Uterine fibroids are incredibly common; in fact, most women will experience one or more uterine fibroids in their lifetime. An estimated 26 million women between the ages of 15 and 50 have uterine fibroid and over 15 million women will experience associated symptoms or health concerns. These can include debilitating and chronic pain, heavy periods, fatigue, and fertility struggles – any of which can contribute to mental health challenges such as anxiety and depression. Many of these women suffer in silence, unaware that minimally invasive options exist to diminish the symptoms.

Fibroid awareness month matters, as it elevates the importance for women to understand what fibroids are and how they can be treated.

Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous (benign) growths that affect a woman’s reproductive system. They are made of muscle cells and other tissue that grow in or around the wall of the uterus. The cause of fibroids is unknown. Uterine fibroids affect 70-80% of women by age 50 and are especially prevalent in African-American women.

Fibroids can grow without causing symptoms; however, when they do cause symptoms, they can interfere with quality of life. Most common symptoms include:

• Heavy menstrual bleeding: Periods can be heavier or longer than a regular cycle. Women are encouraged to track their menstrual cycles to identify patterns that they can share with their healthcare provider.
• Frequent urination: Fibroids can press against the bladder, creating the need or urge to urinate more frequently.
• Constipation: Some fibroids can press against the rectum, making it difficult to have a bowel movement.
• Pain or discomfort during intercourse: Fibroids can cause pain during sex.
• Pelvic pain and pressure: A dull ache or sharp pain in the lower abdomen or pelvis can be caused by the presence of fibroids. This pain may radiate to the lower back, buttocks, or legs.

If You Have Symptoms – Don’t Suffer in Silence

Many women are taught to normalize heavy periods and pain, and therefore don’t speak up. Conversely, some healthcare providers may dismiss or minimize these symptoms. If an individual feels that something is not right within their body but is being dismissed, we encourage them to seek a second or third opinion from another doctor. Do not suffer in isolation.  Fibroids can be diagnosed by your primary care physician, obstetrician, or gynecologist. An earlier diagnosis can help treat symptoms and provide a woman with a broader range of treatment options. Dr. Kevin Carson, of The Georgia Vascular Institute is a trusted specialist in minimally invasive treatments for fibroids. Growing up, he saw firsthand how severe symptoms of uterine fibroids impacted the women in his life. That experience inspired him to pursue a medical career focused on giving women options for fibroid treatment, along with compassionate care.

Uterine Fibroid Treatment Options

In the past, the standard treatment for fibroids was a hysterectomy – the complete removal of the uterus. However, many women do not realize that there are multiple treatment options for fibroids, which depend on the woman’s age, the number and size of her fibroids, and her overall health. All decisions should be made in conjunction with education and the woman’s trusted healthcare provider.

• Watchful waiting: monitor small, symptom-free fibroids with regular checkups.
• Medications: hormonal therapies can reduce bleeding and offer temporary relief; pain relievers to help manage pain.
• Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE): a minimally invasive procedure to block blood flow and shrink fibroids.
• MRI-Guided Focused Ultrasound: uses high-frequency sound waves to destroy fibroid tissue.
• Myomectomy: surgical removal of fibroids while preserving the uterus.
• Hysterectomy: complete removal of the uterus – most invasive but the only permanent solution.

Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) by Dr. Carson

At the Georgia Vascular Institute, Dr. Carson specializes in treating fibroids with a minimally invasive procedure called Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE). This procedure treats fibroids by blocking the blood vessels that supply them, eventually causing them to shrink and reduce symptoms over time.

The benefits of a UFE treatment include:

• Less invasive than traditional surgery
• Preservation of the uterus
• Does not affect fertility as drastically as a hysterectomy
• A shorter recovery time than surgery, typically a few days of discomfort and possible cramping
• Long-term relief from fibroid symptoms

Awareness is the First Step Toward Relief

Dr. Carson and the team at the Georgia Vascular Institute believe that every woman deserves to be heard, understood, and offered care that honors her needs and goals. If you or someone you love is experiencing symptoms of uterine fibroids, don’t wait to reach out. Options and support are available.

To learn more about fibroid treatment options or to discuss Uterine Fibroid Embolization with Dr. Carson, please contact our office at (770) 506-4007 to schedule an appointment.