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Treatment-for-Uterine-Fibroids-without-surgery

Treatment-for-Uterine-Fibroids-without-surgery

What are Uterine Fibroids?

Uterine Fibroids also known as Myomas are growths in or on the uterus. Fibroids are common in women of reproductive age and are mostly non-cancerous however, it might cause infertility in women or pregnancy loss. The fibroids vary in size, from seedlings that are undetectable by the human eye to bulky lumps of masses that can distort and enlarge the uterus.

Causes of Uterine Fibroids

Even though the exact reason that causes uterine fibroids to grow in or on the uterus is unknown, these are a few factors that can contribute to the growth of Uterine Fibroids.

1. Hormonal Imbalance

Fibroids usually grow when there is a hormonal imbalance in women. Estrogen and Progesterone (a hormone that play a vital role in the reproductive system of women) seem to promote the growth of fibroids.

2. Genetics

A family history of Fibroids can also contribute to developing Uterine Fibroids in women.

Impact of Uterine Fibroids on Women

1. Physical Discomfort and Pain

Apart from contributing to infertility in women, Uterine Fibroids cause a huge amount of physical pain and discomfort to women dealing with this condition.

Since fibroids are growths in or on the uterus wall, heaviness or discomfort in their abdomen or the lower pelvic region is a common symptom.

2. Emotional Stress and Anxiety

Women dealing with fibroids go through a wide range of emotions from stress to anxiety to fear and sudden panic and insecurity as well.

3. Impact on Sexual Health

Indeed, Fibroids do play a key role when it comes to affecting fertility outcomes in women. Fibroids have the potential to obstruct the fallopian tubes or the uterus, making it more difficult to conceive a child. The implantation of a fertilized egg in the uterus can also be prevented by uterine fibroids.

4. Impact on Social Life

The fear and anxiety that comes along while dealing with Uterine Fibroids can all have a toll on one’s social life as well. Relationships, career, workplace productivity can be obstructed too.

Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids to look out for, before you visit your doctor

Heavy Menstrual Bleeding

Menstrual bleeding that is excessive is one of the most prevalent signs of uterine fibroids that you should be on the lookout for.

Women who have uterine fibroids may also experience a lengthening of their periods, in addition to the passage of blood clots.

In addition, uterine fibroids have the potential to cause anemia because of the significant increase in blood loss that occurs throughout the menstrual cycle.

Menstrual Periods Lasting More Than a Week

Due to the growth of fibroids of the uterus it is possible for the menstrual cycle to last longer than its typical duration.

Ultimately, this can lead to a significant amount of blood loss from the body, along with discomfort and physical pain.

Pelvic Pressure or Abdominal Pain

The growth of uterine fibroid can, in fact, have a greater influence on the abdominal and pelvic region, resulting in a sensation of fullness and pressure in that area of the body.

In addition, this may cause difficulties in carrying out day-to-day activities and may also have an impact on an individual’s social life as well.

Frequent Urination

Fibroids of the uterus exert a constant pressure on the urinary bladder, which results in an increased need to urinate frequently.

Once again, this can have an impact on a person’s sleep cycle as well as their productivity at work, in addition to producing a significant amount of anxiety, fear, and uncertainty.

Difficulty emptying the bladder

Uterine Fibroid of your Uterus can play a significant role in causing Urinary Tract Infection. Since the fibroids apply pressure on the bladder it is possible to not be able to pass urine completely which might result in a UTI (Urinary Tract Infection).

Constipation

The pressure exerted by uterine fibroids can significantly affect the rectum leading to difficulty in bowel movements.

Painful Intercourse

Fibroids can affect your sexual life as well. The growth of fibroids of the uterus may lead painful sexual intercourse which may in turn affect your sexual life.

Traditional Treatment options for Uterine Fibroids

Hysterectomy

As a method of treating Uterine fibroids, a hysterectomy, which involves the full removal of the uterus, is seen as procedure that involves a high amount of risk. This process can be carried out in a few ways, such as

Abdominal Hysterectomy

Abdominal Hysterectomy requires a large incision to be made in the abdomen through which the uterus is removed completely.

Vaginal Hysterectomy

Vaginal Hysterectomy is a procedure in which the uterus is removed through the vagina. Women who do not want to have children in the future or who have not found relief from other therapies are typically the ones who are recommended to undergo a hysterectomy. The reason being that if the uterus is removed from a woman’s body she can no longer conceive or get pregnant.

