According to the Society for Women’s Health Research: “Fibroids are one of the most common gynecologic conditions, affecting an estimated 26 million women, ages 15 to 50, in the United States.”
80% of black women & 70% of white women will develop fibroids by age 50, and the average delay in seeking treatment is almost 4 years. While surgical treatments like hysterectomy and myomectomy might seem like the strongest treatment choices, they come with drawbacks and risks associated with surgery.
Now, non-surgical options for uterine fibroids are more readily available.
What Are Uterine Fibroids?
Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that form in or around the uterus, commonly during a woman’s childbearing years. They vary in size, from tiny and barely noticeable to large enough to cause discomfort.
Many women with fibroids experience symptoms like heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, bloating, or even fertility issues, while others might not have symptoms at all. Although they are not life-threatening, fibroids can significantly impact daily life, making it important to understand treatment options.
What are Non-Surgical Options for Uterine Fibroids?
Non-surgical treatments for uterine fibroids offer significant benefits, especially for women who want to avoid the risks and recovery time associated with surgery. These options are often less invasive, can help preserve fertility, and may be tailored to individual health needs. Women with mild to moderate symptoms or those who prefer to manage their fibroids without undergoing surgery often find these treatments to be an effective and convenient alternative.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
- Medications:
- Hormonal therapies like GnRH agonists, and birth control pills have been known to help manage fibroid size and bleeding. Hormone therapies like these aren’t recommended for long-term use, though, as they can result in bone loss and menopause-like symptoms.
- Anti-inflammatory drugs for symptom relief. These medications can help provide temporary relief for pain, but aren’t a treatment for the fibroids themselves.
- Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE):
- Also known as uterine artery embolization, this treatment is offered at North Star Fibroid Clinic. It is a non-surgical, minimally invasive procedure that effectively treats fibroids in the long term.
- During the procedure, an interventional radiologist threads a catheter into an artery in the wrist and then uses imaging to guide it through the body’s blood vessels that supply blood to the fibroid. Tiny microparticles are released into the blood vessels where they become lodged and cut off the blood feeding the fibroid. The fibroid shrinks over time, along with the associated symptoms.
- MRI-Guided Focused Ultrasound (FUS):
- An MRI provides detailed imaging of the uterus and fibroid tumors. The interventional radiologist uses these images to pinpoint the fibroids and treat them with focused ultrasound energy, which heats the fibroids to destroy them.
- A benefit of an FUS is that it’s also non-surgical, however, some risks include: allergic reaction to the contrast dye, possible skin burns, temporary or permanent nerve damage, and blood clots.
- Lifestyle Changes and Natural Remedies:
- Although not a permanent solution to eliminating fibroids, lifestyle modifications can help control your symptoms and improve your overall well-being. Eating healthy and maintaining a healthy weight can help manage the symptoms of uterine fibroids.
Choosing the Right Option
Selecting the best non-surgical treatment for uterine fibroids depends on factors like the severity of your symptoms, overall health, and long-term goals, such as preserving fertility.
Our fibroid specialists are ready to guide you through available options and recommend the most suitable treatment based on your unique situation. Diagnostic tools like ultrasounds or MRIs may be used during a consultation to pinpoint the fibroids’ size and location, making it easier to decide on a personalized plan.
Contact our team to schedule your fibroid consultation.
