July is fibroids awareness month. These small, muscular tumors may seem benign, but their existence can have tremendous negative impacts on a woman’s life. By the age of 50, as many as 45% of white females and 60% of African American females have had fibroids. During the month of July, ECCO wants to help raise awareness around a subject that isn’t often discussed and empower women with the confidence and knowledge they need to have a productive conversation with their doctor.
Know Uterine Fibroid Symptoms
If you, or someone you know, are suffering from the symptoms below, talk to your doctor and ask as many questions as it takes to feel comfortable with a treatment plan.
- Heavy bleeding during periods
- Menstrual cycles that become progressively heavier and longer over time
- Symptoms of anemia, including increased fatigue or dizziness
- Feelings of fullness or heaviness in the pelvic area
- Leg or lower back pain
- Pelvic pressure and bloating; enlargement of the abdomen; constipation
- Increased urinary frequency, caused by fibroids pressing on the bladder
- Pain during sex
- Large or numerous fibroids can sometimes cause infertility
Understand the Treatments
There are a few treatment options available for those seeking help with their uterine fibroids. For many years more traditional methods, like a hysterectomy, were the only way to treat them. However, Uterine Fibroid Embolization (or UFE) is an established, proven and much gentler procedure that ECCO proudly offers. One of the biggest advantages to UFE at ECCO Medical is the fact that it occurs in an office-based setting. This means no hospital stays, a lower risk of infection, quicker recovery and no general anesthesia. Additionally, there are a number of benefits to this non-surgical procedure:
- Preservation of the uterus
- Heavy menstrual bleeding decrease from symptomatic fibroids
- Urinary dysfunction improves
- Pelvic pain and/or pressure lessens significantly
- Virtually no blood loss
- Overall, significant improvement in patient’s physical and emotional well-being
Get Informed and Involved
With an increase in discussion around uterine fibroids, organizations, research and data are much more accessible. Below are some valuable resources that can help women feel confident and empowered during their next conversation with their doctor.
*Featured Image and video courtesy of ©Merit Medical-used with permission.
