How to Prepare for Your First Fibroid Consultation
Scheduling your first fibroid consultation is a meaningful step toward understanding your symptoms and getting the care you need. This visit gives you the opportunity to explain what you’ve been experiencing, learn what your imaging shows, and receive guidance on the best treatment options. With good preparation, you can make the most of your appointment and ensure your specialist has everything needed to give you an accurate, personalized assessment.
Below are the six essential steps to help you arrive informed, organized, and ready to take an active role in your treatment plan.
1. Know Your Medical History
Your overall health plays a central role in determining which fibroid treatments are safe and effective for you.
Actionable step: Write down your chronic conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes, any past surgeries, and all medications or supplements you take.
Why it matters: Certain health factors may influence whether minimally invasive fibroid treatment such as UFE is appropriate.
2. Document Your Uterine Fibroid Symptoms
Describing your symptoms clearly helps your doctor understand how fibroids are affecting your daily life.
Actionable step: Keep a symptom journal for one to three months. Note the length and heaviness of your periods, how often you change pads or tampons, the frequency of pelvic pain, and any changes in urination or bowel habits.
Impact: This level of detail gives your specialist a more complete picture and leads to better treatment recommendations.
3. Understand What Fibroids Are
Knowing the basics before the appointment helps you follow the discussion more easily.
Actionable step: Read about the different types of fibroids and common treatment options so you’re familiar with the terminology.
Benefit: When your specialist reviews your imaging and explains your fibroid type, you’ll be better able to ask meaningful questions and understand the proposed plan.
4. Gather Existing Imaging and Lab Results
Having recent imaging and lab work ready allows your specialist to move directly into diagnosis and planning.
Actionable step: Request copies of any ultrasounds, MRIs, or relevant blood tests and have them forwarded to the specialist before your visit.
Efficiency: This avoids repeating tests unnecessarily and helps your appointment stay focused on solutions.
5. Prepare a List of Questions
A written list ensures you cover your most important concerns during the consultation.
Questions to consider asking:
– What type and size of fibroids do I have?
– Am I a candidate for UFE or another minimally invasive option?
– What recovery time should I expect?
– How might treatment affect fertility or future family planning?
6. Bring a Support Person
A support person can help you process information and stay grounded during the appointment.
Actionable step: Invite a trusted friend or family member to join you. They can take notes, help you remember key points, and offer encouragement as you plan next steps.
Final Thoughts
Your first fibroid consultation marks a turning point from living with symptoms to actively pursuing relief. By preparing your medical history, tracking your symptoms, and organizing your questions, you give your specialist the tools needed to provide an accurate diagnosis and tailored recommendations. This preparation strengthens your confidence and sets the stage for choosing the most effective fibroid treatment for your needs. Request an appointment with us today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Ideally, both. A gynecologist can confirm the presence of fibroids and rule out other conditions, while an interventional radiologist can advise you on minimally invasive options such as UFE.
They may ask about pain during intercourse, as this can be an important symptom of fibroids. Honest answers help your doctor identify how the fibroids are affecting your quality of life.
Most first-time consultations take 30 to 60 minutes, especially when reviewing imaging and discussing multiple treatment options.