Fibroids, noncancerous growths of the uterus, are a very common issue among women of reproductive age and are a treatable condition. The problem is that women often don’t receive the best treatment due to misconceptions and rumors. These myths lead to confusion and anxiety for women facing fibroid-related issues.
In our part of the world, women with little knowledge about the most effective treatment for fibroids often seek various setups that further misguide them and often do not provide quality treatment. Some opt for alternative and complementary medicine, while others consult religious scholars practicing hakeemi medicine and dam durood. All of this can lead to mental turmoil and a lot of wasted money. In the end, women become tired, and frustrated, and leave their condition untreated.
At times, women are also told that if they get treatment for fibroids done, they’ll either lose their uterus or it’ll get burnt. Which isn’t the case. Yes, there are some very serious conditions where the patient is duly informed that their uterus might get removed as a result of treatment, but that’s very rare, and not necessary either. And, at the end of the day, fibroid treatment is done to ensure a woman’s uterus health is maintained.
Here, we explore some common myths that prevail in our society and reveal the truth behind them.
Myth 1: Surgery is the only treatment option
One of the most pervasive myths about fibroid treatment is that surgery is the only solution. While surgical procedures like myomectomy (removal of fibroids) or hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) are effective options, they are not the only ones. Many non-surgical treatments are available, including medication, uterine artery embolization, and focused ultrasound therapy. The choice of treatment depends on factors such as the size and location of the fibroids, as well as the patient’s preferences and future family plans.
Women who opt for surgical treatment often wonder, “Is fibroid surgery high risk?” Well, like any other surgery, fibroid surgery carries its own risks. The safest option for fibroids is a minimally invasive procedure like uterine artery embolization.
Myth 2: All fibroids require treatment
Not all fibroids require immediate treatment. In fact, many women have small fibroids that cause no symptoms and do not affect their quality of life. After considering factors such as size, location, and symptoms associated with fibroids, the doctor develops an individualized treatment plan. In some cases, a “watch and wait” approach may be recommended, allowing the patient to monitor the fibroids’ progression without intervention.
Myth 3: Fibroids always recur after treatment
While fibroids can sometimes regrow after treatment, the idea that they always do is a myth. The recurrence of fibroids depends on several factors, including the type of treatment received and individual patient characteristics.
Uterine artery embolization is a minimally invasive technique recently introduced in Pakistan by Dr. Imtiaz Ahmed. This procedure has a very low recurrence rate and is also the best treatment for large fibroids. According to a study, women who get fibroids treated in the UAE require fewer days off work, have shorter hospital stays, and experience fewer side effects.
Myth 4: Pregnancy is impossible after fibroid treatment
Another common misconception is that fibroid treatment, particularly hysterectomy or myomectomy, makes it impossible for women to conceive and have a successful pregnancy. While these surgical procedures can affect fertility in some cases, many women can still have children after fibroid treatment. In this regard, UAE is a lifesaver technique. This minimally invasive procedure preserves fertility and allows women to conceive in the future.
Myth 5: Natural remedies alone can cure fibroids
There is a growing interest in natural remedies for various health conditions, including fibroids. While some dietary and lifestyle changes may help manage fibroid symptoms, they are unlikely to cure the condition entirely, especially for women with larger or more symptomatic fibroids. It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment plan, which may include a combination of medical, surgical, and lifestyle interventions.
Myth 6: Fibroids are always painful
Not all fibroids cause pain or discomfort. In fact, many women with fibroids do not experience any symptoms. Fibroid symptoms can vary widely from person to person and can include heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain or pressure, and frequent urination. The absence of symptoms does not mean that fibroids should be left untreated, but it highlights the importance of individualized care and consultation with a healthcare provider.
Fibroids are a benign condition, but the myths related to them make treatment difficult. It’s essential to rely on accurate information and consult with a healthcare provider to make informed decisions about fibroid treatment. Remember that there are various treatment options available, and the best approach will depend on your unique circumstances and preferences.
Dr. Imtiaz Ahmed, an interventional radiologist and endovascular surgeon, is a specialist who has helped many women get rid of this disease, preserve their uterus, and live a peaceful life. He works on the principles of minimally invasive surgery and introduced new medical treatments for fibroids in Pakistan. He believes in empowering women so that they can take control of their health and make choices that are right for them.
To clear your concepts and learn more authentic information about fibroids and their treatment, contact us at info@drimtiazahmad.com. Follow us on Instagram @Profdr_imtiaz_ahmad for daily updates.
