Uterine Fibroid & Infertility Treatments in New Jersey
What Are Uterine Fibroids?
Uterine fibroids are growths that develop on the muscular wall of the uterus. Fibroids can cause medical problems for some women, including chronic pain or even fertility struggles. Uterine fibroids are somewhat common, with 20 to 40 percent of women over the age of 35 being affected.
Fibroids can dramatically increase in size during pregnancy. They typically improve after menopause when the level of estrogen, the female hormone that circulates in the blood, decreases dramatically. However, menopausal women who are taking supplemental estrogen (hormone replacement therapy) may not experience relief of symptoms.
At the Vascular Institute at AMI, we are dedicated to offering our patients the most effective and least invasive procedures possible. We are passionate about providing the highest quality of fibroid and infertility treatments to the Brick, Galloway, Vineland and Cape May Court House areas.
Contact the specialists at Vascular Institute at AMI today to learn more about uterine fibroid treatment in New Jersey.
Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids
While many fibroids do not lead to discernable symptoms or require treatment, some do based on their size, location, or quantity.
In these cases, fibroids may cause:
- Frequent urination
- Constipation and bloating
- Heavy and prolonged periods
- Anemia due to excessive bleeding
- Pain in the back, legs, and/or pelvis
- Pain during sexual intercourse
UTERINE FIBROID TREATMENT OPTIONS IN NEW JERSEY
Many women who have fibroids do not have any symptoms. For those who do, the fibroids may need to be treated to reduce symptoms and pain. In the past, treatment usually involved surgery – removing the uterus through a hysterectomy, or removing the fibroids from the uterus through a myomectomy.
While these options are generally effective, they require general anesthesia and lengthy recovery times, and they carry the risk of surgical complications. Many women are not candidates for a myomectomy because of the size, number, or location of their fibroids. Fibroids commonly recur after myomectomy.
Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE), or uterine artery embolization, may be used to treat fibroids. It is a minimally invasive procedure in which the blood flow of the uterus is intentionally reduced, causing the fibroid tumors to shrink. It alleviates or improves fibroid symptoms 90% of the time.
The embolization procedure is performed by making a tiny nick in the skin in the groin or wrist and inserting a tube, known as a catheter. Using X-ray imaging, the catheter is guided through the arterial system and into the arteries supplying the uterus. Tiny particles, the size of grains of sand, are then injected into the arteries to block the blood flow to the uterine fibroid.
Our clinical team performs uterine fibroid embolization in our outpatient facility without the need for hospitalization. Our team will prescribe pain medications and anti-inflammatory drugs following the procedure to treat cramping and pain. Many women resume light activities in a few days and the majority of women are able to return to normal activities within seven to ten days.
Frequently Asked Questions
What treatment options are available for uterine fibroids?
- Treatment options for uterine fibroids include medication to manage symptoms, minimally invasive procedures like uterine artery embolization and myomectomy to remove the fibroids, and in severe cases, a hysterectomy to remove the entire uterus.
Can I get pregnant if I have uterine fibroids?
- It depends on the size and location of the fibroids. Some women with fibroids may experience infertility or difficulties during pregnancy, while others can conceive and have healthy pregnancies. Consultation with a fertility specialist is advisable if you have concerns about fertility and fibroids.
How long is the recovery time after fibroid surgery?
- Recovery time varies depending on the type of surgery. Minimally invasive procedures typically have shorter recovery periods compared to a hysterectomy. Full recovery can range from a few days to several weeks, depending on the individual and the chosen treatment.
Will fibroids come back after treatment?
- The recurrence of fibroids after treatment can occur, especially if only the fibroids are removed, and not the entire uterus. The likelihood of recurrence varies, so it's important to discuss potential outcomes and follow-up plans with our New Jersey team.
Which Uterine Fibroid Treatment is Right for Me?
- Choosing the right treatment for uterine fibroids depends on several factors, including your individual symptoms, the size and location of the fibroids, your age, and your desire for future pregnancy. During your consultation at Vascular Institute at AMI, our team will discuss your medical history, perform a physical exam, and may recommend imaging tests to determine the best course of action. We will explain the benefits and risks of each treatment option and work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan.
If you're experiencing symptoms of uterine fibroids, don't hesitate to schedule a consultation with the Vascular Institute at AMI in New Jersey. Our team of compassionate and experienced professionals will work with you to understand your individual needs and develop a personalized treatment plan to help you manage your fibroids and improve your quality of life.
For more information about Uterine Fibroid Treatment at Vascular Institute at AMI, please visit our website or contact us online. Our team of specialists can answer your questions and discuss treatment options that are right for you.
Discover Why UFE is the Preferred Choice for Fibroid Treatment. For a visual guide on UFE, watch our informative video.
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