Are you tired of living with the symptoms of multiple fibroids? Discover how UFE can provide relief without the need for invasive surgery.
Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) is a minimally invasive treatment for multiple fibroids. This procedure directly targets single or multiple fibroids, reducing their size and alleviating symptoms.
Common fibroid symptoms include heavy menstrual bleeding and pelvic pain, and having multiple fibroids can worsen these issues. If you’re experiencing these symptoms and think you may have fibroids, consulting a fibroid specialist at USA Fibroid Centers will help determine the best treatment option for you.
What is Uterine Fibroid Embolization?
Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) treats fibroids by cutting off the blood supply to the arteries that feed them so that they shrink and die. This procedure is a non-surgical option for women with fibroids, offering significant symptom relief and a shorter recovery time compared to surgery.
Can UFE Treat More Than One Fibroid?
UFE is one of the best options for treating more than one fibroid because it targets the blood supply for all fibroids present during the procedure. This means that UFE can address fibroids of varying types and sizes, including fibroids that are difficult to remove surgically.
Research conducted by the American Society of Reproductive Medicine shows that UFE effectively reduces fibroid size and relieves symptoms like heavy bleeding and pelvic pain.¹
Advantages of UFE for Multiple Fibroids
UFE offers advantages over other treatment options for multiple fibroids. Other options range from medications, such as pain relievers and hormonal therapies, to surgical methods, such as myomectomy and hysterectomy.
The benefits of UFE include:
- Minimally invasive procedure: Unlike myomectomy or hysterectomy, UFE does not require large incisions, minimizing scarring and recovery time.
- Quick Recovery Time: Patients usually can go home the same day, and most resume normal activities within a week or two.
- Preserve the uterus: Unlike hysterectomy, which permanently removes the uterus, UFE preserves it, making it the preferred choice for women wanting to maintain fertility.
- Significant symptom relief: UFE has high success rates in providing symptom relief from heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, and pressure.
For these reasons, and because it can efficiently treat all fibroids in a single procedure, UFE is considered one of the best treatment options by some gynecologic societies, such as the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)
ACOG also notes that UFE is generally well-tolerated and has a low risk of complications for women with multiple fibroids.
Find Relief Today – Book Online
What to Expect During and After UFE for Multiple Fibroids
While some preparation is necessary before undergoing UFE, the procedure itself is straightforward. The process typically takes 30 minutes, though it may take longer depending on how many fibroids are treated.
Before the UFE procedure begins, fibroid mapping is used to locate and measure the fibroids accurately. This helps the interventional radiologists plan the procedure and ensure that all the fibroids are treated effectively.
After identifying the fibroids, the doctor supplies the artery with blood. Small particles are injected into the artery, cutting off the fibroid’s oxygen and nutrient supply. This deprivation shrinks the fibroids, and they eventually die.
Over time, the body naturally reabsorbs the fibroid tissue. Since the particles remain at the treatment site, the fibroids are unlikely to return.
Recovery After UFE Multiple Fibroid Treatment
Recovery from UFE is generally quick and smooth, with the potential for mild symptoms. These symptoms are typically managed with over-the-counter medications and can include:
- Cramping
- Nausea
- Fever
- Vaginal discharge or spotting
Most women resume light activities within a few days, although heavy lifting or strenuous exercise should be avoided for about a week. Most patients return to their routines within two weeks, including work and regular physical activities.
Symptom relief, such as a reduction in heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, and pressure, typically begins within a few weeks and continues improving over the following months as the fibroids shrink. Recovery time and symptom relief may take longer when multiple fibroids are treated at the same time.
Changes in the menstrual cycle, such as missed periods or an earlier-than-expected return of menstruation, are common but usually temporary.
“USA Fibroid Centers changed my life. The staff was incredibly supportive, and the doctors were knowledgeable and compassionate. I highly recommend their services.” – Ruby P. New York
Find Relief from Multiple Fibroids
If you are seeking treatment for more than one fibroid, consulting a fibroid specialist at USA Fibroid Centers is the best way to determine if UFE is the right treatment. Our team of expert interventional radiologists provides the information and support you need to make an informed decision about your health.
Learn more about UFE by scheduling a consultation with USA Fibroid Centers at 855.615.2555 or using our online portal to verify your insurance in real-time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do You Shrink Multiple Fibroids?
Options for treating multiple fibroids at once include minimally invasive procedures like uterine fibroid embolization, hormonal therapies such as GnRH agonists, and surgical options like myomectomy and hysterectomy.
Consult a fibroid specialist to determine the best treatment for multiple fibroids based on your needs.
Can Multiple Fibroids be Treated Using UFE?
Yes, uterine fibroid embolization can effectively treat multiple fibroids at the same time. UFE targets the arteries that supply blood to the fibroids, causing fibroids to shrink and die. Cutting off this blood supply at the source means multiple fibroids can be targeted during the same procedure.
How to Treat Multiple Fibroids?
Treating multiple fibroids at once depends on the fibroids’ physical characteristics and the patient’s health goals. For example, if you plan on having children, surgeries like hysterectomies are not the best option since they involve removing the uterus.
However, UFE shrinks fibroids while preserving the uterus, whereas hormonal therapy only offers temporary relief to the fibroids.
Get Directions to a Clinic Near You
Can Multiple Fibroids be Removed Without Surgery?
There are a few options for multiple fibroid treatments without surgery, including temporary relief through hormonal therapy and medication. However, UFE targets multiple fibroids without surgery and has numerous long-term benefits compared to hormonal therapy.
Can UFE be Repeated if Fibroids Return?
UFE is effective at treating fibroids, and it is uncommon for the fibroids to return. However, repeat UFE treatment is possible. In cases where symptoms reappear due to new fibroid growth or incomplete treatment of existing fibroids, consult a fibroid specialist to evaluate whether another round of UFE is right for you.
H3 Is UFE Effective for Large Clusters of Fibroids?
UFE can be used to treat large clusters of fibroids since it targets the blood supply to the fibroids. This process allows for treating multiple fibroids in one procedure, making it beneficial to women with numerous or larger fibroids that are difficult to remove surgically. While UFE is generally effective, the size and number of fibroids impact the speed of symptom relief and fibroid shrinkage.
Sources
- Martyna Czarnik, et al., “Embolization for the Treatment of Large, Complex Fibroids in an Outpatient Setting: A Report of 2 Cases,” Radiology Case Reports, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9813576/
