Uterine Fibroid Treatments & Benefits

What are your treatment options for uterine fibroids?
Treatment options include watchful waiting, medical treatment, surgery and Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE). Watchful waiting is "keeping an eye" on the fibroids by checking them periodically for changes in size or number. Medical treatment includes taking an Oral Contraceptive Pill (OCP) or GnRH agonists. GnRH agonists are a hormone produced by the hypothalamus that can be used to thin the endometrial lining. This can provide temporary relief of symptoms but may have side effects. Surgery options include Myomectomy or Hysterectomy.

What are the potential benefits of Uterine Fibroid Embolization?

• Preserves the uterus without surgical risks or need for hormone replacement therapy
• Decrease in menstrual bleeding from symptomatic fibroids
• Decrease in pelvic pain and pressure
• Smaller abdomen
• Improvement in urinary symptoms
• Covered by most insurance companies
• Shorter hospital stays than for hysterectomy
• Quicker return to normal activities or work than hysterectomy
• Overall significant improvement in patient’s physical and emotional well-being