Fibroids, also known as uterine leiomyomas or myomas, are noncancerous growths of the uterus that often appear during childbearing years. Anatomically, fibroids are divided into submucosal fibroids, myometrial fibroids, also known as intramural fibroids, and subserosal fibroids. They can cause various symptoms and discomfort, prompting many women to seek treatment.
What are Submucosal Fibroids?
Submucosal fibroids are benign tumors that grow underneath the uterine lining (endometrium). Unlike other types of fibroids that can develop in different parts of the uterine wall, submucosal fibroids protrude into the uterine cavity. This positioning can lead to distinctive symptoms and complications.
Causes of submucosal fibroids:
The exact cause of submucosal fibroids is not fully understood. However, several factors may contribute to their development:
Genetics:
A family history of fibroids can increase the risk. Genetics may make some women more predisposed to fibroid growth.
Hormones:
Hormonal fluctuations, particularly high levels of estrogen and progesterone, are believed to play a role in the growth of fibroids, including submucosal ones.
Pregnancy:
Pregnancy hormones can sometimes stimulate the growth of submucosal fibroids, although these usually shrink after childbirth.
Common symptoms:
The presence of submucosal fibroids can lead to a range of symptoms, which can vary in severity. Common signs and symptoms include:
Heavy menstrual bleeding:
Excessive menstrual bleeding, known as menorrhagia, is a hallmark symptom of submucosal fibroids. This can lead to anemia over time due to blood loss.
Pelvic pain and pressure:
A bulky uterus with fibroids can cause a feeling of fullness or pressure in the lower abdomen, sometimes leading to discomfort and pain.
Frequent need to pee:
If a submucosal fibroid presses against the bladder, it can cause a frequent need to urinate.
Pain during intercourse:
Submucosal fibroids can sometimes interfere with sexual intercourse and cause pain or discomfort.
Infertility:
In severe cases, these fibroids can interfere with fertility and may lead to difficulty conceiving or maintaining a pregnancy.
Treatment options:
The choice of treatment for submucosal fibroids depends on the severity of symptoms, the patient’s age, and their desire for future fertility. Here are some common treatment options:
Watchful waiting:
If the fibroids are small and not causing significant symptoms, a doctor may recommend a “watch and wait” approach, monitoring their growth over time.
Medications:
Hormonal medications, such as birth control pills or intrauterine devices (IUDs) with hormones, can help manage heavy menstrual bleeding and reduce pain.
Hysteroscopic resection:
For small submucosal fibroids that are causing severe symptoms, a hysteroscopic resection can be performed. This involves removing the fibroids through the cervix using a thin, lighted instrument called a hysteroscope.
Myomectomy:
In cases where fertility preservation is important, a myomectomy can be performed to remove the fibroids while leaving the uterus intact. This can be done through minimally invasive techniques or open surgery, depending on the size and location of the fibroids.
Hysterectomy:
If other treatments are not effective or if the fibroids are causing severe symptoms and there’s no desire for future pregnancies, a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) may be recommended.
This is a minimally invasive technique in which the blood supply to the uterine fibroids is blocked with a highly advanced 3-D precision guided endovascular procedure. It involves the insertion of a catheter into a blood vessel, typically in the groin area, which is then guided to the uterine arteries supplying blood to the fibroids. Small embolic agents are injected through the catheter to block these arteries, essentially starving the fibroids of their nutrient supply. Over time, the fibroids shrink.
This is a state-of-the-art technique performed by highly skilled radiologists who use real-time 3-D imaging for accuracy. In Pakistan, this technique has been introduced by Dr. Imtiaz Ahmed, who himself is an expert endovascular surgeon and an interventional radiologist. He has years of experience in treating fibroids via minimally invasive techniques.
The major advantages of 2-D image guided UAE over other invasive modalities are that it is minimally invasive, which means there will be no cuts, stitches, risk of infection, and surgery-related morbidity. The recovery time is quick, and patients can return to normal activities the same day. The results are promising, with researchers reporting up to a 90-95% successful resolution in pain, bleeding, and discomfort after undergoing UAE.
Consult Dr. Imtiaz Ahmad now for an expert opinion. He also specializes in the minimally invasive treatment of other types of fibroids, adenomyosis, and polyps. For more information regarding submucosal fibroids treatment, contact us. Email us at info@drimtiazahmad.com. Follow us on Instagram @Profdr_imtiaz_ahmad for more information and daily updates.
During the procedure, a skilled endovascular surgeon or an interventional radiologist uses image guidance to navigate catheters through the blood vessels to the site of the venous leak in 3-D imaging.. Once the problematic veins are located, the radiologist will use FDA-approved embolic agents to block or seal off these veins.
