Uterine Fibroid Embolization
Understanding Uterine Fibroids & Treatment Options
Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous (benign) growths that form in the muscular walls of the uterus (womb). They vary in size—from less than an inch to more than six inches in diameter—and often go unnoticed. In fact, many women discover they have fibroids during a routine pelvic exam. While most fibroids don’t cause problems, others may lead to significant symptoms that affect quality of life.
Common Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids
- Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
- Pelvic pressure or pain (felt between the hips or radiating to the legs)
- Frequent urination
- Pain during intercourse
- Constipation or abdominal bloating
- Enlarged or protruding abdomen
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider to explore treatment options.
Treatment Options for Uterine Fibroids
Several treatment options are available depending on the size, number, and location of your fibroids, as well as your symptoms and future fertility goals.
Non-Surgical Treatments
- Medications: NSAIDs for pain, hormonal birth control, IUDs, hormone injections, and iron supplements for anemia
- High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU): Ultrasound waves target fibroid tissue through the abdomen to shrink the fibroids
- Endometrial Ablation: Removes the lining of the uterus to reduce heavy bleeding
- Radiofrequency Ablation: Delivers energy through a probe to destroy fibroid tissue
Surgical Options
- Myomectomy: Surgical removal of fibroids while preserving the uterus
- Hysterectomy: Complete surgical removal of the uterus; a permanent solution for fibroids
- Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE): A minimally invasive, non-surgical procedure that shrinks fibroids by cutting off their blood supply
Uterine Fibroid Embolization
Uterine Fibroid Embolization is a highly effective, minimally invasive alternative to surgery, performed by an Interventional Radiologist. UFE is an outpatient procedure, typically completed in under an hour, without the need for general anesthesia or a hospital stay. People can generally return to full activity within a week.
Benefits of Uterine Fibroid Embolization
- Minimally invasive – no surgical incision into the uterus
- No general anesthesia
- Preserves the uterus and ovaries
- Short recovery time
- Relief from symptoms without surgery
- Lower risk of complications compared to major surgery
- Outpatient procedure – no hospital stay required
Take the Next Step
If you’re experiencing symptoms of uterine fibroids or want to learn whether uterine fibroid embolization is right for you, contact us to schedule a consultation with our Interventional Radiology team.
Get Back To Feeling Great
Our whole team is here to help! Conrad Pearson strives to offer new patients an appointment within a week and for those with urgent needs, we offer same-day appointments.
