Uterine Fibroids (Leiomyomas)

Uterine fibroids are benign growths that develop within or along the wall of the uterus. They can range in size from very small nodules to larger masses that enlarge and distort the uterus. Fibroids are common, affecting the majority of women at some point during their lives.

Many women experience no symptoms. For others, the size and location of fibroids can lead to significant disruption, including:

Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
Pelvic pain, discomfort or cramping
Frequent urination or difficulty emptying the bladder
Pain during intercourse
Pain in the lower back or legs

Because fibroids are hormonally responsive, symptoms often fluctuate with the menstrual cycle and may worsen during periods.

What causes uterine fibroids?

The exact cause of fibroids is not known, nor are the reasons why some women have fibroids that grow to a large size and cause symptoms. However, fibroids are linked to genetics (family history), age and being overweight. African American women are at the highest risk for developing them. 25% will experience them between 18 and 30, and 60% will develop fibroids by age 35. Asian women and Hispanic women also have an elevated risk of developing fibroids.

Treatment options

There are several treatment options for women experiencing the symptoms of uterine fibroids.

Conservative treatment

If symptoms are not severe, or do not occur regularly, a “conservative” approach may be recommended by your doctor. This can include medications or supplements, progestin injections and the placement of intrauterine devices (IUDs) to control discomfort and bleeding.

Surgical options

To treat fibroids, two surgical options are available. Hysterectomy is the surgical removal of the uterus. Myomectomy is the surgical removal of fibroids from the uterus. The drawbacks to hysterectomy include the loss of the uterus, surgical risks, the potential for early menopause (even without ovary removal) and the recovery from the surgery. While myomectomy preserves the uterus, it is still a surgical procedure with associated risks and recovery time, and fibroids may recur over the following years.

Endometrial ablation

This minimally invasive procedure removes the uterine lining to reduce bleeding. It is generally appropriate only for select patients with smaller fibroids and does not treat larger or deeply embedded fibroids.

Hormone therapy

Hormone therapy is another option to treat the symptoms of uterine fibroid. However, hormone therapy is not recommended for the long term, because it can result in menopause-like symptoms and bone loss. Discontinuing hormone therapy will result in fibroids returning, so it is only a short-term solution.

Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE)

Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) is a minimally invasive, image-guided treatment performed by interventional radiologists. Using a small catheter placed through the bloodstream, tiny particles are delivered to selectively reduce blood flow to the fibroids. Over time, the fibroids shrink and symptoms improve.

UFE preserves the uterus, avoids open surgery, and is typically performed on an outpatient basis. It is supported by extensive clinical research and is recognized by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) as a safe and effective treatment option for appropriately selected women.

For many patients, UFE offers a durable alternative to surgery with a shorter recovery and high rates of symptom relief.

To learn more about uterine fibroid embolization, please visit our UFE treatment page or contact us today to schedule a consultation.

Uterine Fibroid Embolization