Uterine Fibroid Treatment
Nonsurgical Treatment for Fibroids in Cape Girardeau
Uterine fibroids are extremely common. For many women, they can cause heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, and disruption to daily life. If you’ve been told you have fibroids, you may think surgery is your only option. It’s not.
At The Interventional Clinic in Cape Girardeau, we offer a minimally invasive, image-guided treatment called uterine fibroid embolization (UFE). This proven procedure shrinks fibroids, relieves symptoms, and helps you get back to living without major surgery or a long recovery.
Why Treatment Matters
Fibroids are non-cancerous, but their impact can be significant. The right treatment can dramatically improve your quality of life and prevent symptoms from getting worse over time.
Relief From Heavy Bleeding
Reduce prolonged or excessive menstrual bleeding.
Less Pelvic Pain and Pressure
Alleviate discomfort, bloating, and pressure symptoms.
Preserve the Uterus
Avoid hysterectomy with a minimally invasive alternative.
Faster Recovery
Return to normal activities sooner compared to surgery.
What You Need To Know
What Are Uterine Fibroids?
Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus. They can vary in size, number, and location, and while some cause no symptoms, others can significantly affect daily life.
Fibroids are most common in women during their reproductive years.
Common Symptoms
Symptoms may include heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain or pressure, frequent urination, constipation, and abdominal bloating. Some women also experience pain during intercourse or difficulty with fertility.
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause of fibroids isn’t fully understood, but hormones (particularly estrogen) play a key role. Risk factors include age, family history, and hormonal influences.
What Happens If Left Untreated
Fibroids may continue to grow, leading to worsening symptoms such as increased bleeding, anemia, and chronic pelvic discomfort. In some cases, they can interfere with fertility or pregnancy. Early treatment can help manage symptoms and prevent complications.
Take The Fibroid Symptom Quiz
Not sure if your symptoms are related to fibroids? Take our quick, confidential quiz to better understand your risk and whether it’s time to explore treatment.
Fibroid Treatment Options at The Interventional Clinic
We specialize in uterine fibroid embolization (UFE): a minimally invasive alternative to traditional surgical treatments.
Uterine Fibroid Embolization
UFE treats fibroids by blocking their blood supply, causing them to shrink and symptoms to improve over time.
What Happens During UFE
A small catheter is inserted through a tiny puncture, typically in the wrist or groin, and guided to the uterine arteries. Tiny particles are then released to block blood flow to the fibroids, leading to gradual shrinkage while preserving the uterus.
Benefits of UFE
UFE is performed under light sedation, with no large incisions and minimal discomfort. Most patients go home the same day and return to normal activities within one week. The procedure is highly effective in reducing bleeding, pain, and pressure symptoms.
Comparing Fibroid Treatment Options
Women diagnosed with uterine fibroids often have several treatment options depending on their symptoms, fibroid size, and overall health goals. Here’s how uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) compares to traditional surgical treatments like hysterectomy and myomectomy.
|
UFE |
Medications | Myomectomy | Hysterectomy | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Treats |
Fibroids |
Fibroid symptoms | Fibroids | Fibroids |
| Anesthesia |
Twilight sedation |
None | General anesthesia | General anesthesia |
| Incision |
Tiny puncture |
None | Surgical incisions | Major surgical incision |
| Hospital stay |
None |
None | 1-2 nights | 2-3+ days |
| Recovery Time |
1 week |
Ongoing use required | 2-4 weeks | 4-6 weeks |
| Uterus Preserved |
Yes |
Yes | Yes | No |
| Fertility Preserved |
Yes |
Yes | Yes | No |
| Effectiveness |
High |
Moderate | High | High |
| Risk |
Low |
Low (symptoms persist) | Moderate | Moderate |
| Invasiveness |
Minimally invasive |
Non-invasive | Highly invasive | Highly invasive |
Why Choose The Interventional Clinic For Fibroid Treatment
Fibroid treatment should be personalized, effective, and designed around your goals, including preserving your uterus and minimizing downtime.
Specialized
Expertise
Board-certified interventional radiologists experienced in UFE procedures.
Minimally Invasive
Approach
No major surgery, fewer risks, and faster recovery.
Image-Guided
Precision
Advanced imaging ensures accurate, targeted treatment of fibroids.
Patient-Centered
Care
We take time to understand your symptoms, concerns, and future plans, including fertility goals.
Learn More About Minimally Invasive Uterine Fibroid Treatment
If fibroids are affecting your quality of life, you don’t have to settle for managing symptoms or jump straight to surgery. UFE can provide real, lasting relief with less risk.
Schedule a consultation today and find out whether uterine fibroid embolization is right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fibroids
Are Fibroids Cancerous?
No. Fibroids are non-cancerous growths and are very common. However, they can still cause significant symptoms that may require treatment.
Is UFE Painful?
UFE is performed under light sedation. Some cramping afterward is normal but is well-managed with medication and typically improves within a few days.
How Long Is Recovery After UFE?
Many patients notice improvement in bleeding and pressure symptoms within a few weeks, with continued improvement over several months as fibroids shrink.
Can I Still Have Children After UFE?
Many women are able to conceive after UFE, but this depends on individual factors. If fertility is a priority, we’ll discuss all options with you during your consultation.
Will Insurance Cover UFE?
UFE is widely covered by Medicare and most private insurance plans when medically necessary. Our team will verify your benefits and review any costs before treatment.