Uterine fibroids are common, non-cancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus. While some women have fibroids without any symptoms, others may experience heavy or prolonged periods, pelvic pressure, pain, frequent urination, bloating or other symptoms that affect their quality of life.
If fibroids are causing problems, you may have several treatment options to consider. One of those options is uterine fibroid embolization (UFE), a minimally invasive procedure that treats fibroids without surgically removing the uterus.
In the video above, learn more about how UFE works and whether this approach may be an option for women with symptomatic uterine fibroids.
What Are Uterine Fibroids?
Uterine fibroids are benign growths that develop in the muscular wall of the uterus. They can vary in size and number, and their location can influence whether they cause symptoms.
Some women may never know they have fibroids. Others may develop symptoms that become increasingly difficult to manage.
Common symptoms of uterine fibroids can include:
- Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
- Pelvic pressure or pain
- Frequent urination
- Abdominal bloating or enlargement
- Constipation
- Pain during intercourse
- Fatigue related to heavy menstrual bleeding or anemia
Having symptoms does not necessarily mean that treatment is needed. Your healthcare provider can help determine whether your symptoms are related to fibroids and whether treatment may be appropriate.
What Treatment Options Are Available for Fibroids?
There is no single treatment that works best for every woman with uterine fibroids. The right approach depends on several factors, including the size, number and location of the fibroids, the symptoms they are causing, your overall health and your personal treatment goals.
Some women may not need treatment at all, particularly when fibroids are not causing noticeable symptoms. In these cases, a healthcare provider may recommend monitoring the fibroids over time.
When treatment is needed, options can range from medications that help manage symptoms to minimally invasive procedures and surgery. Depending on your individual situation, treatment may include hormonal medications, radiofrequency ablation, high-intensity focused ultrasound, myomectomy, hysterectomy or uterine fibroid embolization (UFE).
Each option works differently. Some treatments focus on controlling symptoms, while others target or remove the fibroids themselves. UFE is different because it reduces the blood supply to the fibroids, allowing them to gradually shrink. Talking with a healthcare provider about your symptoms and treatment goals can help you understand which options may be appropriate for you.
How Does Uterine Fibroid Embolization Work?
Uterine fibroid embolization takes a different approach from surgery. Rather than removing the fibroid, UFE works by reducing the blood supply that feeds it. Without the same blood supply, the fibroid gradually shrinks, which can help improve symptoms.
During the procedure, an interventional radiologist uses a small catheter inserted through an artery, often through the wrist or upper leg. Using live imaging, the catheter is carefully guided to the blood vessels supplying the fibroid.
Tiny particles are then delivered through the catheter to reduce blood flow to the fibroid. The catheter is removed afterward, leaving only a small access site. The goal is to target the fibroid while preserving the uterus and healthy surrounding tissue.
What Are the Benefits of UFE?
Because UFE is minimally invasive, it can offer an alternative to major surgery for appropriately selected patients.
Potential benefits include:
- No major surgical incision into the uterus
- No general anesthesia
- Outpatient treatment
- A relatively short recovery period
- Preservation of the uterus and ovaries
- Relief from symptoms caused by fibroids
At Conrad Pearson Clinic, UFE is typically completed in under an hour. Patients can generally return to full activity within about a week, although recovery can vary from person to person.
Is UFE Right for Everyone?
UFE is not appropriate for every woman with uterine fibroids. Your healthcare provider will consider factors such as the size, number and location of your fibroids, your symptoms, medical history and treatment goals when determining whether UFE may be a good option.
It’s also important to understand that UFE is one of several possible treatments. Depending on your circumstances, another minimally invasive treatment or surgery may be more appropriate. If you have been diagnosed with fibroids or are experiencing symptoms that may be related to them, discussing your options with a healthcare provider can help you make an informed decision.
Learn More About Uterine Fibroid Embolization
Living with symptomatic uterine fibroids can be frustrating, but treatment does not always mean major surgery. Uterine fibroid embolization offers a minimally invasive option that can shrink fibroids while preserving the uterus.
At Conrad Pearson Clinic, our Interventional Radiology team offers UFE for appropriately selected patients. If uterine fibroids are affecting your quality of life, talk with your healthcare provider about whether uterine fibroid embolization may be right for you.
