Uterine Fibroid Embolization and How it Works

Uterine fibroids are not unusual in women. Some of the non-cancerous growths are harmless and usually go away on their own. However, if left untreated, uterine fibroids can interfere with a woman’s quality of life and lead to severe anemia related complications. Often described as a hazy discomfort and not a sharp pain, women with extensive fibroids usually feel pressure in their lower abdomen. With heaviness in the pelvis, large fibroids make it uncomfortable for the affected persons to lie face down, bend, or even exercise. Alate Health is a facility with experts in uterine fibroid embolization in Houston, TX. With experienced interventional radiologists led by Dr. Doe, they have recorded a significant number of successful UFE procedures. After a successful operation, Dr. Doe affirms that your chances of going for a total hysterectomy or surgery to relieve you from fibroids will be minimal.

How effective is UFE?

Gone are the days when the only way to do away with fibroids was invasive surgery. This FDA-approved, minimally invasive procedure will prompt your doctor to administer tiny gel particles or plastic through a catheter and direct it directly to the artery supplying the fibroid with blood. With the supply intercepted, the fibroid gradually shrinks, and the growth disappears. This procedure that works in shrinking all fibroid types has been proven to relieve many women’s pain and fibroid symptoms.

What are the symptoms of uterine fibroids?

Though usually mistaken for usual cramping, you might think of seeing a physician when you start experiencing the following signs and symptoms:

  •         Heavy bleeding that can lead to anemia
  •         Painful periods
  •         An enlarged lower abdomen
  •         Lower back pain
  •         Feel pain during sex
  •         Frequent urination

What are the types of uterine fibroids?

Four types of uterine fibroids can cause adverse problems to a woman’s health and well-being if not taken care of. They are:

  •         Intramural fibroids. These are the most common uterine fibroids. They grow anywhere in the uterus between muscle layers and may extend to significant sizes.
  •         Submucosal fibroids. These unique forms of fibroids appear in the uterus’ inner tissues. The fibroids either grow at the front or back of the uterus and have a higher risk of blocking the fallopian tubes, resulting in infertility problems.
  •         Subserosal fibroids. These fibroids that grow on the outer layer of the uterus push outwards and may cause pressure on your pelvis and other abdominal organs if they grow out of proportion.
  •         Pedunculated fibroids. These are mushroom-like fibroids with many stalks.

Each of these fibroids has its distinctive characteristics. For instance, when the stalks of the pedunculated fibroid twists, you will experience severe cramping and extended periods.

Though you may have gotten used to cramping and painful pains during your menses, do not assume there is no problem when the symptoms start escalating. Free yourself from severe health problems that are caused by uterine fibroids by visiting Alert Health. Dr. Doe and his team of specialists will help alleviate your symptoms and relieve you from pain. For more information, feel free to call or book an online appointment.