Uterine fibroids, also called leiomyomas, are abnormal growths or tumors on or in the uterus. Fibroids can grow on the uterus or uterine walls. Some are small and don’t need medical attention, while others can grow abnormally huge. Before you check for St. Louis uterine fibroids clinics, here is an overview of the symptoms and treatments.

What Are the Common Symptoms?

A lot of women do not have any apparent symptoms of uterine fibroids. Symptoms also largely depend on the size and location of the fibroids. Fibroids often shrink after menopause. Common symptoms include heavy menstrual bleeding, bleeding between periods, pelvic pain, lower back pain, menstrual cramps, frequent urination, and painful sex. Some women may have longer periods and unexplained pelvic pain that refuses to get better. Abdominal bloating and constipation are also common symptoms. Note that many symptoms related to fibroids are similar to other gynecological problems, which is precisely why you need to seek medical help without delay.

How Are Uterine Fibroids Diagnosed and Treated?

If your doctor suspects you have uterine fibroids, they may do a pelvic exam and order a few tests. Ultrasound, blood tests, MRIs, Hysterosonography, Hysterosalpingography, and Hysteroscopy, are some of the other tests that can be done to diagnose and locate uterine fibroids. The treatment plan depends on the size and location of the fibroids. These are not cancerous growths in most cases, and therefore, your doctor may ask you to wait and watch. You may get a few medications, and if required, they may consider procedures like Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE).

What Is Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)?

Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) is a procedure where the doctor will use a catheter into the blood vessels to get to the artery. The blood flow to the blood vessels is cut using gel/plastic particles, which causes the fibroid to shrink. Compared to other surgical options, doctors often rely on uterine fibroid embolization because it doesn’t cause any scarring and is less invasive. It can also reduce menstrual bleeding and doesn’t require the patient to stay at home for long. You can get back to your normal life within a week. Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) doesn’t have as many risks of complications as other procedures used for treating uterine fibroids.

Check online for clinics in St. Louis that offer treatments for uterine fibroids. Meet an experienced doctor to know the treatment options and if you can avoid surgery.