Fibroid Expulsion
Fibroid expulsion is a term that describes when uterine fibroids pass out of the body. Although this may sound unpleasant, our experts at USA Fibroid Centers want you to know that this is a rare occurrence that does not usually cause any serious issues.
When fibroid expulsion does occur, it typically follows Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE). UFE is a minimally invasive, outpatient treatment that can shrink fibroids and alleviate related symptoms like heavy menstrual bleeding and severe cramps.
Below, we share important information about fibroid expulsion after UFE. If you have additional questions, our leading fibroid specialists are available to answer them.
What Is Fibroid Expulsion?
Fibroid expulsion is the process in which fibroids pass from the uterus, through the vagina, and out of the body. Fibroid sloughing is also a term used when trying to understand expulsion. It can be complete, meaning that the entire fibroid passes through, or partial, when only pieces of a fibroid are expelled.
A small percentage of women experience uterine fibroid expulsion after undergoing Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE). Very rarely, natural fibroid expulsion (not following UFE treatment) can also occur.
Are Fibroids Expelled After UFE?
If you are considering UFE treatment, you may be concerned about fibroid expulsion. Fibroid expulsion is considered a rare complication of Uterine Fibroid Embolization. It only occurs in 1-10% of cases.
To better understand why fibroid expulsion after UFE can occur, it may be helpful to discuss how this state-of-the-art treatment works.
During UFE treatment:
- We provide a light sedative and local anesthesia so that you can remain calm and comfortable the entire time
- Our fibroid specialists locate your fibroids using advanced ultrasound technology
- Next, we numb your upper thigh, make a small incision, and insert a tiny catheter
- Using real-time imaging, we guide the catheter into the uterine artery that supplies blood to fibroids
- Finally, we inject embolic materials into the artery to block the blood flow to your fibroids
In most cases, targeted fibroids begin to shrink once cut off from their blood supply. Fibroid tissue is then naturally absorbed by the body over time. In rare cases, the body instead expels the tissue.
If you believe you are experiencing fibroid expulsion, we recommend contacting your fibroid specialist as soon as possible.
TALK TO OUR FIBROID SPECIALISTS
What Should You Know About Fibroid Expulsion After UFE?
Fibroid expulsion is most likely to occur within three months of UFE. Submucosal fibroids, or fibroids located within the innermost lining of the uterus, present the greatest likelihood of post-UFE expulsion.
Although it is unusual for fibroid expulsion to cause serious issues, we want you to be aware that it can place you at risk for excessive bleeding, infection, and additional complications.
It is also important to know that surgery is sometimes necessary after fibroid expulsion if the involved fibroid remains partially attached to the uterus. Another potential reason for surgery is if a severe infection develops that doesn’t respond to antibiotics.
If you have concerns about complications following UFE, we encourage you to raise them with your fibroid specialist.
What Is Fibroid Expulsion Discharge?
During and after fibroid expulsion, vaginal discharge may be present. This can develop as a result of natural expulsion or expulsion after UFE. Along with fibroid expulsion discharge, some women pass pieces of fibroid tissue or a complete expelled fibroid.
If you are experiencing discharge that has an unpleasant odor, contact your doctor immediately, as this may indicate infection.
Learn More About Fibroid Expulsion at USA Fibroid Centers
At USA Fibroid Centers, we understand that choosing the best fibroid treatment for your unique situation can be challenging. We care about your quality of life and are available to help you explore your full range of treatment options.
Our specialists perform Uterine Fibroid Embolization, a minimally invasive, outpatient fibroid treatment that can quickly alleviate fibroid symptoms like heavy bleeding, severe cramps, frequent urination, and low energy levels. UFE does not involve surgery, a hospital stay, or lengthy recovery. Most women can return to normal daily activities within one to two weeks.
To explore your full range of treatment options, request a consultation with one of our leading fibroid specialists online. We offer expert fibroid care in dozens of treatment centers across the USA, along with convenient telemedicine options.
