Your Questions Answered Here!
While their exact cause remains uncertain, studies indicate that genetic factors and prolonged estrogen exposure could increase the likelihood of developing Fibroids.
The conventional wisdom is that if a patient has no symptoms, treatment may not be needed. However, many women don’t actually understand the extent to which Fibroids may be affecting their lives until they undergo a focused evaluation with a Fibroids specialist. Regardless of how small Fibroids may be on initial discovery, they will likely continue to grow and become more prone to contribute to worsening symptoms. These may include heavy menstrual bleeding, symptomatic anemia, and bulk symptoms such as constipation, bloating, pain during intercourse, increased urinary frequency, and urgency. They may also potentially provoke miscarriages or impaired fertility. As such, you should consult your interventional radiologist and Fibroid specialist to determine if and when treatment may be best for you.
Source: my.clevelandclinic.org
The optimal treatment for your Fibroids depends in part on your preference for a surgical vs a nonsurgical minimally-invasive solution. It also depends on your pregnancy plans, the timing of your intended pregnancy, whether or not you have had miscarriages in the past, as well as your specific clinical presentation. Discuss your unique clinical presentation, fertility goals, and preferences with your interventional radiologist to identify the most suitable option for you.
Source:my.clevelandclinic.org
Fibroids primarily cause weight gain as opposed to weight loss. They often lead to abdominal swelling and symptoms of bloating due to their growth in the abdomen and pelvis. This “fibroid belly” can make the abdomen bulge and even appear several months pregnant, resulting in tightly fitted clothing and feelings of discomfort. Hormonal imbalances, particularly in estrogen and progesterone, may also contribute to the weight gain associated with Fibroids.
Source: maidenlanemedical.com
Uterine Fibroids are a common condition characterized by benign (non-cancerous) tumors developing in the uterus. These muscular tumors are routinely non-cancerous. However, in less than 1% of women presenting with Fibroids, a cancerous tumor can be found. Although a rarity, this statistic makes Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of women with suspected or known Fibroids particularly important.
For uterine Fibroids, it’s helpful to avoid diets high in fat and processed meats. It is also helpful to consume more whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes. Green tea and turmeric contain plant-based compounds that may reduce Fibroid growth. Drinking a few cups of green tea daily might help reduce the growth rate of Fibroids naturally while blunting symptoms.
Source: nutritionfacts.org
Women with uterine Fibroids often feel fatigued. This may be due to increased urinary urgency and frequency or pelvic discomfort that may repeatedly disrupt restful sleep. More commonly, heavy menstrual bleeding may result in anemia, which may result in low energy and fatigue. With fewer red blood cells carrying oxygen through the bloodstream, symptoms like weakness and shortness of breath can further contribute to exhaustion.
Source: fibroidexpert.com
Fibroid symptoms vary in intensity and can be mild or severe, intermittent or constant. During menses, menstrual bleeding is often moderate to severe. Abdominal cramping associated with these periods may also be mild to severe. Abdominal bloating usually worsens leading up to menses and may improve the week after. Positions that place the weight of the Fibroids on the urinary bladder or rectum may worsen compressive symptoms such as urinary frequency or constipation, respectively. Acidic and pro-inflammatory foods may worsen subjective symptoms. Pain associated with Fibroids may occur or worsen during intercourse, exercise, bowel movements, or menstruation and may even radiate down the leg. An enlarged uterus from Fibroids can apply pressure to nearby organs, while pedunculated Fibroids may cause severe pain if their stalk twists.
Source: Fibroids.com
- Chronic Pain: Potentially includes ongoing pelvic pain and severe menstrual cramps.
- Heavy Bleeding: This can lead to anemia, causing progressive fatigue.
- Fertility Challenges: Can complicate conception efforts.
- Mental Health Considerations: Possibility of experiencing fluctuating levels of stress, low mood, or ongoing worry associated with the condition and its impact on life.
- Surgical Risks: In severe cases, surgery such as a hysterectomy may be needed and may represent the only surgical option for definitive treatment, resulting in immediate infertility.
- Menopause Transition: Adenomyosis symptoms usually improve post-menopause due to declining estrogen, but hormone replacement therapy may prolong or reactivate symptoms.
Managing adenomyosis with medical guidance and with the support of an interventional radiologist may reduce these effects.