Risks associated with Hysterectomy of the Uterus

As with any surgical solution Hysterectomy also involves a significant number of risks and complications which may include

Damage to surrounding organs and tissues

In the case of a Hysterectomy, there is the possibility of causing damage to the organs that are located in the surrounding area, such as the urinary tract, the intestines, and the bladder. There is also a chance that this will result in complications that will need for additional surgical interventions.

Hormonal Changes

Hysterectomy is performed to remove the Uterus and relieve symptoms caused by fibroids. However, if the ovaries are removed along with the uterus it might result in symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes, nocturnal sweats, and mood swings. Even in if the ovaries are not removed, there is a possibility that their function will be disrupted, which could result in an earlier onset of menopause. In addition to this, the removal of the uterus causes the woman unable to conceive, which is an important factor to take into consideration for individuals who might have a desire to have children in the future.

Impact on pelvic floor function

Additionally, there is the possibility of long-term effects on the function of the pelvic floor. Prolapse of the pelvic organs is a condition that can affect women. This occurs when the pelvic organs move out of their usual place. This might lead to unease as well as difficulties with the urinary system. It is also important not to overlook the emotional and psychological effects as well. Some women may experience a sense of loss or changes in their sexuality and body image, which can have an effect on their overall quality of life.

Prolonged Recovery Phase

As with any surgical procedure, the recovery phase for a Hysterectomy is also prolonged. The reason being removal of the uterus which is a major organ in a woman’s body can cause significant number of changes both physically and mentally. Apart from that, the body takes a lot of time to recover when such an important organ is removed from its system.

Any options for fibroid treatment without surgery?

Non-Surgical Solution to treat Fibroids of Uterus

By combining the medical and technological advancements that has been accumulated over the course of centuries with the improvements that have been made in the fields of medicine and research, there are now several non-surgical solutions to a variety of conditions that the common person is not aware of.

Benefits of a Non-Surgical Approach

Minimally Invasive

Non-Surgical techniques do not involve large incisions, cuts to be made during the procedures which is a huge advantage over traditional surgeries. Since they are highly advanced treatments, latest methods like using a catheter to treat ailments along with imaging techniques provide the patient with minimal scarring and a faster recovery phase. These procedures are usually performed by an interventional radiologist.

Day Care Procedure

Non-surgical solutions do not require the patients to get admitted for days to the hospital. In most cases, the patient can return home the very same day. They can also continue with their regular activities within a few days.

Minimal Side Effects

When compared to traditional surgical methods which usually involve open surgeries, non-surgical solutions have minimal side effects on the body.

What is Uterine Artery Embolization (UAE) for Uterine Fibroids?

Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) is a non-surgical technique to remove the fibroids from your uterus, Uterine Fibroid Embolization is minimally invasive technique that is used to shrink fibroids by blocking their blood supply.

Uterine Fibroid Embolization

Also known as Uterine Artery Embolization, the procedure is usually performed by an interventional radiologist. This technique involves making a small incision in the groin area of the patient. Catheter (a thin tube) which carries micro particles is guided to through the arterial system to the uterine arteries which supply blood to the fibroids. The uterine arteries are injected with very small particles called embolic agents. These particles are transported through the catheter to enter the blood vessels that supply the fibroids and obstruct them, so preventing the fibroids from receiving blood supply. This technique is completely non-surgical as it only embolizes the blood supply to shrink fibroids.

The Process of Uterine Fibroid Embolization

Catheter Insertion

A small incision is made in the groin, and a thin, flexible tube called a catheter is inserted into the femoral artery. The catheter is then guided through the arterial system to the uterine arteries, which supply blood to the fibroids.

Embolization

The uterine arteries are injected with very small particles, which are commonly made of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) or other embolic agents. These particles are sent through the catheter to enter the blood vessels that supply the fibroids and obstruct them, thereby preventing fibroids from receiving blood supply.

Removal of the Catheter

Immediately after the obstruction of the blood flow to the fibroids, the catheter is removed a minimal bandage is put to the area of entry.

