Heavy Bleeding

Fibroids and Heavy Bleeding

Many women suffer from heavy cycles without seeking care or evaluation because they assume their cycles are normal.1 Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous tumors that can cause heavy bleeding during your period and/or spotting between cycles. The fibroid bleeding can be so severe in some that it causes anemia. Some patients require iron supplementation or infusions to maintain their blood count. If the anemia is left untreated you can feel fatigued to the point that it interferes with daily activities. It is not uncommon for anemia to cause someone to get dizzy, short of breath or tired. 

How Do Fibroids Cause Heavy Bleeding?

Fibroids can cause a change in the hormone production, contraction and relaxation of the uterine muscle, which may affect the volume of bleeding.2 Fibroids may also cause an increase in vascularity or congestion of the vessels around the uterine lining. Fibroids located along the lining of the uterine cavity, or a submucosal fibroid, can also cause heavy bleeding.3

Menorrhagia – What is typical for fibroids? 

  • Large clots with cycles
  • Cycles lasting more than 7 days
  • Soaking through pads or tampons every 1-2 hours
  • Getting up at night to change pads/tampons 
  • Bleeding through clothes
  • Causes anemia, fatigue, shortness of breath
 
If you are already suffering from heavy menstrual fibroid bleeding with others symptoms below, you probably already know that this combination can make you miserable. Along with these physical symptoms, your emotions can also be impacted by having heavy cycles. If you have fibroids, it is not unusual to experience mood swings, low energy, loss of productivity or even depression.2,4 There is no reason to live in misery trying to avoid surgery, as the UFE procedure is a great option for those with very heavy cycles.  Our specialist has treated many women with fibroid bleeding with resolution by the 3rd cycle.  

Other Fibroid Symptoms:

  • Painful cycles
  • Frequent urination 
  • Bloating or protruding belly
  • Back or leg pain
  • Pelvic pressure 
  • Pain during intercourse
  • Constipation 
  • Difficulty getting pregnant
 

If you experience these symptoms but have not been evaluated, you can request a consultation with our board-certified fibroid specialist. Our fibroid center not only has the top fibroid specialist in California but also the best supportive staff on the day of the procedure to make sure you have a smooth experience.  With multiple offices and telemedicine this should be the first office when you search for a fibroid specialist near me.

Treatment Options for Bleeding Fibroids 

Our fibroid specialist along with your OBGYN will determine the most appropriate treatment option for you. The goal is to treat the root cause of your menstrual bleeding to return your life back to normal as quick as possible. Options include:
 
 

Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) for Fibroid Bleeding

UFE is a great treatment option for heavy or abnormal bleeding for fibroids compared to a hysterectomy or a myomectomy. With a hysterectomy, your uterus is surgically removed, and during a myomectomy, a team surgically removes your fibroids. UFE can help you get your life back without any scarring or hospital stay. It can reduce the size of your fibroids, relieve your symptoms, and retain your fertility. Most women can return to their normal activities in two to seven days.
 

How is the UFE performed? 

  1. You will receive twilight sedation to help you relax 
  2. Our specialist numbs the skin on the wrist or groin
  3. A tiny catheter is placed
  4. Small beads are placed into the fibroid artery 
  5. The catheter is removed
  6. Band-Aid is applied 
  7. Recover at home
 
 

Artery Uterine fibroid embolization San Diego Los Angeles Orange County Fibroid Embolization doctor specialist 

We are Here to Help 

Request an appointment to meet with our fibroid specialist who will review your imaging, labs and history to determine if you are candidate for the procedure, and the outcomes you can expect. Each woman is an individual and should discuss the potential risks and benefits of fibroid embolization and other Treatments with our doctor to decide which option is best for her.

Appointments are available via an online video telehealth platform or in person at one of the offices in Los Angeles, Orange County or San Diego. Why should you choose us? Read here.

1.) Nelson, A. L., & Ritchie, J. J. (2015). Severe anemia from heavy menstrual bleeding requires heightened attention. American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology, 213(1), 97.e1-97.e6.

2.) Gupta, S., Jose, J., & Manyonda, I. (2008). Clinical presentation of fibroids. Best Practice and Research: Clinical Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 22(4), 615–626.

3.) Stewart, E. A. (2001). Uterine fibroids. Lancet, 357(9252), 293–298.

4.) Zimmermann, A., Bernuit, D., Gerlinger, C., Schaefers, M., & Geppert, K. (2012). Prevalence, symptoms and management of uterine fibroids: An international internet-based survey of 21,746 women. BMC Women’s Health, 12(1), 6.

The above information explains what is involved and the possible risks. It is not meant to be a substitute for informed discussion between you and your doctor, but can act as a starting point for such a discussion.
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Virtual remote appointments are available. Contact us for a video telehealth evaluation.

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All appointments conducted by our Board Certified doctor and not assistants or non-physician providers.

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Please note that although we strive to protect and secure our online communications, and use the security measures detailed in our Privacy Policy to protect your information, no data transmitted over the Internet can be guaranteed to be completely secure and no security measures are perfect or impenetrable. If you would like to transmit sensitive information to us, please contact us, without including the sensitive information, to arrange a more secure means of communication. By submitting this form you consent to receive text messages from CVI at the number provided. Msg & data rates may apply. Msg frequency varies. Unsubscribe at any time by replying STOP.

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