Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)
Overview
Causes
The cause of this problem is not known. Genetics may play a role.
Fibroid growth is stimulated by estrogen and progesterone hormones. This causes fibroids to grow during pregnancy and shrink after childbirth. It also causes them to become less of a problem after menopause .
SymptomsandDiagnosis
Symptoms
Some people may not have symptoms. Others may have mild to severe problems. It depends on the size and location of the growths. Problems may be:
- Pelvic pain or pressure
- Belly swelling
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Blood clots in menstrual flow
- Periods that last longer than normal
- Bleeding between periods
- Cramping during periods
- Pain during sex
- Frequent need to urinate
- Constipation
- Low back or leg pain
Treatments
Treatment
Not all fibroids need to be treated. They will be watched for any changes.
Treatment that is needed will depend on whether there is a plan for future pregnancy. The goal of treatment is to manage symptoms. This may be done with medicines, such as:
- Prescription or over the counter pain relievers
- Hormonal therapy, such as oral contraceptives
- Gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists to shrink fibroids
- Tranexamic acid to control heavy bleeding
People who are not helped by these methods may need:
- Uterine fibroid embolization to block blood flow to the fibroids to cause them to shrink
- Focused ultrasound therapy to use focused sound waves to destroy the fibroids
- Myomectomy to remove fibroids
- Hysterectomy to remove the uterus, which means pregnancy is no longer possible
This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.
Edits to original content made by Denver Health.
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