Uterine fibroids can make day-to-day living a challenge for many women, but they are especially prevalent among women of color. Up to 80% of Black women experience fibroids by age 50, and Hispanic women are twice as likely to develop them compared to white women. Despite this, a significant number of affected women are unaware of the range of treatment options available, including uterine fibroid embolization (UFE), a non-surgical procedure performed by interventional radiologists.
UFE involves inserting a catheter through a tiny incision and guiding it using real-time medical imaging to the blood vessels supplying the fibroids. Small particles are then injected to block blood flow, causing the fibroids to shrink over time. Compared to open surgical options like hysterectomy, UFE typically results in less pain and a shorter recovery period—days versus weeks or months. The procedure is covered by all major insurance plans and is endorsed by the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecologists (ACOG).
Kenya Green, a patient who experienced fibroids for decades, shared her story: "Before UFE, my entire life was planned around my fibroids—what I could wear, where I could go—all to manage the symptoms and pain. When I asked my OBGYN what my options were, I was told I could go on birth control or that I needed to have a hysterectomy." After learning about UFE from a friend and consulting an interventional radiologist, Green underwent the procedure and has since experienced a marked improvement in her quality of life. "I no longer have to plan my life and my wardrobe around my fibroid symptoms. I am pain free and living a life of abundance."
John Lipman, MD, an interventional radiologist and founder of the Atlanta Fibroid Center, emphasizes that fibroids are the number one reason women undergo hysterectomy, which is often unnecessary. "UFE is an absolute game changer for fibroid sufferers, but the biggest problem is that most patients are unaware of this outstanding procedure and need to obtain a second opinion from an interventional radiologist," he said. Studies show that 36% of Black women and 22% of Hispanic women mistakenly believe they are not at risk of developing fibroids, highlighting the need for greater awareness and access to diagnosis and treatment.
As July is Uterine Fibroid Awareness Month, all women are encouraged to learn about their options. For more information, visit the Radiology Health Equity Coalition Uterine Fibroid Resources page.
