How Uterine Fibroid Embolization Can Improve Quality of Life for Women

Introduction

Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous tumors that develop in the uterus. Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a catheter to block blood flow to the fibroids, causing them to shrink and eventually die off. The procedure can be performed on an outpatient basis, with patients returning home the same day as their treatment.

UFE has been shown to improve quality of life for women who suffer from symptoms caused by uterine fibroids including heavy bleeding, pain during sex or urination, constipation and fatigue.

The Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids

• Heavy menstrual bleeding

• Pelvic pain

• Pain during intercourse

• Frequent urination and constipation are also common symptoms of uterine fibroids.

The Causes of Uterine Fibroids

Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous tumors that grow in the uterus. They can cause painful heavy menstrual bleeding, infertility and other complications. Uterine fibroids develop when the cells in your uterus multiply abnormally, which is why they're also called uterine myomas or leiomyomas.
The exact cause of uterine fibroids isn't known but they may be related to hormonal imbalances and genetics as well as age, race or obesity.

Uterine Fibroid Embolization Procedure

• Before the Procedure

  The first step is to have a thorough evaluation to determine if UFE is right for you. The doctor will ask about your symptoms, review your medical history and perform a physical examination of your abdomen. If uterine fibroids are diagnosed, an ultrasound will be performed. This painless test uses sound waves to create images of the uterus on a computer screen.

   

• During the Procedure

  The doctor will inject a contrast dye into your arm, which helps him or her see the fibroids more clearly. The dye also helps the doctor guide a small catheter through your veins and arteries to where the uterine arteries are located. Next, a tiny straw-like tube called an embolization catheter is inserted into each uterine artery.

   

• After the Procedure

  The doctor will remove the catheters and place a small band around each one. This seals off the blood vessels and blocks the flow of blood to the fibroids—which is how they shrink. You may feel some cramping for a few hours after the procedure. This is normal, and it usually goes away within 24 hours. You may also experience some mild vaginal bleeding or spotting for a few days after your surgery. If you have heavy bleeding that lasts longer than a week, contact your doctor immediately. He or she will monitor you closely to make sure that any blood loss is not excessive.

   

Benefits of Uterine Fibroid Embolization

• Reduction of symptoms. Uterine fibroids can cause heavy bleeding, pain and pressure in the pelvic area. After uterine fibroid embolization, many women experience an improvement or complete resolution of these symptoms.

   

• Improvement in quality of life. Fibroids can cause a number of problems that negatively impact your daily life, including heavy menstrual bleeding and pain during intercourse (dyspareunia). Because uterine fibroid embolization is minimally invasive and has a faster recovery time than surgical options such as hysterectomy or myomectomy, you may be able to return to work sooner after treatment than if you had chosen another method for removing your fibroids.

   

• Minimally invasive procedure - The procedure itself only takes about 30 minutes and does not require general anesthesia.* Faster recovery time - Because it's less invasive than surgery or other treatments like oral contraceptive pills or hormone therapy drugs such as Lupron Depot , there are fewer side effects associated with this treatment option.

   

• Cost-effectiveness - Compared with other methods used to treat uterine fibroids such as hysterectomy or myomectomy , uterine artery embolization costs less while providing similar results because there is no need for follow-up surgery after treatment has been completed

Uterine Fibroid Embolization and Fertility

Uterine fibroid embolization is a minimally invasive procedure that preserves fertility. It's important to note that the success rate of preserving fertility depends on the type of uterine fibroids you have and their size.

Fertility preservation is an important consideration for women who are considering uterine fibroid embolization. While there are no known risks associated with this procedure when it comes to future pregnancies, it's still important for patients to discuss their options with their doctor before undergoing any type of treatment for their condition.

Conclusion

If you are experiencing the symptoms of uterine fibroids, it's important to get checked out by your doctor. Uterine fibroid embolization can be an effective treatment option for many women who are suffering from this condition. The procedure is non-invasive and has few side effects, so it may be worth speaking with your health care provider if you're looking for relief from your symptoms.