The benefits of this procedure are its minimally invasive nature, meaning there will be no cuts, sutures, or related complications. Recovery is quick, and the patient is usually discharged home on the same day or the following morning.
While many men can face problems maintaining an erection, not everyone can be labeled as having erectile dysfunction. So the question arises, how long does temporary erectile dysfunction last? Usually, a person should experience symptoms of ED consistently for more than 6 months before being diagnosed as having ED. It is also very important to consult an expert for the correct diagnosis of venous leak as a cause of ED.
Dr. Imtiaz Ahmed, an interventional radiologist and endovascular surgeon, is the best doctor to visit for venous leak issues. He has been practicing for years in his field and is an expert in diagnosing and treating venous leak. He also specializes in other causes of erectile dysfunction.
For more information email us at info@drimtiazahmad.com. Follow us on Instagram @Varicocele_and_venous_leak for more information and daily updates.
Erectile Dysfunction (ED) is a condition in which men have difficulty maintaining an erection. Many people believe that arterial insufficiency is the only vascular cause of ED, but what they don’t know is that vascular causes can be broadly divided into arterial and venous causes.
Can venous insufficiency cause erectile dysfunction?
Venous insufficiency literally means the pooling of blood. Normally, blood enters the penis through arteries and leaves via veins. During arousal, blood flow is blocked by veins, allowing it to remain in the penile vessels for a longer period, which helps in achieving an erection.
A venous leak occurs when the veins responsible for trapping blood within the penis during an erection are unable to maintain the necessary pressure. When this happens, blood leaks out of the penile tissues, leading to an insufficient or weak erection.
It’s essential to recognize that venous leak is not as widely discussed as other causes of ED, such as hormonal imbalances, nerve damage, and psychological factors. This lack of awareness may prevent many men from realizing that venous leak could be the root of their erectile problems.
Factors contributing to venous leak:
Sometimes the issue of venous leak can be present from birth, while in other cases, several factors can contribute to its development.
Age:
As men age, the elasticity of their blood vessels may decrease, making them more susceptible to venous leak.
Health condition:
Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension, or cardiovascular diseases, can affect blood vessel health and contribute to venous leak.
Trauma
Injury to the penile area, surgery, or pelvic fractures can damage the veins responsible for maintaining proper blood flow.
Lifestyle factors:
Unhealthy habits like smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, or a sedentary lifestyle can increase the risk of developing venous leak.
Venous leak cure:
The good news is that venous leak-related ED is treatable, and there are several approaches that individuals can explore:
Lifestyle changes:
Adopting a healthier lifestyle by quitting smoking, reducing alcohol intake, maintaining a healthy weight, and engaging in regular physical activity can positively impact overall vascular health, potentially reducing the severity of venous leak.
Boron for erectile dysfuction has been shown to produce very effective results in improving sexual health in men.
Medications:
Some medications, such as PDE5 inhibitors (commonly known as Viagra), work by enhancing the body’s ability to maintain an erection. These can be effective for some individuals with venous leak, but they may not address the underlying issue directly. PDE5 inhibitors are also effective for nerve damage in erectile dysfunction treatment.
Penile injections:
Injectable medications can be directly administered into the penis to stimulate blood flow, often producing an erection.
Vaccum erection devices:
These devices create a vacuum around the penis, drawing blood into the area, and then using a constriction band to maintain the erection.
Surgery:
In severe cases, surgical procedures like penile venous ligation or arterialization may be considered to address the specific venous leak issue. However, these options have a very high failure rate and potential complications, leading to minimal usage of surgery for treating venous leak.
It is a minimally invasive procedure that aims to address venous leak. The process typically begins with advanced diagnostic imaging, such as dynamic cavernosography or Doppler ultrasound. These imaging techniques help identify the specific veins causing the venous leak.
During the procedure, a skilled endovascular surgeon or an interventional radiologist uses image guidance to navigate catheters through the blood vessels to the site of the venous leak in 3-D imaging.. Once the problematic veins are located, the radiologist will use FDA-approved embolic agents to block or seal off these veins.
The benefits of this procedure are its minimally invasive nature, meaning there will be no cuts, sutures, or related complications. Recovery is quick, and the patient is usually discharged home on the same day or the following morning.
While many men can face problems maintaining an erection, not everyone can be labeled as having erectile dysfunction. So the question arises, how long does temporary erectile dysfunction last? Usually, a person should experience symptoms of ED consistently for more than 6 months before being diagnosed as having ED. It is also very important to consult an expert for the correct diagnosis of venous leak as a cause of ED.
