Survey Finds that Many Women Do not Know about UFE

Uterine fibroids are common, noncancerous growths in the uterus that can cause a variety of symptoms, including heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and frequent urination. Despite the prevalence of fibroids, many women are unaware of minimally invasive treatment options like Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE), which could significantly improve their quality of life. According to a report from News Medical Life Sciences, a recent survey conducted by The Harris Poll on behalf of the Society of Interventional Radiology highlights a striking gap in awareness about UFE and other non-surgical options among women diagnosed with fibroids.

Understanding Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)

UFE is a minimally invasive procedure performed by interventional radiologists. It involves inserting a catheter into the uterine arteries and delivering small particles to block the blood flow to fibroids. Without blood supply, the fibroids shrink, alleviating symptoms such as heavy bleeding and pelvic pain. Unlike a hysterectomy, which removes the uterus, UFE preserves the uterus and offers a much shorter recovery time. Most patients can resume normal activities within a week.

This treatment can be life-changing for women who wish to avoid surgery and maintain their uterine health, yet it remains under-discussed in many medical consultations.

The Survey Findings on UFE Awareness

The survey findings reported in News Medical Life Sciences shed light on the limited awareness of UFE among women with fibroids:

Only 17% of women diagnosed with fibroids were presented with UFE as a treatment option.
53% of women were offered hysterectomy as a solution, while far fewer were informed about minimally invasive alternatives.
Among those who knew about UFE, only 40% had learned about it from a healthcare provider.

Alarmingly, 17% of women mistakenly believe that hysterectomy is the only available treatment for fibroids. This misconception is particularly common among younger women aged 18–34, with 27% holding this belief. Such gaps in awareness often lead women to undergo more invasive procedures without exploring less disruptive options.

Disparities in Awareness Among Women of Color

The survey also revealed disparities in awareness and perceptions of fibroid risks among different demographic groups. While Black and Hispanic women are at higher risk for developing fibroids, many in these communities are unaware of this fact:

Nearly 2 in 5 Black women (37%) and 22% of Hispanic women reported believing they are not at risk for fibroids.
Over half of Hispanic women (56%) and young women aged 18–34 reported being unfamiliar with uterine fibroids altogether.

These statistics emphasize the need for targeted education to ensure that women from all backgrounds are informed about their risk factors and treatment options.

The Role of Patient Education

Healthcare providers must play a proactive role in discussing both surgical and non-surgical options with their patients. Without comprehensive information, many women may unknowingly choose more invasive procedures, unaware that UFE could provide a less burdensome solution.

How Preferred Fibroid Supports Awareness and Treatment

Preferred Fibroid is dedicated to increasing awareness about UFE and providing personalized care for women suffering from fibroids. With expertise in minimally invasive techniques, Preferred Fibroid ensures that patients understand their full range of options and receive treatment tailored to their needs. By offering consultations with interventional radiologists and a patient-first approach, they aim to bridge the gap in education and accessibility for fibroid treatment.

Advocating for Comprehensive Care

Addressing the gap in awareness about UFE requires collaboration across the healthcare system. Medical professionals, advocacy groups, and treatment centers like Preferred Fibroid must work together to inform women about all available treatment options. This includes:

Encouraging second opinions to ensure patients receive balanced information.
Promoting educational campaigns that target high-risk groups.
Training healthcare providers to discuss minimally invasive treatments alongside traditional surgical options.

Women deserve to have all the facts about their healthcare choices, allowing them to make decisions that align with their personal preferences and lifestyle goals.

Find out more

The survey findings reported in News Medical Life Sciences underscore the urgent need for better education about uterine fibroid treatments. UFE is a safe, effective, and minimally invasive option that many women could benefit from if they were made aware of it. By advocating for comprehensive care and partnering with experts like Preferred Fibroid, we can ensure that all women have access to the information and treatments they deserve. Contact us today!

For more information: Survey reveals many women unaware of minimally invasive uterine fibroid treatments