An Alternative to Surgery for Uterine Fibroids

About Uterine Fibroids

Uterine fibroids are benign, non-cancerous, growths — within or on the muscular walls of the uterus or womb. As many as 20 to 40 percent of women over the age of 35 have fibroids. They can be caused by a combination of genetic, hormonal or environmental factors; however the true cause is unknown. Typical symptoms include abdominal pain, pelvic pain, back pain, as well as heavy bleeding and pain during menstruation. Fibroids can also cause pressure symptoms such as constipation, frequent urination, pain with intercourse and infertility.

How are Fibroids Diagnosed?

If your symptoms and the results of a physical exam indicate fibroids could be present, then your doctor may order more tests for confirmation. Ultrasound is a painless procedure using sound waves to create pictures of the fibroids. MRI uses magnets and radio waves to create pictures and is very helpful in delineating the types and number of fibroids in the uterus. MRI can exclude other diagnoses such as adenomyosis or ovarian tumors. HSS (Saline Hysterosonography) uses saline which is inserted into the uterine lining to provide a better look at the lining and possible growths in the lining such as fibroids or polyps.

Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)
A Non-Surgical Treatment for Uterine Fibroid

Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) is a safe and effective alternative to surgery. A non-surgical, uterus sparing treatment, UFE blocks the blood supply to the fibroids causing them to shrink. UFE is clinically proven successful in reducing the major symptoms of fibroids, including pain, excessive and prolonged bleeding, and frequent urination. UFE is “minimally invasive,” requiring only a small incision in the skin. The procedure lasts approximately two hours, and most patients are back to work within one to two weeks.