Fibroid Treatment

Uterine Fibroid Treatment

Uterine fibroids are a common but often misunderstood condition that affects up to 70-80% of women by the age of 50worldwide. These noncancerous growths, also known as leiomyomas or myomas, develop within or around the walls of the uterus. While fibroids are rarely life-threatening, they can profoundly impact your health, comfort, and quality of life.

A variety of fibroid treatments are available, but women with fibroids often are not informed of all their options. As a result, the majority think that hysterectomy is their only option.

At USA Fibroid Centers, we are national leaders in the diagnosis and treatment of uterine fibroids, offering a advanced, non-surgical solution with UFE that prioritize your health, safety, and future fertility. With a commitment to evidence-based care and compassionate support, we have helped thousands of women find relief from fibroid symptoms and regain control of their lives.

What is the Best Treatment for Fibroids?

Several treatments are available for uterine fibroids, including myomectomy (surgical removal of fibroids), hysterectomy (removal of the uterus), endometrial ablation (destroying the uterine lining to control bleeding), medications or hormonal therapy to manage symptoms, and MRI-guided focused ultrasound (a non-invasive but less widely available option). The right choice depends on your symptoms, fibroid size and location, and whether you want to preserve fertility.

While each method has its place depending on a woman’s needs and health goals, at USA Fibroid Centers we focus on Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE). UFE is a safe, minimally invasive procedure that effectively shrinks fibroids, relieves symptoms in over 90% of patients, and  most importantly  allows women to avoid the risks, scarring, and extended recovery time associated with surgery while preserving the uterus and future fertility.

Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)

At USA Fibroid Centers, we specialize in the effective, non-surgical fibroid treatment option called Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE). UFE is an alternative to fibroid surgeries like a hysterectomy or myomectomy.  It also referred to as Uterine Artery Embolization and is effective for treating fibroids of all sizes as well as a treatment for adenomyosis.

How UFE Works

During UFE, an interventional radiologist inserts a tiny catheter into an artery in your wrist or groin. Using real-time imaging, the physician guides the catheter to the uterine arteries that feed your fibroids. Small particles are then injected to block blood flow to the fibroids, causing them to shrink and die over time.

This precise approach targets the fibroids while preserving healthy uterine tissue, making UFE an excellent alternative to surgery.

Benefits of UFE as a fibroid treatment option include:

• Eliminating pain symptoms, including heavy bleeding, cramping, pelvic pain, and bloating.
• Protects fertility by leaving the uterus intact.
• Outpatient, same-day fibroid treatment allows you to recover at home.
• No scarring from incisions.
• Quicker recovery than invasive options.
• High success rate

SCHEDULE AN INITIAL CONSULTATION

UFE at USA Fibroid Centers

Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) is an effective, minimally-invasive, outpatient fibroid treatment that is performed by specialized interventional radiologists.  UFE requires no surgery, and leaves the uterus and ovaries intact allowing you retain your fertility. UFE is approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA),  and is is a gentle procedure with a quick recovery time of one to two weeks.

The First Step: Fibroid Consultation

A fibroid consultation is the first step towards taking control. Think of it as a friendly chat with a fibroid health expert, where you can openly discuss your symptoms and concerns.

During the consultation you will be able to:

• Share your story: Tell the doctor about your symptoms, how they’re affecting your life, and any questions you have.
• Review your medical history: This helps the doctor understand your overall health and potential risk factors.
• Get a physical exam: A gentle pelvic exam can help assess the size and location of your fibroids.
• Get or discuss imaging results: The doctor will review ultrasounds or MRIs to get a clearer picture of the size and location of your fibroids.
• Explore treatment options: Based on your individual situation, the doctor will discuss all available options.
• Get a second opinion: Fibroids can sometimes be mistaken for other conditions, such as ovarian cysts or endometriosis. A second opinion can help confirm the diagnosis and ensure that you are receiving the appropriate treatment.

The purpose of a  fibroid consultation is to empower you with information and a personalized plan. You’ll leave feeling heard, understood, and confident about the next steps towards managing your fibroids and reclaiming your well-being. Our fibroid experts will recommend the best procedure based on your personal preferences, health and size and location of your fibroids.

