Many middle-aged women have fibroids that may be hard to notice. These fibroids cause discomfort in areas around the pelvis. If you are experiencing uterine fibroid embolization in Houston, TX, more about the subject can be found below.

What are uterine fibroids?

Uterine fibroids are connective tissues and muscles that are non-benign, which form on the walls of the uterus. They may grow one at a time or together as a bunch. They, therefore, range in size and location within the uterus. Uterine fibroids growth can occur quickly or over a couple of years, depending on the patient. The change can reverse, resulting in the shrinking of the fibroids. This depends on what’s going on in your life at the time.

Signs and Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids

Small-sized fibroids do not have significant signs and symptoms, thus do not require medical attention other than observation by your medical practitioner. Large-sized fibroids, on the other hand, require medical attention with signs and symptoms that include:

•         Constipation
•         Continual vaginal discharge
•         Being unable to urinate completely
•         Extreme bleeding during your periods
•         Bloating
•         Low back pain
•         Painful sexual intercourse
•         Bleeding even when you are not going through menstruation
•         Swelling just below your stomach

Women in menopause experience fewer symptoms because of decreased hormones in their bodies.

Factors that affect growth and occurrence of uterine fibroids

The exact origin of fibroids is unknown though several elements may affect their occurrence rate. These factors include:

•         Family history
•         Lack of children
•         Late occurrence of menopause
•         Getting your periods when young
•         Extreme weight issues
•         Taking alcohol
•         Lack of enough regular exercise
•         Being of African American descent

For a long time, uterine fibroids used to be treated by a surgical operation involving removing the uterus. Newer advanced methods such as uterine fibroid embolization have been developed to deal with this problem.

What is Uterine Fibroid Embolization?

This is an operation done by a radiologist to remove the blood supply to the fibroids. A slim, elastic tube known as a catheter is inserted in the femoral artery, whereby a contrast material is inserted into the catheter. You feel a warming sensation as it moves up and into the uterus. An x-ray machine carefully guides the catheter to the blood vessels supplying blood to the fibroids. This is most suitable for women who are not expecting to be pregnant in the future.

Benefits of uterine fibroid embolization include;

•         No blood loss
•         Incisions on the abdomen are not required
•         General anesthesia is not required
•         All types of fibroids can be treated by uterine fibroid embolization
•         There are no side effects
•         Quick recovery times
•         Approved by the FDA

Women going through any of the above symptoms should refer to their medical practitioner for further diagnosis. You could also check out our website or visit our offices in Houston, TX, for more information.