For many women, hearing they have uterine fibroids brings a flood of worry and uncertainty. Fibroids, noncancerous growths that form in the uterus, are incredibly common, yet the treatment options can feel limited and intimidating. Historically, many patients were told that a hysterectomy, the complete removal of the uterus, was the only way to find relief. However, medical advancements have provided an alternative that allows women to treat fibroids effectively without surgery.
One such breakthrough treatment is uterine fibroid embolization in Springfield, VA a minimally invasive procedure designed to shrink fibroids and relieve symptoms while preserving the uterus. UFE offers hope for women seeking relief from pain, heavy bleeding, and other fibroid-related symptoms without undergoing major surgery or long recovery times.
Understanding Uterine Fibroids
Uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomas, are benign growths that develop within or around the walls of the uterus. They can vary in size, from small, barely detectable nodules to large masses that distort the uterus. Although fibroids are noncancerous, they can cause a range of symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain or pressure, bloating, and urinary frequency. Some women may also experience fatigue or anemia from blood loss.
Fibroids are influenced by hormones, particularly estrogen and progesterone, which is why they often grow during reproductive years and shrink after menopause. Despite being common, many women are unaware they have them until symptoms become disruptive.
The Traditional Approach: Surgery Isn’t the Only Option
For decades, hysterectomy was considered the most definitive solution for fibroids. While effective at removing fibroids, it also eliminates the uterus, ending fertility and potentially affecting hormonal balance and emotional well-being. Some women are not ready, or medically suited, for such a life-altering surgery.
Myomectomy, another surgical option, removes fibroids while leaving the uterus intact but still requires general anesthesia, hospital time, and a significant recovery period. For women seeking a less invasive option, UFE provides an effective, uterus-sparing alternative.
What Is Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)?
Uterine fibroid embolization is a minimally invasive procedure performed by an interventional radiologist. Instead of removing fibroids surgically, UFE cuts off their blood supply. Through a tiny incision, a catheter is guided into the uterine arteries, where microscopic particles are injected to block the blood flow feeding the fibroids.
Deprived of oxygen and nutrients, the fibroids gradually shrink over time, relieving symptoms such as heavy bleeding, cramping, and pressure. The uterus remains intact, and most patients return home the same day or after a short hospital stay.
Benefits of Choosing UFE
UFE offers numerous benefits that make it an appealing choice for many women. The most significant is that it preserves the uterus while providing long-term relief from fibroid symptoms. Other advantages include:
- Minimally invasive – Only a small incision is needed, reducing risk and scarring.
- Quick recovery – Most women return to normal activities within one to two weeks.
- Effective results – Studies show that more than 90% of women experience significant symptom improvement.
- No general anesthesia – The procedure typically uses local anesthesia with sedation.
- Lower risk of complications – Compared to surgical options, UFE carries fewer risks and a shorter recovery time.
For women who want to maintain their uterus and avoid the challenges of surgery, UFE represents a safe and effective option.
Who Is a Good Candidate for UFE?
UFE may be ideal for women who experience significant fibroid symptoms but want to avoid hysterectomy or myomectomy. Candidates typically include those who:
- Have symptomatic fibroids causing pain, heavy bleeding, or pressure
- Are not planning future pregnancies but wish to keep their uterus
- Are looking for a faster recovery with minimal downtime
- Have not responded well to medications or hormonal therapy
A consultation with a qualified interventional radiologist is the best way to determine if UFE is the right treatment. During this evaluation, imaging studies help assess fibroid size, number, and location to ensure the best outcomes.
What to Expect After UFE
Following UFE, patients may experience mild cramping or fatigue for a few days as the body adjusts. Over the next several weeks, fibroids begin to shrink, and symptoms gradually lessen. Many women notice lighter periods, reduced pelvic discomfort, and improved quality of life within a few months.
The success of UFE lies in its ability to target fibroids directly while preserving the uterus, offering a sense of relief and empowerment that surgery cannot always provide.
A Modern Solution for a Common Problem
Fibroids may be common, but living with their symptoms doesn’t have to be. With uterine fibroid embolization, women can treat fibroids effectively, preserve their uterus, and reclaim their comfort, all without surgery.
If you’re struggling with fibroid symptoms and want to explore uterine fibroid embolization in Springfield, VA, contact VidaVascular today to schedule a consultation. Our team of experts specializes in advanced, compassionate care designed to help women find lasting relief through minimally invasive treatments.
