What to do about uterine fibroids causing symptoms?
Uterine fibroids affect millions of women worldwide, often leading to symptoms that disrupt everyday life. At EndoVascular Consultants, we're dedicated to providing advanced, minimally invasive solutions like Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) that offer significant relief without the need for major surgery.
Understanding Uterine Fibroids
Uterine fibroids are benign tumors that develop within the uterus. While non-cancerous, these fibroids can cause significant discomfort and complications such as heavy menstrual bleeding, frequent urination, and pelvic pain.
Symptoms and Challenges
The presence of fibroids can dramatically alter a woman's quality of life. Symptoms may include prolonged, heavy menstrual periods, urinary frequency, severe pelvic and/or lower back pain, pain during intercourse and complications during pregnancy. Women with fibroids might experience:
Persistent pelvic pain: The hardening of fibroids can lead to continuous and intense pelvic discomfort.
Menstrual irregularities: Heavy and prolonged menstrual bleeding is common, often leading to anemia.
Urinary issues: Frequent urination or difficulty emptying the bladder due to pressure on adjacent organs.
Reproductive problems: Difficulty in conceiving or complications during pregnancy can arise due to the presence of fibroids.
Why Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) is a Preferred Treatment
Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) is a preferred treatment for uterine fibroids due to several compelling reasons that make it an attractive alternative to traditional surgical methods like hysterectomy.Â
The Procedure Explained
UFE is a groundbreaking, minimally invasive procedure performed by skilled interventional radiologists. It involves making a small incision in the groin to introduce a catheter into the uterine artery. Tiny particles are then injected through this catheter to block the blood supply to the fibroids, causing them to shrink and lessen the symptoms. The procedure usually takes about 1 hour and is performed under local anesthesia with sedation, allowing for a faster recovery and less post-procedural pain.
Recovery and Aftercare for UFE: Post-Procedure Recovery
UFE is an outpatient procedure and patients return home usually a couple hours after the procedure. Recovery typically involves a brief period of rest followed by a gradual return to normal activities within 1 to 2 weeks. Many women experience a noticeable reduction in fibroid symptoms within the first few months after the procedure. It is common to feel tired and have cramping for a few days following the treatment, but these symptoms generally subside quickly.
Advantages of UFE
One of the most significant benefits of UFE is its high satisfaction rate—over 90% of patients report substantial relief from symptoms. Compared to hysterectomy, which involves the removal of the uterus, UFE offers a less invasive alternative with fewer complications, shorter recovery time, and no need for hospital stays. Additional advantages include:
Preservation of the uterus: Unlike a hysterectomy, UFE allows women to retain their uterus, which is particularly important for those who wish to conceive in the future.
Minimal scarring: The procedure requires only a tiny nick in the skin at the groin crease, resulting in virtually no visible scarring.
Quick recovery: Most patients can return to their normal activities within 1 to 2 weeks, significantly faster than the recovery period for major surgeries.
Reduced pain: Post-procedural pain can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relief.
Why Choose EndoVascular Consultants for Your UFE?
Led by Dr. Mark Garcia, our team at EndoVascular Consultants brings over two decades of specialized experience in UFE as well as in interventional radiology to your care. Dr. Garcia's expertise in UFE and dedication to patient care ensure that you receive the best possible outcomes.
Patient-Centric Care
At EndoVascular Consultants, we prioritize your health and comfort. From the initial consultation through recovery, our team provides comprehensive support and guidance, ensuring your treatment journey is as smooth and comfortable as possible. We understand that dealing with fibroids can be distressing with quality of life and activity limitations, and our goal is to provide a solution that enhances your quality of life with minimal disruption.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
EndoVascular Consultants is committed to empowering women with effective treatment options for uterine fibroids. By choosing UFE, you opt for a safe, effective, and minimally invasive solution. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you achieve lasting relief. Our mission is to enhance your well-being with treatments that are both scientifically advanced and compassionately delivered, ensuring that you can enjoy a life free from the burdens of fibroids.
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