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Uterine fibroids are benign (non-cancerous) tumors that grow on the inside and/or outside walls of the uterus. Rarely do uterine fibroids become cancerous. Uterine fibroids can range in size from very tiny (a quarter of an inch) to larger than a cantaloupe. Most fibroids don’t cause symptoms — only 10 to 20 percent of women who have fibroids require treatment. Depending on size, location and the number of fibroids, some women may experience:
- Heavy, prolonged menstrual periods, unusual monthly bleeding and clotting.
- Pelvic pain and pressure.
- Pain in the back and legs.
- Pain during sexual intercourse.
- Bladder pressure, leading to a frequent urge to urinate.
- Pressure on the bowel, causing constipation and bloating.
Interventional radiologists on the medical staff at Mountain Vista Medical Center can perform safe and effective uterine fibroid embolization, a minimally invasive treatment for fibroid tumors. In this procedure, small particles are injected through a thin, flexible catheter and are guided (using an X-ray or ultrasound) to the fibroid tumor. The small particles block the arteries that provide blood flow, causing the fibroids to shrink.
Many women seek uterine fibroid embolization as a safe alternative to a hysterectomy and may experience faster recovery times, less complications and less scarring.
Click here to learn more about interventional radiology and for more information about interventional radiology services at Mountain Vista Medical Center.
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