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Uterine Fibroid Treatment in Atlanta

Expert Uterine Fibroid Embolization for Heavy Menstrual Bleeding and Pelvic Pain

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What Are Uterine Fibroids?

Uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomas or myomas, are non-cancerous growths that develop in or on the uterus. They vary in size from tiny nodules to large masses that can distort the shape of the uterus. While fibroids are common and often benign, they can cause significant symptoms such as heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, and fertility challenges.

At Advanced Vascular & Vein, our board-certified interventional radiologists specialize in diagnosing and treating fibroids using Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE), a minimally invasive alternative to surgery.

What Causes Uterine Fibroids?

The exact cause of fibroids isn't fully understood, but several factors contribute to their growth:

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Hormonal Influence

Estrogen and progesterone, female hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle, promote fibroid growth.

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Genetic Changes

Fibroids often contain genetic alterations that differ from normal uterine muscle cells.

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Growth Factors

Substances that help the body maintain tissues may also stimulate fibroid growth.

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Family History

A woman whose mother or sister has fibroids is more likely to develop them.

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Other Factors

Obesity, high blood pressure, and diet (particularly high in red meat) may increase risk.

Schedule Your UFE Consultation Today

If you're suffering from heavy menstrual bleeding, an enlarged uterus, or fibroid pain, you have options beyond surgery. Advanced Vascular & Vein specializes in uterine fibroid embolization, helping women avoid hysterectomy with a minimally invasive outpatient procedure.

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Uterine Fibroids Symptoms 

Many women with fibroids experience no symptoms, but for others, fibroids can cause serious discomfort and disrupt daily life. Common symptoms include:

  • Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
  • Pelvic pain or pressure
  • Frequent urination or difficulty emptying the bladder
  • Constipation or bloating
  • Pain during intercourse
  • Low back pain or leg discomfort
  • Anemia from excessive blood loss
  • Difficulty conceiving or pregnancy complications

If you experience these symptoms, you don't have to live with them. Advanced Vascular & Vein offers advanced, non-surgical options that can provide long-term relief.

Risk Factors for Uterine Fibroids

Uterine fibroids can affect any woman of reproductive age, but some factors increase risk:

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Women between the ages of 30-50

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Family history of fibroids

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African-American women, who have a higher prevalence and earlier onset

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Overweight or obese women

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High estrogen levels (natural or from hormone therapy)

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Early onset of menstruation

Minimally Invasive Fibroid Treatments

Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)

Modern interventional radiology offers non-surgical alternatives to hysterectomy for treating uterine fibroids. Unlike laparoscopy or laparoscopic myomectomy, these outpatient procedures are performed through tiny incisions, guided by advanced imaging, allowing faster recovery with minimal discomfort and no surgical scars. UFE is a minimally invasive catheter procedure that blocks the blood supply to fibroids, causing them to shrink naturally and die while preserving the uterus. This same-day procedure performed by our interventional radiologists uses uterine artery embolization (UAE) techniques to reduce fibroids, eliminating heavy menstrual bleeding and pelvic pain without surgery.

Frequently Asked Questions About Uterine Fibroids

Can Uterine Fibroids be Cancerous?

Uterine fibroids are benign tumors and rarely cancerous. Less than 1 in 1,000 fibroids are cancerous, developing into a rare cancer called leiomyosarcoma. The vast majority of fibroids are non-cancerous smooth muscle growths. However, rapidly growing fibroids or those causing severe symptoms should be evaluated by a specialist to rule out malignancy and determine if UFE treatment is appropriate.

Can Uterine Fibroids Cause Weight Gain?

Yes, fibroids can cause weight gain and bloating. Large fibroids can weigh several pounds and cause abdominal swelling or a distended abdomen, making you look pregnant. Additionally, heavy bleeding from fibroids can lead to avoiding physical activity, contributing to actual weight gain.

What Do Uterine Fibroids Look Like?

Fibroids are round or oval-shaped growths that vary dramatically in size, from tiny seedlings to large masses. Small fibroids may be pea-sized, while large fibroids can be as big as a melon. They have a firm, rubbery texture and appear white or pale pink when viewed during surgery. On ultrasound, fibroids look like dark, well-defined masses within or attached to the uterus.

Are Uterine Fibroids Dangerous?

While fibroids themselves aren't life-threatening, fibroid complications can be serious if untreated. Heavy bleeding can cause anemia, leading to fatigue and heart problems. Large fibroids may press on organs, causing kidney issues or blood clots. Rarely, fibroids can affect pregnancy or fertility.