Uterine Fibroids

My doctor said I might have uterine fibroids. What does that mean?

Fibroids are benign tumors of the uterus that are very common in women of reproductive age.

What kind of testing do I need?

If your doctor suspects fibroids, the first test is usually an ultrasound. MRI may also be helpful to determine the location and size of your fibroids.

Do my fibroids need treatment?

Your doctor may recommend treatment if your fibroids are causing abnormal bleeding, pain, pressure, or bloating. Possible treatments include:

1. oral medication
2. uterine artery embolization (UAE)
3. myomectomy, which is surgical removal of the fibroids
4. hysterectomy, which is surgical removal of the entire uterus.
5. Magnetic Resonance-Guided Focused Ultrasound

What is uterine artery embolization?

Uterine Artery Embolization shrinks uterine fibroids by blocking their blood supply. Small particles are injected into the arteries that supply blood to the fibroids.

What is Magnetic Resonance-Guided Focused Ultrasound?

Magnetic Resonance-Guided Focused Ultrasound uses ultrasound to heat and destroy fibroids, under MRI guidance.

Talk to your doctor. For women with bleeding, pain, pelvic pressure or bloating, ultrasound and MRI can determine if fibroids are the cause, and can help guide treatment.