Source: mayoclinic.org
Adenomyosis can impair fertility by disrupting the normal uterine environment, making implantation difficult. However, many women with adenomyosis can still conceive and have healthy successful pregnancies.
Pain management may include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs such as ibuprofen for inflammation and pain, hormonal treatments to reduce menstrual flow, and heat therapy. Consult a healthcare provider for a tailored approach.
Source: mayoclinic.org
Regular exercise, a balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, and stress reduction techniques can help manage symptoms. Avoiding inflammatory foods may also be beneficial.
Hysterectomy, which is a surgical procedure where the uterus is removed, is the traditional treatment for adenomyosis. However, despite its effectiveness, it results in a loss of fertility. It is also associated with longer recovery times that range from 6 to 12 weeks. Some non-surgical options include hormonal treatments which simply mask symptoms and as such routinely require ongoing treatment. Uterine artery embolization is a highly effective minimally invasive non surgical treatment that treats the actual condition with resolution of symptoms in 75-80% of patients.
Sources:
- mayoclinic.org
- Bae, S. H., Kim, M. D., Kim, G. M., Lee, S. J., Park, S. I., Won, J. Y., & Lee do, Y. (2015). Uterine artery embolization for adenomyosis: percentage of necrosis predicts midterm clinical recurrence. Journal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology, 26(9): 1290-1296. doi: 10.1016/j.jvir.2015.04.026
- Kim, M. D., Kim, Y. M., Kim, H. C., Cho, J. H., Kang, H. G., Lee, C., Kim, H. J., & Lee, J. T. (2011). Uterine artery embolization for symptomatic adenomyosis: a new technical development of the 1-2-3 protocol and predictive factors of MR imaging affecting outcomes. Journal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology, 22(4): 497-502. doi: 10.1016/j.jvir.2011.01.426
The main symptoms of adenomyosis include painful periods and heavy menstrual bleeding, which typically resolve after menopause due to the decrease in estrogen levels.
Adenomyosis does not return after a hysterectomy as the uterus is removed. Medical treatments such as hormonal medications may require ongoing management as symptoms routinely persist without treatment of the underlying condition. Uterine artery embolization has demonstrated long-term relief of symptoms without recurrence in patients with clinical follow-up lasting 48 months post-treatment.
Source: mayoclinic.org
Generally, UAE has a high success rate in providing symptom relief for women with uterine Fibroids. Studies have reported success rates ranging from 85% to 95% in terms of reducing symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, bloating, pelvic pain, and urinary frequency and urgency.
Source: MountSinai.org
Post-UAE, the vast majority of women have consistent periods, which are considerably less heavy and painful, thereby improving their quality of life.
UAE can have risks such as infection, bleeding, or potential impact on future fertility. Discuss with your interventional radiologist for a detailed risk assessment.
General anesthesia is not typically required for UAE; it is usually performed under local anesthesia and conscious sedation.
Patients may experience mild to moderate discomfort during and after UAE, which can be managed with pain medication.
UAE is generally an outpatient procedure, but some cases may require an overnight stay for monitoring.
It’s advisable to wait about 2 weeks after UAE before resuming sexual activities, but consult your interventional radiologist for personal guidance.
UAE is typically performed by an interventional radiologist, not a gynecologist. Consult your interventional radiologist to discuss further.
Follow-up care typically includes visits to assess healing and symptom improvement with your interventional radiologist, supported by post-procedure imaging to assess and document complete treatment and resolution of your Fibroids.
Most women return to normal activities within 1-2 weeks post-UAE, but recovery times can vary based on individual health conditions.
Yes, UAE is widely regarded as a great choice for women who wish to have the option to get pregnant in the future. However, every woman is unique in their circumstances and clinical presentation and should discuss their specific situation and preferences with their interventional radiologist. A 2017 study in the journal Radiology noted that among 359 women with Fibroids who were previously unable to get pregnant, 149 of them were able to have a successful pregnancy after receiving a UAE. This study supported the understanding that UAE restores fertility in many women who are unable to become pregnant because of their Fibroids.
Sources: Spontaneous Pregnancy with a Live Birth after Conventional and Partial Uterine Fibroid Embolization (Published Paper)
There is no limit to the number or size of Fibroids that can be treated by UAE. Since UAE targets the Fibroids by attacking the entire blood vessel network that supports them, regardless of their size or number, UAE provides a highly effective treatment. However, consult your interventional radiologist to discuss the most suitable treatment based on your condition.
