Uterine fibroids can be diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests. A discussion of symptoms and a pelvic exam or imaging tests that visualize the uterus and pelvis help physicians determine the location, size, and number of fibroids.

While the exact cause of uterine fibroids is unknown, several risk factors have been identified, including:

• Age. Uterine fibroids are most common in women of reproductive age, typically between 30 and 50 years old. Risk of developing fibroids decreases after menopause.
• Family History. If your mother or sister has suffered from uterine fibroids, you are at an increased risk.
• Ethnicity. Studies have shown that certain ethnicities, including Black women, have a higher risk of developing uterine fibroids.
• Hormone Levels. Estrogen and progesterone, the hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle, are thought to play a role in the development and growth of fibroids. Fibroids tend to grow during pregnancy when hormone levels are high and shrink after menopause.
• Obesity. Being overweight may lead to hormonal imbalances, which contribute to fibroid growth.
• Other Medical Conditions. Polycystic ovary syndrome and metabolic syndrome may increase the risk of uterine fibroids.

If you are considering uterine fibroid embolization (UFE), there are alternative procedures options you may want to discuss with your provider:

No Procedure. Smaller fibroids bring fewer symptoms, and some fibroids may shrink naturally after menopause. For fibroids that are small or asymptomatic, a "watchful waiting" approach that includes regular monitoring may be the best course of action.

Medications. Birth control pills and other medications that control hormones can help with temporary relief of pain and discomfort, but only treat the symptoms - not the fibroids.

Surgery:

• Myomectomy. This surgical procedure involves the removal of fibroids while preserving the uterus.
• Hysterectomy. This procedure involves the surgical removal of the uterus, eliminating the possibility of future fibroid growth or symptoms. This is maybe recommended for women who do not wish to bear children in the future.

Endometrial Ablation. This is a minimally invasive procedure that destroys the lining of the uterus, reducing menstrual bleeding for women with small fibroids who primarily have heavy or prolonged periods.

UFE offers a highly effective alternative to surgery and is considered a safe and effective procedure for fibroids. As with any procedure, however, there are potential risks. Complications may include pain and discomfort, allergic reaction to contrast dye, infection at the incision site, damage to surrounding tissues and organs, and rarely, premature menopause. Despite these risks, the overall complication rate associated with UFE is low, and most women who undergo this procedure experience no major issues.

Insurance coverage for uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) can vary depending on specific insurance plans and providers. Before undergoing UFE, Clarity Care's knowledgeable staff can work with you and your insurance company to review coverage details, including preauthorization requirements, necessary documentation, and potential out of pocket costs.

Clarity Care Imaging & Specialty Care is at 9040 Quivira Road in Lenexa, Kansas. Our center is conveniently located just north of Oak Park Mall with easy access from much of the Kansas City area including Overland Park, Olathe, Shawnee, Merriam, Mission, Leawood and Prairie Village.

Clarity Care's subspecialized physicians are board-certified with years of experience in image-guided minimally invasive procedures, offering innovative solutions to a list of conditions and diseases that today can be managed in a convenient, more affordable setting.