When to Seek Treatment for Your Uterine Fibroids

Leiomyomas, more commonly known as uterine fibroids, are estimated to affect nearly 80% of women by age 50. They account for around 39% of all hysterectomies performed in the United States.

Many women have fibroids and never even know it, as they don’t experience symptoms. These women are typically diagnosed during a scan that’s looking for something else. Other women have frequent symptoms and significant discomfort, leading to a diagnosis.

At Apex Endovascular, located in Fort Collins, Colorado, Dr. Shawn Ahmed provides diagnosis and treatment of uterine fibroids, including a method called uterine fibroid embolization. 

What uterine fibroids are

Uterine fibroids are typically benign (noncancerous) tumors that form in the walls of the uterus. These tumors can be as small as a grain of rice or as large as a small grapefruit. 

Some tumors grow so big that they fill the uterus and swell out into the stomach region. They can even make you look pregnant. Losing weight won’t help with this issue.

When it’s time to seek treatment

Some women deal with monthly issues for years, not knowing why they’re afflicted with so many symptoms. 

Fibroids can cause heavier-than-normal bleeding, spotting between periods, infertility, pain or fullness and pressure in your lower abdomen, and the need to urinate frequently. You might also have frequent constipation

If your fibroid symptoms are minor, you can talk to your doctor about medications like birth control or hormone treatments that reduce fibroid swelling and heavy periods and/or spotting. However, these methods don’t work for all people with uterine fibroids

If you have stabbing pain, feel like your abdomen is full of rocks or boulders, pain in your back or legs, or pain during sex, it could be time to seek other treatment options. There’s no reason to live in constant pain and discomfort from uterine fibroids.

Uterine fibroid embolization

Uterine fibroid embolization is a simple process. Dr. Ahmed targets the small arteries that provide blood flow directly to the fibroids. He injects tiny beads into the arteries, causing them to close off and redirect blood flow to other, nearby arteries.

Deprived of their blood supply, the fibroids shrink, and you’ll likely receive relief from symptoms by the time of your next period. This minimally invasive, nonsurgical route may work long term, preventing the need for a hysterectomy.

If you’re struggling with fibroid pain and medications have failed, it’s time to look into embolization. Dr. Ahmed evaluates your needs and recommends the right approach for your uterine fibroids. Call Apex Endovascular at 970-508-8439 to learn more, or book a consultation online today.