Talk With A Fibroid Expert

The Second Step: Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE Procedure)

In less than an hour, UFE uses light sedation to help you relax and feel comfortable throughout. General anesthesia is not required.  Before the UFE procedure, your fibroids are located using an advanced ultrasound in a process called fibroid mapping. Here’s what you can expect:

• After your thigh or wrist is numbed, a small tiny nick is made in your groin or wrist.
• Using a thin, flexible tube (a catheter) is gently guided into the artery responsible for supplying blood flow to the fibroid.
• Small particles are released through the catheter to block up the artery.
• Once blood flow is cut off, the fibroids  begin to shrink and eventually die.
• Any remaining fibroid tissue is naturally reabsorbed by the body. 
• Because the injected particles remain at the site, it is unlikely that fibroids will return in the future.
• You go home with just a small bandage.

The Third Step: Recovering from UFE 

After Uterine Fibroid Embolization, you can return home the same day to begin your recovery. Most women are able to return to normal, daily activities in a short amount of time. During recovery, you may experience mild cramps, nausea, fever, vaginal discharge or spotting.  Most women are able to resume their normal activities within two weeks of the procedure.

Some individuals, particularly those with large fibroids, may notice weight loss after UFE. You may skip your first period after UFE, or even a couple periods. Or, you may menstruate sooner than usual.

Complications are a rare occurrence following a UFE procedure. We encourage you to check in with any questions you may have about your recovery.

Fibroid Removal Surgeries

While USA Fibroid Centers and our team of interventional radiologists perform UFE at our outpatient fibroid centers across the country, we discuss all fibroid treatment options to ensure we our patients explore and fully understand fibroid treatment.

Below, we explain the differences in other procedures offered to help patients understand and gain knowledge on their options for fibroid treatment.

HYSTERECTOMY

Hysterectomy , the surgical removal of the uterus, is often presented as a solution for uterine fibroids. However, this major surgery carries significant lifelong consequences that deserve careful consideration before making any decisions.  Discussing your full range of options with a fibroid specialist is important before making any decisions when comparing your uterine fibroid treatment options, especially surgical vs non-surgical.

There are two main types of hysterectomies: total, which removes the entire uterus and cervix, and subtotal, which leaves the cervix in place. For women who still desire pregnancy, losing the uterus can be challenging.

A hysterectomy usually lasts about one to two hours and a hospital stay is usually required for close monitoring. As with any major surgery, some risks exist, such as infection, bleeding, or reactions to anesthesia. However, most patients recover well under proper care.

By carefully considering all options and discussing them with a trusted healthcare professional, you can make an informed decision about the best treatment path for your individual situation.

RECOVERY AND SIDE EFFECTS OF HYSTERECTOMY

Recovery: Compared to fibroid treatments like UFE, a hysterectomy recovery typically requires six to eight weeks. During recovery, you may experience physical restrictions and and be unable to drive while taking prescription pain medications.

Menopause for pre-menopausal women: Hysterectomy removes the ovaries, triggering immediate menopause and its associated symptoms like hot flashes, insomnia, and mood swings. The the average age of menopause in the U.S.  is 51, but fibroids are commonly diagnosed most often during a woman’s reproductive years.

Other risks: Compared to minimally invasive options, hysterectomy carries a higher risk of infection, excessive bleeding, and blood clots.

Loss of future pregnancy: Hysterectomy eliminates the possibility of future pregnancies.

Difference Between Removing and Shrinking Fibroids

MYOMECTOMY

Some women may be candidates for myomectomy, another type of fibroid surgery which can remove fibroids from the uterus. Many of the surgical risks are the same as those that occur with a hysterectomy. These include excessive bleeding, infection, blood clots, and an adverse reaction to general anesthesia. Women often lose more blood during a myomectomy than a hysterectomy, which can be concerning since many women with fibroids are already experiencing low blood counts. After surgery, it is possible to develop issues from related uterine scar tissue.

Although the uterus is left in place with myomectomy surgery, you may be at increased risk of future pregnancy or childbirth complications. Most women require a C-section delivery after a myomectomy. Myomectomies may also impact the ability to conceive due to postoperative scaring and adhesions.

Why Choose USA Fibroid Centers

With a reputation as the nation’s leading provider of UFE, USA Fibroid Centers brings unmatched expertise, state-of-the-art technology, and patient-centered care to every appointment. Here’s why patients trust us:

• Qualified interventional radiologists with extensive experience performing UFE

• A network of expert outpatient fibroid treatment centers across the United States

• Personalized treatment plans designed around your symptoms, goals, and lifestyle

• Compassionate staff dedicated to guiding you through every step of your journey and hearing your symptoms

• Acceptance of most major insurance plans, along with flexible self-pay options

Schedule a consultation online today to meet with one of our top fibroid specialists and learn more about Uterine Fibroid Embolization. Most major insurances are accepted and we also offer affordable self-pay options.