One-third of American women experience some type of pelvic health disorder by the time they’re age 60, and about 600,000 women every year have a hysterectomy – removing their uterus to relieve troubling symptoms. One of the most common reasons women have a hysterectomy is to relieve the pain of uterine fibroids, accounting for more than 177,000 hysterectomies a year.
What are uterine fibroids
Uterine fibroids are tumors, usually benign, that form in the smooth muscles of the uterus, and can cause pelvic pain, infertility, and heavy menstrual bleeding. If the fibroids are causing no symptoms, doctors may simply monitor their status and not recommend surgery unless problems develop.
For women experiencing pain, discomfort, or pressure, it is important to know that there are there are several less-invasive alternatives to having a hysterectomy.
Uterine artery embolization
Uterine artery embolization (UAE), also known as uterine fibroid embolization (UFE). This is a fairly simple, noninvasive procedure in which small particles are injected into the uterine arteries feeding the fibroids, cutting off their blood supply. Unlike a hysterectomy, this procedure preserves the uterus and helps women potentially avoid surgery. It’s a tested and proven treatment with a long history of being used to help stop hemorrhaging after childbirth or surgery. Symptoms improve in 85% to 90% of patients, most of them significantly.
To discuss your fibroid treatment options or to schedule an appointment, call 860-289-3375.