Advantages of Uterine Fibroid Embolization Over Traditional Surgery

UFE is considered one of the finest techniques for the treatment of uterine fibroids. One of the reasons being it does not involve removing the uterus completely which gives the patient with an opportunity to conceive again. Also, the procedure utilizes a more innovative method which to shrink the fibroids and not use any surgical interventions to make cuts or large incisions. Other advantages are

1. Minimally Invasive Nature

In contrast to more conventional surgical procedures, such as myomectomy and hysterectomy, UFE is a procedure that is considered to be less invasive. Due to the fact that it does not require major incisions, the risk of complications that are linked with it are significantly lesser. When a catheter is inserted through a small incision in the groin, the amount of tissue damage that occurs is also reduced, which results in minimal postoperative pain and a more faster recovery phase. This method, which is minimally invasive, considerably reduces the requirement for general anesthesia, which further reduces the risk of complications associated with anesthesia.

2. Shorter Recovery Time

There is a significant reduction in the amount of time required for recovery while choosing UFE. Because of this quicker recovery, women are able to resume their daily routines, job, and personal duties much sooner. This not only improves their general quality of life but also reduces the financial burden that comes with taking extended time off from work.

3. Preservation of Uterus

This can be a deal breaker in terms of other traditional surgical methods used to treat fibroids which is particularly important for women who wish to retain their fertility or avoid the psychological impact of losing their uterus. Since this technique is used to remove the fibroids and not the uterus, it is a major advantage for women who wish to conceive retain their fertility.

4. Lower Risk of Surgical Complications

Traditional surgical methods such as hysterectomy carry a number of risks and complications. Heavy bleeding, infection and injury to surrounding organs are all possible risk factors to be taken into consideration. UFE, being less invasive, has a lower risk of these severe complications. Additionally, the reduced trauma to the body means a lower likelihood of developing postoperative adhesions and other complications that can affect health on the longer run.

5. Reduced Hospital Stay

UFE is carried out as an outpatient procedure, which means that the majority of patients do not have to remain in the hospital overnight. This is in contrast to more conventional surgical procedures, such as hysterectomy, which often require the patient to remain in the hospital for a number of days.

Why Uterine Artery Embolization is the Best Treatment for Uterine Fibroids?

As a result of its minimally invasive nature, shorter recovery time, preservation of the uterus, lower risk of complications, and the ability to perform it as an outpatient procedure, UFE is the most effective treatment for uterine fibroids. This allows women to quickly resume their normal activities with minimal disruption from the procedure and also allows them to retain their fertility.

Post-treatment care tips for be followed to get back on track are,

Since UFE is a non-surgical, minimally invasive technique there are very minimal post procedure tips to keep in mind.

Hydration and Nutrition

Staying well hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet can aid in recovery. A nutritious diet rich in fruits and vegetables supports your body’s recovery process.

Avoiding Certain Activities for a few days

Even though UFE is a minimally invasive procedure, certain activities such as refraining from sexual intercourse for a few days helps significantly in a faster recovery.

Having a Support System

The procedure is non-surgical and does cause significant pain to the patient when compared to traditional surgical alternatives like Hysterectomy. Nevertheless, having yourself surrounded with your family and loved ones gives you an emotional boost to get you back into the swing of things.

FAQs about UFE

1. How does UFE differ from a Surgery?

UAE is a minimally invasive procedure that does not require the removal of the uterus. While surgery includes physically removing fibroids or the entire uterus as a whole, UFE does not remove the uterus but only treats uterine fibroids.

2. Who is considered to be a good candidate for UFE?

UFE may be a good option for women with symptomatic uterine fibroids who want to keep their uterus intact, don’t want a surgery, or are worried about the length of recuperation required for conventional surgical procedures.

3. Is the UFE treatment painful?

Patients may feel some pain or cramping during the procedure, which usually involves local anesthetic or conscious sedation. However, the pain experienced is not as severe when compared with traditional surgical alternatives such as Hysterectomy.

4. When to resume regular activities after UFE?

Recovery periods differ, however many women are back to their regular routines in about a week. It could be necessary to refrain from strenuous activity for a little while longer.

5. Are there any other treatment options to treat Uterine Fibroids besides UFE?

Yes, surgical alternatives including hysterectomy, myomectomy and hormone therapy are available alternatives to treat fibroids.

6. Will there be a reoccurrence of uterine fibroids after UFE?

Although UFE effectively reduces the size and symptoms of fibroids, there is a very minimal possibility that new fibroids will eventually form. It is advised to follow up on a regular basis with your healthcare provider to avoid reoccurrence.

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