heavy or prolonged periods, pelvic pressure or pain, fertility issues, or grow rapidly. Treatment is decided based on your symptoms, age, plans for pregnancy, and the size and location of the fibroids.
Most ovarian cysts found on ultrasound are benign and many resolve on their own. The role of the gynaecologist is to assess the cyst carefully, distinguish simple cysts from those needing closer follow-up or surgery, and rule out features that warrant further investigation. A clear assessment usually involves an ultrasound, sometimes blood tests, and a review of any symptoms.
Endometriosis is suspected from the pattern of symptoms (such as painful periods, pelvic pain, pain during intercourse, or difficulty conceiving) and findings on examination and ultrasound. A definitive diagnosis usually requires laparoscopy, which can also treat the disease in the same procedure. Many women experience years of symptoms before diagnosis, so persistent concerns should not be dismissed.
When surgery is needed, the approach is usually planned to preserve fertility where this is important to you. For fibroids, this means a myomectomy (removing the fibroid while keeping the uterus) rather than a hysterectomy. For endometriosis, careful excision aims to remove disease while protecting the ovaries and tubes. Dr Ong will explain the risks and likely impact on fertility before any procedure.
Often, yes. Many women with fibroids, ovarian cysts, or endometriosis are managed with monitoring, medication for pain or bleeding, or hormonal therapy. Surgery is reserved for situations where conservative options are not enough or where the diagnosis itself requires it.
Most gynaecological procedures can be done laparoscopically, but suitability depends on the size and nature of the condition, previous surgeries, and your overall health. In some situations, open surgery is the safer or more effective option. Dr Ong will explain the trade-offs and recommend the approach that fits your case. See [minimally invasive surgery](/services/laparoscopic-surgery) for more on the techniques used.
Recovery depends on the procedure and the approach used. After laparoscopic surgery, most patients are discharged within 1 to 2 days and return to light activities over 1 to 2 weeks. Hysteroscopic procedures often allow same-day discharge. Open surgery typically needs 4 to 6 weeks of recovery. Dr Ong will give you a specific recovery plan for your operation.
Many gynaecological procedures are claimable under Medisave, and most major insurers in Singapore cover them. The exact amount depends on the procedure, the hospital ward, and your specific policy. The clinic can provide a fee estimate and guide you through pre-authorisation.

Ready to See a Specialist?

If you have a gynaecological concern or are looking for an obstetrician, we would welcome the chance to help. Book a consultation to get started.

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Opening Hours

  • Monday – Friday: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
  • Saturday: 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM
  • Sunday & Public Holidays: Closed