What is Uterine Fibroid Embolization?
For women who experience symptoms of uterine fibroids, the treatment options may be limited. Traditionally, uterine fibroid removal can require invasive surgery and significant downtime. Fortunately, uterine fibroid embolization is a new option that can provide a much easier, less stressful experience for uterine fibroids. Here is what to know about this minimally invasive option available at South Florida Vascular Associates, the leading vascular care provider in the greater Coconut Creek, Boynton Beach, and Plantation, FL areas.
What Are Uterine Fibroids?
Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths made of muscle and connective tissue that occur on the walls of the uterus. Many women experience uterine fibroids, but they are very small and don’t cause symptoms. Some women, however, can experience significant symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pain, problems urinating, and difficulty enjoying sex. They may even grow inside the cavity of the uterus, impacting fertility.
It’s unknown exactly what causes uterine fibroids, although it’s thought that hormones may play a role, as they may grow and shrink with hormone cycles. They’re most common in women of reproductive age and don’t often occur before first menstruation. Some of the most prevalent risk factors for uterine fibroids are a family history, early onset of menstruation, late onset of menopause, and not having any children.
How Does Uterine Fibroid Embolization Work?
Because uterine fibroids are small growths, they can be treated by targeting the nearby blood supply. Uterine fibroid embolization works by inserting a tiny catheter into the femoral artery through an entry point in the groin. It travels through the blood vessels using X-ray guidance to locate the branches supplying the fibroids and inject tiny particles. These particles block off blood flow to the fibroids, causing them to shrink and die off.
What are the Benefits of Uterine Fibroid Embolization?
The biggest benefit of uterine fibroid embolization is that it’s significantly less invasive than traditional surgical options, which often include general anesthesia – and may even necessitate the full removal of the uterus (hysterectomy). Most women return to regular activities within one to two weeks after uterine fibroid embolization. Recovery typically requires only pain medication and anti-inflammatory drugs and requires very few restrictions. Finally, uterine fibroid embolization is very effective, and many women find significant relief from symptoms in the weeks and months after treatment.
Uterine Fibroid Embolization in Plantation, FL
Uterine fibroid embolization is a cutting-edge new option in women’s health. If you’re struggling with uterine fibroids, you don’t have to make the difficult choice to get traditional open surgery. To learn more, we encourage you to meet with our team of vascular specialists. Contact us through our online form to schedule an appointment.