Dr. Imtiaz Ahmed, an interventional radiologist and endovascular surgeon, is the best doctor to visit for venous leak issues. He has been practicing for years in his field and is an expert in diagnosing and treating venous leak. He also specializes in other causes of erectile dysfunction.
For more information email us at info@drimtiazahmad.com. Follow us on Instagram @Varicocele_and_venous_leak for more information and daily updates.
Varicocele is a medical condition that affects the male reproductive system, causing the enlargement of veins within the scrotum. Although it is a common issue, many men may not be aware of its implications on fertility and overall health.
How Varicocele Usually Presents:
Varicocele typically presents as a painless or mildly uncomfortable swelling in the scrotum. It is most commonly found on the left side, but it can occur on the right side or sometimes on both sides. The characteristics of how varicocele presents can vary among individuals, and not everyone with varicocele will experience noticeable symptoms.
Here are the typical ways varicocele may present:
When palpating the scrotum, the veins affected by varicocele may feel enlarged and tortuous, like a bag of worms.
Varicoceles may cause visible swelling or bulging in the scrotum, especially when standing or during physical activity. The swelling usually disappears or becomes less prominent when lying down.
Some individuals with varicocele may experience a dull, dragging pain or discomfort in the scrotum or lower abdomen.
Varicoceles can sometimes interfere with sperm production or function, leading to reduced fertility or infertility. However, not all men with varicoceles experience fertility issues.
How Varicocele Affects Health and Overall Well-being:
Varicocele and Male Infertility:
One of the primary reasons why varicocele is essential to address is its association with male infertility. The enlargement of veins within the scrotum can lead to elevated testicular temperatures, which, in turn, affects sperm production and quality. This can result in reduced sperm count, motility, and morphology, all of which are critical factors in achieving successful conception. By understanding varicocele’s impact on fertility, men can take proactive steps to address the condition and enhance their chances of starting a family.
Testicular Health and Well-being:
Besides its influence on fertility, varicocele can also lead to discomfort and pain in the scrotum. Left untreated, the condition can cause testicular atrophy, leading to irreversible shrinkage of the testicles. This may have a significant impact on a man’s self-esteem and quality of life. By seeking early treatment, men can alleviate discomfort, preserve testicular health, and maintain a positive outlook on their overall well-being.
Detecting Underlying Health Issues:
Varicoceles can sometimes be symptomatic of underlying health problems. In some cases, they may indicate kidney issues or even tumors that cause the enlargement of veins in the scrotum. Timely diagnosis and treatment of varicocele can lead to the identification of such conditions, allowing for prompt medical intervention. This ensures that any potential health concerns are addressed early on, leading to better outcomes and improved overall health.
Psychological Impact:
The psychological well-being of men should not be overlooked when considering the importance of understanding and treating varicocele disease. Dealing with infertility issues or persistent scrotal discomfort can lead to stress, anxiety, and emotional distress. By seeking appropriate treatment, men can not only address their physical symptoms but also manage their emotional health and achieve a better quality of life.
Non-invasive Treatment Options:
The good news is that varicoceles can often can be treated with non-invasive or minimally invasive procedures. Surgical procedures like varicocelectomy, high ligation and low ligations has a very high failure rate.
3-D precision guided varicocele embolization is safe and effective methods to alleviate symptoms, improve fertility, and enhance testicular health. Varicocele Embolization is a preferred treatment over surgery I’m all age groups.
Dr. Imtiaz Ahmed is the pioneer of percutaneous embolization varicocele treatment in Pakistan. It is an outpatient procedure performed under local anesthesia. In this, a thin catheter is inserted into the affected veins using real-time imaging, and an FDA-approved embolic material is then injected to close the abnormal veins and side branches feeding these abnormal veins in a single sitting. There are numerous advantages of this procedure, such as a quick recovery time of 2-3 hours, a high success rate, and no complications.
Family Planning:
For couples planning to start a family, understanding varicocele and its impact on fertility is essential. Early detection and treatment can significantly improve the chances of natural conception or assistive reproductive technologies like in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intrauterine insemination (IUI). By addressing varicocele, men can actively participate in family planning and work towards building a fulfilling family life.
Dr. Imtiaz Ahmad, an Endovascular Surgical and Interventional Radiology Specialist, is the best varicocele doctor in Pakistan due to his extensive experience and minimally invasive treatment approach. He has helped many couples achieve their dream of starting a family. He is also an expert in dealing with female reproductive issues.
