Fibroid Treatment

Effective Fibroid Treatment Options

There are several safe and effective fibroid treatments available today. These methods range from "watchful waiting" to surgical procedures such as a hysterectomy or myomectomy. Other options include minimally invasive surgical procedures like uterine fibroid embolization (UFE). It is best to discuss this fibroid treatment and all other options with your doctor to decide which method will work best for you. To find a doctor in your area who you can discuss uterine fibroid tumor treatments with, please use our physician locator.

Embolization of the Uterine Artery

Uterine fibroid embolization, or UFE, is a relatively new, growing fibroid treatment option. More women are taking advantage of the benefits of this hysterectomy alternative. Embolization of the uterine artery is a method of uterine fibroid treatment that cuts off the blood supply to fibroids and causes them to shrink. Without the oxygen that blood provides, the uterine fibroids are unable to grow any further.

The uterine fibroid embolization procedure is simple and effective. Using a catheter, an interventional radiologist (IR) enters through a small incision in the femoral artery. Specialized X-ray equipment helps the interventional radiologist guide the catheter to the area near the fibroid. Once there, the catheter injects Embosphere® Microspheres (small spheres) into the blood stream leading to the fibroid. These spheres block the blood flow to the vessels surrounding the uterine fibroids and cut off their supply of oxygen.

There are fibroid treatments that can serve as an alternative to the hysterectomy procedure. When researching uterine fibroid treatment options you should consult several doctors until you're sure of the method that is best for you. Speak with interventional radiologists, your OB/GYN and even other women that have undergone fibroid treatments. Many hospitals offer Women's Health seminars that are excellent opportunities to meet women with similar clinical issues.

Learn more about your surgical and non-surgical fibroid treatment options today, and discover if UFE is right for you. And please take a moment to read our resource on researching alternatives to hysterectomy procedures.