The Bahamas Fibroid & Interventional Clinic Medical Tourism Treatment Program includes a personalized pre-treatment consultation with Dr. Mikhail Higgins, followed by a 1-2 night hospital stay for a minimally invasive uterine artery embolization. The remaining recovery period involves comprehensive follow-up care in a supportive environment, ensuring optimal healing with continuous medical support.
No, flights are not included in the package. To confirm what is included, please contact the team at The Bahamas Fibroid & Interventional Clinic.
Yes, you may feel free to bring your family. We request that you have a travel companion with you to accompany and support you during your trip.
The medical recovery and stay for The Bahamas Fibroid & Interventional Clinic Medical Tourism Treatment Program spans 8 days in The Bahamas. It begins with a consultation with our anesthesiology team, followed by admission to our facility for a 1-night stay for the uterine artery embolization procedure. The remaining days are for post-treatment recovery, rest and follow-up. Patients then undergo three follow-ups over the course of 1-year.
The villa, hotel or resort you will stay at depends on our current accommodation partnerships and room availability at any given time. Once you’ve been confirmed for the program, we’ll provide specific details. At that time, please check the terms directly with the BFIC team or contact us for accurate information on what’s included in each package level.
BFIC is located within the Family Medical Center in Nassau, The Bahamas, with a satellite office also in Rocks Sound, Eleuthera.
Please see the address and typical operating hours of our flagship office:
Address:
Family Medical Center, Nassau, The Bahamas
Operating Hours (subject to change due to renovations):
Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM ET
Saturday: 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM ET
Sunday: Closed
For the most current information, please contact the clinical manager directly at +1-242-818-BFIC.
Yes, there is ample parking at the facility.
Dr. Mikhail Higgins, the lead interventional radiologist, heads a small team within the clinic. For comprehensive information about available doctors and specialists, please inquire directly.
We only accept referrals and bookings in advance; walk-ins are not permitted. Please arrange your appointment ahead of time. Please contact the clinical manager directly at +1-242-818-BFIC.
For your consultation with Dr. Higgins, bring:
- ID
- Referral letter
- Medical history
- Imaging reports (ultrasound, MRI, CT)
- Lab results
- Medication list
- Insurance information
These documents will support Dr. Higgins in tailoring your treatment plan.
Many women with Fibroids can still conceive naturally. Managing and treating Fibroids effectively is essential to minimize their impact on fertility.
While a myomectomy is regarded as a slightly better procedure for women who desire pregnancy immediately post-procedure, UAE is regarded as a great choice for women who wish to have the option to get pregnant in the future. However, every woman is unique in their circumstances and clinical presentation and should discuss their specific situation and preferences with their interventional radiologist. A 2017 study in the journal Radiology noted that among 359 women with Fibroids who were previously unable to get pregnant, 149 of them were able to have a successful pregnancy after receiving a UAE. This study supported the understanding that UAE restores fertility in many women who are unable to become pregnant because of their Fibroids.
Sources: Spontaneous Pregnancy with a Live Birth after Conventional and Partial Uterine Fibroid Embolization (Published Paper)
You can manage Fibroids at any age, but fertility typically declines as you get older. Treatment options should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
After undergoing Uterine Artery Embolization (UAE), it’s generally recommended to wait 3 to 6 months before trying to conceive to allow the uterus to heal.
Yes, it is possible to have a natural birth after being treated for Fibroids. However, this depends on your age, as well as a number of factors relating to your fertility wellness. A 2017 study in the journal Radiology noted that among 359 women with Fibroids who were previously unable to get pregnant, 149 of them were able to have a successful pregnancy after receiving a UAE. This study supported the understanding that UAE restores fertility in many women who are unable to become pregnant because of their Fibroids.
Sources: Spontaneous Pregnancy with a Live Birth after Conventional and Partial Uterine Fibroid Embolization (Published Paper)
If you discover you have Fibroids during pregnancy, monitor them closely with your obstetrician to manage symptoms and assess any risks to your pregnancy. You may consider consulting your interventional radiologist post-pregnancy to assess and discuss your Fibroid treatment options.