Are you experiencing pelvic pain, heavy menstrual flow, or a feeling of fullness in your pelvic area? You’re not alone. As many as one in three women are affected by Uterine Fibroids, a common condition that can significantly impact your quality of life. At the Vascular and Interventional Centre, we understand the challenges Uterine Fibroids present, and we’re here to provide you with the safest, most effective treatments available.

What are Uterine Fibroids?

Uterine Fibroids are benign, non-cancerous tumors that develop in the uterus. In fact, by the age of 18, 50-70% of women have had Uterine Fibroids at some point in their lives! These growths originate from the myometrium, the muscular tissue of the uterus, and are often stimulated by the hormone estrogen.

Uterine Fibroids can appear in various ways—as a single fibroid or a cluster of multiple fibroids. The size, location, and number of fibroids can vary, requiring treatment options tailored to your specific situation and symptoms. Although Uterine Fibroids are rarely cancerous, with only one in  transforming into malignant tumors, it’s essential to address them to alleviate discomfort and potential complications.

Common Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids

It’s important to be aware of the common symptoms that may indicate the presence of Uterine Fibroids:

• Excessive and painful bleeding during menstruation (menorrhagia)
• Pelvic pain and pressure
• Lower back pain
• Bloating
• Constipation
• Frequent urination

If you experience any of these symptoms, consulting with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment is crucial.

Diagnosing Uterine Fibroids

Uterine Fibroids are typically detected through a pelvic examination. To confirm the initial diagnosis and explore treatment options, your doctor may recommend these tests:

• Ultrasound: This safe and effective imaging technique uses sound waves to create an image of your uterus and ovaries, detecting Uterine Fibroids.
• Saline Infusion Sonohysterography (SIS): Ideal for examining submucosal fibroids and polyps, this test involves injecting sterile saline into your uterus before capturing ultrasound images.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): An MRI provides a more detailed image of your uterus, identifying the exact location, quantity, and size of the fibroids.
• Hysteroscopy: During this procedure, a hysteroscope is inserted through the cervix into the uterine cavity, allowing your doctor to view images of the uterine lining, fallopian tube openings, polyps, and fibroids on a screen.

Treatment Options for Uterine Fibroids

The treatment approach for Uterine Fibroids depends on various factors, including the size and location of the fibroids, your age, overall health, medical history, desire to maintain fertility, and symptoms.

Medical Treatments

Medications can help manage symptoms like heavy menstrual bleeding and pelvic pain by targeting the hormones that regulate your menstrual cycle. While medications may not eliminate Uterine Fibroids, they can help shrink them and alleviate discomfort. Common medical treatments include hormonal contraceptives, tranexamic acid, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Uterine Fibroid Embolisation (UFE)

Uterine Fibroid Embolisation (UFE) is a non-surgical, minimally invasive method for managing Uterine Fibroids. During this procedure, a detailed angiogram of the pelvis is performed to identify the uterine and ovarian arterial blood supply. Small beads are then injected into the arteries supplying the fibroids, decreasing their oxygen supply and causing them to shrink.

UFE offers numerous benefits, including a shorter recovery time compared to traditional surgery, reduced risk of complications, and the preservation of the uterus. The vast majority of women (over  percent) experience lasting improvement in their symptoms, avoiding the need for future surgery or other invasive treatments for their fibroids.

Surgical Treatments

When medical treatments are insufficient, or in cases of large or rapidly growing fibroids, surgical options may be considered:

• Hysterectomy: This involves the removal of the uterus and is typically recommended for women who do not wish to have children in the future.
• Myomectomy: This procedure involves removing the fibroids while leaving the uterus intact, making it a preferred option for women who desire to preserve their fertility.
• MRI-Guided Focused Ultrasound Surgery (FUS): This minimally invasive procedure uses high-intensity focused ultrasound waves to heat and destroy fibroid tissue.

Why Choose Vascular and Interventional Centre for Uterine Fibroid Treatment?

At the Vascular and Interventional Centre, we prioritize providing the safest and most effective treatments for Uterine Fibroids. We offer a range of treatment options, including Uterine Fibroid Embolisation (UFE), a minimally invasive technique that deprives fibroids of their blood supply, causing them to shrink.

Our experienced team of vascular and interventional specialists is dedicated to helping you find the best treatment plan for your individual needs. We understand the impact Uterine Fibroids can have on your life, and we’re committed to helping you live comfortably and confidently.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about our comprehensive Uterine Fibroids treatment options. Let us help you take control of your health and reclaim your quality of life!