Can Uterine Fibroids Be Treated Without Surgery? Here’s What You Need to Know

Published On: August 14, 2025
uterine fibroids

Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus, affecting up to 70% of women by age 50. While some women never experience symptoms, others face a myriad of symptoms, including

●  Heavy periods

●  Pelvic pain

●  Back pain

●  Frequent urination

●  Enlarged abdomen

●  Anemia

●  Migraines

●  Pain and bleeding during intimacy

●  Reproductive challenges/infertility

For many, the thought of surgery, particularly a hysterectomy or myomectomy, can feel overwhelming or unwanted.

Fortunately, there are non-surgical alternatives that are effective for many patients. These treatments focus on managing fibroid symptoms and shrinking or eliminating fibroids without the risks or downtime associated with surgery. One of the most effective and widely studied options is uterine fibroid embolization in Clinton, Maryland, which offers symptom relief without removing the uterus.

Understanding the available treatment options, their effectiveness, and potential outcomes can empower women to make informed decisions about their care.

What Are Uterine Fibroids?

Uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomas or myomas, are benign tumors composed of muscle and connective tissue. They vary in size, from as small as a seed to as large as a grapefruit, and can grow inside the uterus, within the uterine wall, or on its outer surface.

Though the exact cause remains unclear, fibroid growth is linked to hormonal factors, particularly estrogen and progesterone. Women of African descent, those with a family history of fibroids, and those in their 30s and 40s are more likely to develop them. Symptoms range from mild to debilitating, with the most common being heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pressure, and frequent urination.

Why Many Women Seek Alternatives to Surgery

Surgical options like hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) and myomectomy (removal of fibroids) can be effective but are not ideal for everyone.

Some women wish to preserve their fertility, while others want to avoid general anesthesia, scarring, or long recovery periods. There’s also concern over potential complications and the emotional impact of removing reproductive organs. These valid concerns make non-surgical options especially appealing for women who prioritize uterine preservation or have health conditions that make surgery risky.

Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)

Uterine fibroid embolization is a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure performed by an interventional radiologist. It involves inserting a catheter into the uterine artery and injecting small particles that block blood flow to the fibroids. This causes the fibroids to shrink and die over time.

Most patients experience relief from symptoms such as heavy bleeding and pelvic pain within a few weeks. UFE preserves the uterus, has a lower complication rate than surgery, and usually requires only a few days of recovery.

Studies have shown that UFE is effective for a wide range of fibroid sizes and types, making it a leading option for non-surgical management.

For many women, surgery is no longer the only path to relief from uterine fibroids. Modern medical advances have made it possible to treat symptoms and reduce fibroid size through non-surgical uterine fibroid embolization. UFE stands out as a proven, minimally invasive solution that allows women to take control of their health without undergoing major surgery.

If you’re exploring non-surgical treatments for fibroids, The Fibroid Center at Image Guided Surgery in Clinton, Maryland, offers expert care and personalized treatment plans tailored to your needs. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Gaugau, the UFE expert, and learn more about your options.