Blog Introduction: Uterine fibroids are a common occurrence in women who are of reproductive age. These noncancerous growths in and around the uterus can often lead to pain, heavy bleeding, and other discomforts. If you live in Arizona and are looking for a minimally invasive solution for uterine fibroids, then embolization might be the right treatment for you. In this blog, we will discuss what uterine fibroids are, how they affect women, and how embolization can help you get back to your daily routine.
What are uterine fibroids and how do they affect women?
Uterine fibroids are benign tumors that can grow on the inside or outside of the uterus. They are composed of muscular tissue and fibrous connective tissue, and they often appear during childbearing years. Uterine fibroids can cause a wide range of symptoms, including heavy periods, pelvic pain, frequent urination, and constipation. The pain and discomfort associated with uterine fibroids can also lead to anxiety, depression, and loss of productivity at work.
What is embolization and how does it help treat uterine fibroids?
Embolization is a minimally invasive procedure that targets uterine fibroids by blocking the blood supply to these noncancerous tumors. During this procedure, a thin catheter is inserted into an artery in the groin or wrist and then guided to the arteries that supply blood to the fibroids. Once the catheter is in place, the doctor injects small particles to block the blood supply, causing the fibroids to shrink and die.
Why is embolization the best solution for uterine fibroids in Arizona?
Embolization is a safe and effective alternative to surgery for the treatment of uterine fibroids. This procedure does not require general anesthesia, and patients can often return to their normal activities within a week of the procedure. Embolization also has a high success rate, with studies showing that 85-90% of women who undergo this procedure see a significant reduction in their symptoms after six months.
What should you expect during and after an embolization procedure in Arizona?
During an embolization procedure, you will receive local anesthesia to numb the incision site and a small dose of sedative to help you relax. Our team of interventional radiologists will perform the procedure under fluoroscopy, a type of imaging that allows us to visualize the blood vessels in real-time. After the procedure, you will need to rest for a few hours to allow the sedative to wear off. You may experience some cramping and spotting for a few days after the procedure, but these symptoms should subside within a week.
How to prepare for an embolization procedure in Arizona?
Before your embolization procedure, you will need to schedule a consultation with a uterine fibroids Arizona interventional radiologist. During this consultation, you will undergo a physical examination, and the doctor will ask about your medical history and current medications. You will also receive instructions on how to prepare for the procedure, including fasting for a certain period, avoiding certain medications, and arranging for transportation to and from the hospital. Our team is always here to answer any questions you may have about the procedure and provide any necessary support.
Uterine fibroids can cause a significant amount of pain and discomfort. Thankfully, embolization is a safe and effective treatment option that can provide women with relief from their symptoms. If you are in Arizona and want to explore the possibility of an embolization procedure, we encourage you to reach out to our team of skilled interventional radiologists today. We are here to help you get the care you need to return to your daily routine and live a pain-free life.