For further information regarding varicocele embolization in Pakistan, please feel free to call us whatsapp 03302963300, 03312597322 or email us at info@drimtiazahmad.com. Follow us on Instagram @Profdr_imtiaz_ahmad for more details and daily updates.
Medical advancements in recent years have opened up a new era of hope and possibility for individuals struggling with various health conditions. Among these groundbreaking treatments, 3-D precision-guided varicocele treatment has emerged as a game-changer in addressing male infertility caused by varicocele. Beyond the physical benefits, this innovative procedure is now shedding light on the profound emotional and psychological impact it has on patients and their quality of life.
Understanding Varicocele and its Emotional Toll:
Varicoceles are enlarged veins that develop in the scrotum, leading to impaired blood flow and increased temperature in the testicles. Consequently, sperm production and survival are affected, making it one of the leading causes of male infertility, affecting up to 15% of all men. Beyond the physical implications, the psychological effects of infertility can be immense, often leading to feelings of inadequacy, shame, and guilt, especially in societies that place a strong emphasis on traditional family structures.
The Emotional Rollercoaster of Seeking Treatment:
For many men with varicocele, the journey to diagnosis and treatment can be a rollercoaster of emotions. The struggle to conceive can be disheartening, and the uncertainty of the future can leave patients feeling vulnerable and anxious. Feelings of isolation and frustration may intensify as they witness peers starting families effortlessly.
How Minimally Invasive Varicocele Treatment Work
Percutaneous Embolization is a minimally invasive 3D precision-guided varicocele treatment in Pakistan, first introduced by Dr. Imtiaz Ahmed. In this procedure, a thin catheter is guided into the affected veins(Varicocele)into using real-time 3-D imaging. Through the catheter, the doctor injects embolic materials to block or close off the abnormal veins and side branches, redirecting blood flow, and completely blocking the varicocele.FDA approved special medication is used only authorized to be used by highly trained and licensed physicians in USA to block these abnormal veins(varicocele) and no abnormal foreign bodies or metallic coils are deployed within the abnormal veins(Varicocele)..
This outpatient procedure is performed under local anesthesia and offers numerous advantages when compared with traditional surgery. The recovery time is 2 to 3 hours, and the patient is expected to resume his daily life activities the same day. Also, the high success rate of this procedure allows the patient to father a child in a short period of time, unless there is some other abnormality present.
The Psychological Impact of Successful Treatment
Restored hope and confidence:
The successful treatment of varicoceles through 3-D precision-guided procedures can be a life-changing event. As the patient’s fertility improves, so does their hope for starting or expanding a family. The burden of infertility begins to lift, and they regain a sense of control over their life and future.
Strengthened relationships:
Infertility can place significant strain on relationships. The emotional toll of unsuccessful attempts to conceive can lead to increased tension and diminished intimacy between partners. However, successful treatment can help renew the emotional connection, leading to a stronger bond between partners as they embark on the journey of parenthood together.
Enhanced emotional well-being:
The emotional well-being of individuals with varicoceles can significantly improve after successful treatment. The weight of infertility-related stress starts to ease, and feelings of depression and anxiety often subside. Consequently, they may experience an increase in overall life satisfaction and a positive outlook on their future.
Improved self-esteem:
Infertility can erode an individual’s self-esteem, especially when societal norms place great importance on procreation. Successful treatment can reverse these negative emotions and reinforce a sense of self-worth, as the patient perceives themselves as capable of overcoming challenges and embracing their identity beyond their reproductive capabilities.
Better social functioning:
Infertility can lead to social withdrawal, as individuals may find it challenging to engage in conversations or gatherings that often revolve around family planning and children. The success of 3-D precision-guided varicocele treatment enables patients to feel more at ease in social settings and encourages them to embrace their role as parents, even before conception occurs.
The varicocele treatment cost in Pakistan varies depending on the type of treatment options. The majority of healthcare systems in Pakistan often ignore this aspect of male infertility, and if they do provide treatment, it is usually through conventional surgical procedures which has significant high failure rates.
Dr. Imtiaz Ahmed, an expert interventional radiologist and endovascular surgeon, has emphasized the treatment of the most common cause of infertility in males through a minimally invasive approach. He also specializes in other causes of infertility in males and females.
For further information regarding varicocele treatment in Pakistan, please feel free to email us at info@drimtiazahmad.com. Follow us on Instagram @Profdr_imtiaz_ahmad for more information and daily updates.
