Uterine Fibroids

Fibroids are fibrous growths (non-cancerous tumors) that grow in or around the uterus. They are most commonly diagnosed in women in their 30s and 40s but can also occur later in life. Women of African descent are up to three times more likely to develop them than women of other races.

Most women with fibroids do not experience symptoms and may not know they even have them. But for some women, the symptoms are severe enough to seek treatment. These women may experience heavy menstrual bleeding, prolonged periods, pelvic pain, pain during intercourse and other issues.

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What causes uterine fibroids?

It is not fully understood what causes fibroids to grow. However, female hormones (estrogen and progesterone) and genetics are believed to play an important role. Being overweight, stress, certain medications and vitamin D deficiency are also thought to be risk factors for developing fibroids.

What are my treatment options?

When a patient is diagnosed with symptomatic fibroids, many attempt conservative therapies. These can include medications (such as pain relievers), hormonal therapies (such as gonadotropin-releasing hormone or GnRH) and monitoring the fibroids.

Some doctors recommend surgical approaches. Myomectomy is the surgical removal of fibroids from the uterus. Hysterectomy is the removal of the entire uterus. However, surgery carries a number of risks, and thanks to advances in medicine, may no longer be required to treat most cases of fibroids.

Other less invasive procedures may only be partially effective at relieving fibroid symptoms. They require general anesthesia and are not able to treat all fibroids, which means there is a good chance they can return.

A new and minimally invasive procedure called uterine fibroid embolization (also called uterine artery embolization) has emerged as a viable option for most women with fibroids. It is an outpatient procedure, effectively treats fibroids with a very low chance of their return. It is recommended by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Click here if you’d like to take a quiz to see if you qualify for UFE.

You can learn more about uterine fibroid embolization or UFE by clicking here »

For more information about uterine fibroids and other treatment options offered by VISA, please visit our treatments page or contact us today to schedule a consultation.

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