Painful Cycle? A New Treatment For Uterine Fibroids
If even thinking about your monthly cycle makes you miserable, don't suffer in silence. Confide in your doctor about your discomfort. They can help you to work through your menstrual health concerns.
What’s causing my uncomfortable periods?
A heavy, painful menstrual cycle can be caused by symptomatic uterine fibroids. These are common, non-cancerous tumors that grow in the wall of the uterus. They most often occur in women ages 30-50.
What are the symptoms of uterine fibroids?
Not all women with fibroids have symptoms, but some will experience:
- Heavy bleeding
- Pelvic pain
- Bleeding between periods
- Frequent urination
- Discomfort during sex
- Rectal pressure
- Low back pain
- Constipation
- Bloating or fullness in your abdomen
- Reproductive concerns
- Pregnancy complications
Up to 80 percent of women may have a uterine fibroid in their lifetime, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
What causes uterine fibroid tumors?
The cause of uterine fibroids is unknown, but we believe hormones likely play a role. Age, family history and eating habits can increase a woman’s risk. African-American women and those with a high BMI are also more susceptible.
A minimally invasive treatment for uterine fibroids
If your doctor determines that you have fibroid tumors, you may be a candidate for Acessa, a minimally invasive treatment for uterine fibroids. Also known as Laparoscopic Radiofrequency Ablation (Lap RFA) this procedure uses radiofrequency energy to heat and shrink fibroids, which relieves their symptoms.
Is Acessa right for me?
This outpatient procedure is a good option for women who want a quick recovery and to preserve their uterus. Most women go home the same day as the procedure and return to work in less than 5 days. Women will begin to feel relief from their uncomfortable symptoms within the first few months.
Until recently there were only a few ways to treat symptomatic uterine fibroids, including hysterectomy, surgery to remove the uterus, or myomectomy, which is surgery to remove the fibroids. While these procedures are effective treatments for uterine fibroids, they require a longer recovery time and carry more risk than Acessa.
If you have symptomatic fibroids, or any of the associated symptoms, talk with your primary care provider about options for relief.
