Steps to Take to Treat Your Fibroids
Most uterine fibroids are harmless and do not cause symptoms; however, some may be painful, press on internal organs, cause heavy bleeding and possible anemia, or cause infertility problems.
If you have a fibroid problem, there are several treatments to consider, including uterine fibroid embolization (UFE). Doing your research and talking with specialists will help inform and educate you so that you can make the right decision for your treatment.
Below are five steps to get you on the path to treatment:
1. Get Informed
Do your homework. Conduct research on which uterine fibroid treatment options are appropriate for you. Visit websites for such organizations as the National Uterine Fibroid Foundation (www.nuff.org), the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (www.acog.org), and the Society of Interventional Radiology (www.sirweb.org). Also, check out your hospital’s website for information on treatment options.
Seek a second (or third or fourth) opinion. Obtain a copy of your medical records from your OB-GYN, and don’t hesitate to discuss treatment options with other doctors. Make sure you are comfortable and satisfied with the information you hear and the treatment plan you and your doctor decide on. Talking with an Interventional Radiologist (IR), who is familiar with UFE, will help determine if you are a candidate for that treatment option. If you are not, your OB-GYN can provide you with alternative options.
Talk to other women with uterine fibroids. Many hospitals have women’s health seminars that feature fibroids discussions. Hearing about others’ individual experiences, especially those who have undergone UFE, can help you determine if it is a possibility for you.
2. Talk to Your OB-GYN
Make an appointment with your OB-GYN to discuss whether you might be a candidate for UFE.
3. Get Referred to a Specialist
Your OB-GYN is accustomed to referring patients to different types of medical specialists, so he or she will be a great resource for where to go to seek further treatment options. Ask your OB-GYN about UFE and if a specialist, such as those at Indiana Fibroid Center, would be appropriate for treating your symptomatic uterine fibroids and managing your post-procedure care.
4. Find a Specialist
The physicians at Indiana Fibroid Center are some of the most experienced in the Midwest at performing UFE. We are happy to speak with you about your specific symptoms and options for treatment.
5. Talk to a Specialist
Prepare for consultation. If your OB-GYN has diagnosed you with uterine fibroids, you should take a copy of your medical records and any imaging that has confirmed your fibroid tumors, to the consultation with the specialist you have been referred to. A copy of your most recent gynecologic evaluation is also helpful, as an OB-GYN exam is recommended to rule out non-fibroid causes of symptoms.
You don’t have to continue suffering from the discomfort of uterine fibroids. The physicians at Indiana Fibroid Center are dedicated to creating treatment plans that will improve our patients’ comfort and lifestyle. We offer state-of-the-art, minimally invasive, nonsurgical procedures to treat your fibroids, and our experienced staff is committed to providing you with the best care available.
