Treatment for uterine fibroids & adenomyosis in Geelong
What are Fibroids?
Fibroids are non-cancerous masses within the uterus, affecting up to 70% of women. When fibroids are large or numerous, they can cause significant symptoms such as painful and heavy periods, as well as bowel and bladder issues. For those seeking uterine fibroid treatment in Geelong, it’s essential to understand all the available options.
Adenomyosis, another condition affecting the uterus, occurs when endometrial tissue that normally lines the uterus is found within the uterine wall. This abnormal presence of endometrial tissue can lead to heavy, prolonged, and painful periods. If you’re seeking adenomyosis treatment in Geelong, there are effective solutions that can alleviate your symptoms.
What is Uterine Artery Embolisation?
Uterine Artery Embolisation (UAE), also known as Uterine Fibroid Embolisation, is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat symptoms caused by uterine fibroids and adenomyosis. UAE is a well-established and effective alternative to hysterectomy for fibroids, offering relief without the need for major surgery.
UAE has been performed for over 25 years and allows women to manage their symptoms without waiting for menopause or resorting to hysterectomy. For those considering uterine artery embolisation, it’s a safe and effective treatment that targets the fibroids directly, leading to symptom relief. This service is available at our Geelong clinics.
Will I experience pain?
No pain should be experienced during the procedure as anaesthetic is used to make you comfortable.
Following the procedure, it is common to experience ‘post embolisation syndrome’, which can feel like bad period pain. This usually lasts for 4-6 hours at its worst and gradually gets better in the days following.
You will be kept in hospital for 1-2 days following your procedure to ensure that your pain is under control before you are discharged home.
What are the risks?
While uterine artery embolisation is generally safe, there are some risks to consider
- A small number of women may not fully respond to the treatment and might require a second procedure later.
- A small risk of bleeding from the artery access site.
- A small (1%) risk of infection following the procedure.
What are the benefits?
Choosing uterine fibroid treatment through UAE offers several benefits:
- Lower complication rates.
- Shorter recovery times, with most women returning to work within 1-2 weeks.
- Less invasive than traditional surgery.
- A safe and effective treatment option.
- A proven alternative for women who wish to avoid hysterectomy.
How is the procedure performed?
During the procedure, an interventional radiologist inserts a catheter (a thin, flexible tube) into an artery in the groin and navigates it through the blood vessels to the uterine arteries. Once the catheter is in place, small particles are injected to block the blood flow to the fibroids. This causes the fibroids to shrink and die over time, relieving symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and urinary frequency.
Uterine artery embolisation is performed under local anaesthetic and light sedation. Most patients are admitted for only one night after the procedure. Recovery usually takes a few days to a week, during which time patients may experience mild cramping, vaginal discharge, and flu-like symptoms. Most women can return to their normal activities within a few weeks.
UAE is a safe and effective alternative to hysterectomy for fibroids provided at our Geelong clinics for women with symptomatic fibroids. However, as with any medical procedure, there are risks and potential complications, including infection, bleeding, and injury to surrounding organs.
Women considering UAE should discuss the risks and benefits with their healthcare provider and interventional radiologist to determine if it is the right treatment option for them.