Struggling with Painful Fibroids? Here’s How to Choose the Best Fibroid Treatment for You

If you’ve been diagnosed with uterine fibroids, you’re not alone. In fact, up to 80% of women develop these benign tumors by age 50. However, no two experiences are the same - some women may have no symptoms, while others struggle with debilitating pelvic pain, heavy periods, and fertility challenges.

Many women assume that a hysterectomy - the surgical removal of the uterus - is their only option. But that’s simply not true. At North Star Fibroid Clinic, we specialize in minimally invasive treatments like Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) that allow women to find relief without surgery.

In this guide, we’ll break down all of your treatment options so you can make the best decision for your body, health, and future.

Choosing a fibroid treatment depends on several factors like your symptoms, your desire for future pregnancy, and how much downtime you can afford. Below is a breakdown of six common treatment options.

As you can see from this chart, Uterine Fibroid Embolization stands out as the only treatment option that checks all the boxes. This minimally invasive procedure has transformed the lives of countless women by offering an effective, long-term solution to fibroid symptoms without the need for major surgery.

Keep reading to learn why UFE is making so many women smile!

Uterine Fibroid Embolization, also known as Uterine Artery Embolization (UAE) is a specialized fibroid treatment offered at North Star Fibroid Clinic. This non-surgical,minimally invasive procedure is designed to provide lasting relief from fibroids by targeting their blood supply.

How It Works

1. One of our board-certified interventional radiologists will insert a catheter into one of your arteries. This access point is usually in the wrist, and we only need a small needle-poke for entry.
2. Using advanced imaging technology, we carefully guide the catheter to the blood vessels that supply the fibroid.
3. We release tiny microparticles into the vessels where they will block blood flow to the fibroid.
4. Over time, the fibroid shrinks, and symptoms like heavy bleeding and pelvic pain improve significantly. Patients can go home the same day with very few restrictions and short recovery time.

Why UFE Stands Out

Because so many women have found fast relief, UFE is becoming one of the most popular treatments. As one fibroid survivor, Monica, put it: “I wear white today because I have power over my body. I have a choice in the treatment I receive. I have a voice and so do you!”

So let’s talk a little bit more about why this fibroid treatment is so appealing:

• Long-Term Relief: By directly addressing the fibroid’s blood supply, UFE ensures effective symptom management for most patients.
• FDA-Approved: The procedure is a safe and effective treatment option with minimal risk or side effects.
• Insurance Coverage: Most insurance providers cover UFE, making it accessible to more patients.
• Endorsed by Experts: The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends UFE as a viable alternative to surgery.
• Minimally Invasive: UFE doesn't require any major incisions or body trauma, leading to a quicker recovery and less pain.

What to Expect After UFE

Most women return to their daily routines within a few days, with minimal downtime compared to surgical options. Over the following months, the fibroid continues to shrink, offering progressive relief.

Click here to learn more about the details of this procedure from our recent discussion with Minnesota & Co.

While complications are rare, they can include:

• Infection
• Changes to the menstrual cycle, which may impact fertility
• Blood clots or minor injury to the uterus

These risks are generally manageable and should be discussed with your care team to ensure you’re fully informed. But generally speaking, UFE is considered one of the least risky treatment options for uterine fibroids.

Every woman’s experience with fibroids is unique, and so is the decision-making process when it comes to treatment. The right path for you will depend on your personal health goals, lifestyle, and priorities. Here’s how to navigate the options and find the solution that fits your life.

What Matters Most to You?

Start by asking yourself these three questions to narrow down your choices:

1. Do You Want to Preserve Fertility? If having children in the future is part of your plan, you’ll want a treatment option that prioritizes preserving your uterus and reproductive potential.
2. What’s Your Tolerance for Downtime? Some treatments, like UFE, offer quick recovery and minimal disruption to your daily life, while others, like surgery to remove the fibroids (myomectomy), require weeks or even months of healing time.
3. Are You Looking for a Permanent Solution? If you’re ready to eliminate fibroids for good, a more definitive treatment like hysterectomy might be best. If you prefer to manage symptoms while keeping options open, a less invasive approach may be better.

Here’s a quick way to find the fibroid treatment option that aligns with your priorities:

• Your Priority: If you want to avoid surgery — Recommended Treatment: Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) — Why It's a Good Fit: A minimally invasive procedure offering effective relief, preserving your uterus, and minimizing recovery time.
• Your Priority: If you're planning to conceive soon — Recommended Treatment: Myomectomy — Why It's a Good Fit: Removes fibroids while preserving fertility, making it ideal for women planning future pregnancies.
• Your Priority: If you need symptom relief without long-term commitment — Recommended Treatment: Conservative Treatments (Hormonal Therapy or NSAIDs) — Why It's a Good Fit: Provides short-term symptom management without permanent changes or invasive procedures.

Still unsure which path to take? Our team is ready to answer your questions and help you make an informed decision about uterine fibroid treatment - just click here!

When it comes to managing fibroids, women often have many questions about their options, recovery, and long-term outcomes. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions to help you make informed decisions about your care:

“What are uterine fibroids?”

Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus. They can vary in size and number. While some women experience no symptoms, others may deal with heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, or fertility challenges.

“Is surgery the only way to treat fibroids?”

No. Surgery is one option, but there are many non-surgical treatments available, including Uterine Fibroid Embolization. UFE is a minimally invasive procedure that effectively treats various types of fibroids without the need for major surgery.

“How do I know which fibroid treatment is the best for me?”

The right treatment depends on several factors, such as your symptoms, age, fertility goals, and recovery preferences. For example:

• If you want to avoid surgery, UFE is an excellent option.
• If you’re planning to conceive soon, myomectomy may be your best choice.
• If you need temporary symptom relief, hormonal therapy or NSAIDs might work for you.

“What is the recovery time for fibroid embolization?”

Patients recover from UFE within a few days, making it a much quicker recovery. Surgical options like hysterectomy or myomectomy can take 4-8 weeks for full healing.

“Will fibroids return after treatment?”

This depends on the treatment option. UFE has a fairly low recurrence rate because it targets the blood supply to the fibroids, effectively shrinking them. In contrast, fibroids often regrow after myomectomy or hormonal therapy.

“Will insurance cover my fibroid treatment?”

Most insurance plans cover UFE and other fibroid treatments. It’s a good idea to confirm coverage with your provider before your visit. You can also ask your doctor’s office for assistance with pre-authorization if needed.

You don’t have to live with the pain, heavy bleeding, or discomfort of fibroids. The right treatment can help you regain control of your health, and at North Star Fibroid Clinic, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Why Choose Us for Uterine Fibroid Treatment?

We specialize in Uterine Fibroid Embolization - a proven, minimally invasive treatment that provides long-term relief without surgery. Here’s what sets us apart:

Expert Care: Our experienced interventional radiologists use advanced imaging tests to deliver precise, effective treatment.

Minimally Invasive Treatment: No major incisions, no general anesthesia, and no lengthy recovery.

Personalized Approach: We take the time to understand your unique concerns and recommend the best solution for you.

FDA-Approved & Insurance-Covered: UFE is a recognized and effective treatment backed by leading medical organizations.

Take the Next Step in Fibroid Treatment

If you’re struggling with fibroid symptoms, the first step toward relief is learning about your options. Our team is ready to help you find the best fibroid treatment for your needs.

Call us today: (952) 222-7594

Visit our website: northstarfibroidclinic.com

Location: 8401 Golden Valley Rd., Suite 340, Golden Valley, MN 55427

Don’t wait - schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward relief!