5 Fibroid Removal Options: What You Should Know
If you’ve been experiencing heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pressure, or discomfort during everyday activities, you’re not alone. Many individuals with uterine fibroids face these symptoms daily, unaware of the various fibroid removal options available. Fibroids, non-cancerous growths in or around the uterus, can significantly impact your quality of life. Advanced uterine fibroid treatments can address these concerns with both surgical and non-surgical methods.
At Vein Treatment Clinic, we understand how challenging it can be to navigate your treatment options. From uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) to more invasive surgical approaches, selecting the best treatment for fibroids depends on your symptoms, preferences, and overall health. In this article, we’ll explore five effective fibroid removal options, including a new treatment for fibroids without surgery—UFE—and compare their benefits.
Are you interested in getting more information about your condition or getting a treatment?
Fill the form below to start!
1. Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)
Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) is a minimally invasive treatment for fibroid removal without surgery. This procedure targets the blood supply feeding the fibroids, causing them to shrink and alleviating symptoms like uterine fibroid pain. UFE involves inserting a thin catheter into the blood vessels that supply the fibroids and injecting tiny embolic particles to block blood flow. Over time, the fibroids shrink, providing lasting relief without large incisions or downtime.
Unlike surgeries, UFE offers several advantages. It is performed on an outpatient basis and typically requires only a few days of recovery. Because it is minimally invasive, UFE reduces the risks associated with surgical complications and preserves the uterus, making it a preferred option for individuals who want to avoid hysterectomy.
2. Hysterectomy
A hysterectomy is the most definitive fibroid removal option, as it involves the complete removal of the uterus. This surgical procedure is typically recommended for individuals with severe symptoms who do not plan to have children in the future. Depending on the type of hysterectomy—total, partial, or radical—the surgery may also involve the removal of other reproductive organs like the ovaries and fallopian tubes.
It is a major surgical procedure with significant recovery time. Most patients require at least six weeks to fully heal, and there is a risk of surgical complications. Additionally, because the uterus is removed, this option eliminates any possibility of future pregnancy.
3. Myomectomy
For individuals who wish to preserve their fertility, myomectomy is a surgical option that involves removing fibroids while leaving the uterus intact. This procedure can be performed in several ways: abdominal myomectomy (via an open incision), laparoscopic myomectomy (minimally invasive), or hysteroscopic myomectomy (through the vagina). The choice of technique depends on the size, number, and location of the fibroids.
Recovery time varies depending on the technique, and there is a risk of fibroid recurrence. While myomectomy is a good option for individuals planning future pregnancies, it may not be ideal for those seeking a permanent solution.
4. Endometrial Ablation
Endometrial ablation is a minimally invasive procedure used primarily for uterine fibroid pain relief caused by heavy menstrual bleeding. During the procedure, the lining of the uterus (endometrium) is destroyed using heat, cold, or other energy sources. This reduces or stops menstrual bleeding entirely.
It is most effective for small fibroids within the uterine lining and is not recommended for individuals who plan to have children. Additionally, symptoms may return if new fibroids develop and the procedure does not address fibroids outside the uterus.
5. Hormonal Therapy
Hormonal therapy is a non-surgical option that focuses on the medical treatment of fibroid symptoms rather than removing them. Medications such as gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists, birth control pills, or progestin-releasing IUDs can manage heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, and other symptoms by regulating or suppressing hormones that influence fibroids.
While hormonal therapy offers uterine fibroid pain relief, it does not eliminate fibroids. Symptoms may return once treatment is discontinued. Additionally, some medications may cause side effects such as bone loss or mood changes. Hormonal therapy is best suited for individuals who need symptom management while exploring longer-term options like UFE or surgery.
Why UFE Is the Best Treatment for Fibroids:
- Minimally Invasive Procedure: Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) requires no large incisions. Instead, a tiny catheter is inserted into a blood vessel, guided to the fibroid’s blood supply, and embolic particles are delivered to block blood flow. This significantly reduces recovery time compared to traditional surgeries like hysterectomy or myomectomy, allowing you to return to your daily activities within a few days.
- Preserve the Uterus: Unlike hysterectomy, which removes the uterus entirely, UFE targets fibroids while preserving the uterus. This makes it ideal for individuals who want to maintain their reproductive organs. Preserving the uterus also supports hormonal balance, which can be disrupted by surgical removal. UFE provides effective relief from symptoms like heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, and pressure without compromising your body’s integrity.
- Effective Symptom Relief: UFE effectively alleviates the debilitating symptoms of uterine fibroids, including heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, frequent urination, and uterine fibroid pain. By shrinking fibroids and cutting off their blood supply, UFE addresses the root cause of these issues, offering lasting relief. Studies show that UFE achieves similar success rates to surgical methods, making it a powerful treatment option.
- Outpatient Convenience: UFE is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, meaning you can go home the same day. This eliminates the need for extended hospital stays. Recovery time is minimal, with most patients resuming normal activities within a week. The convenience of an outpatient procedure makes UFE particularly attractive to busy individuals who cannot afford lengthy downtime.
- Covered by Most Insurance Plans: UFE is covered by most medical insurance plans, making it an accessible and affordable option for many patients. Vein Treatment Clinic offers insurance verification to help you understand your coverage before starting treatment. This ensures transparency and lets you focus on your health rather than financial concerns.
Choosing the right fibroid removal option can feel overwhelming, but understanding your choices is the first step toward relief. From minimally invasive uterine fibroid embolization to surgical approaches like hysterectomy and myomectomy, each option has its benefits and limitations. UFE stands out as a new treatment for fibroids without surgery, offering effective symptom relief with minimal downtime and risks.
At Vein Treatment Clinic, we offer state-of-the-art uterine fibroid treatments tailored to your unique needs. Learn about our vein treatments and schedule a consultation today to find the best treatment for fibroids.
FEATURED POSTS BY VEIN DOCTORS
