Fibroid Treatment
Fibroids Services Offered In Athens, GA
Uterine fibroids are common noncancerous growths that can cause heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pressure, and discomfort that affects daily life. At The Ashford Center in Athens, GA, our team approaches fibroid care with clinical experience and compassionate attention. We assess each patient’s symptoms, imaging results, and reproductive goals to recommend the least invasive option that can relieve symptoms and preserve uterine health when appropriate.
Many women who come to The Ashford Center are seeking alternatives to traditional surgery. Minimally invasive procedures can offer symptom relief with shorter recovery times and less disruption to work and family life. Our clinicians combine careful evaluation with clear explanations so patients can make informed choices about their care, including treatments that avoid incisions and general anesthesia when possible.
We provide personalized treatment plans for women across Athens, Georgia and surrounding communities, focusing on effective symptom control and quality of life. If you are experiencing heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, or pressure related to fibroids, The Ashford Center offers diagnostic testing, counseling on treatment options, and minimally invasive care delivered in a respectful clinical setting.
Fibroid Relief Without Incisions & Surgery
For many patients, fibroid symptoms can be managed without major surgery. Transcervical radiofrequency ablation (RFA) uses a transvaginal or transcervical approach to apply controlled thermal energy directly to fibroid tissue, without skin incisions. The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis, often with local anesthesia and light sedation, allowing most patients to return home the same day. Because the treatment targets fibroids while preserving surrounding uterine tissue, recovery is typically shorter than after open surgery, and many patients experience meaningful reductions in bleeding and pain.
The Starmed System: A Minimally Invasive Solution
The Starmed system is a radiofrequency ablation technology designed for targeted treatment of uterine fibroids under imaging guidance. Using real-time ultrasound direction, the device delivers precise thermal energy to shrink fibroids and reduce associated symptoms. Clinical data and clinical experience indicate that RFA with Starmed can significantly reduce fibroid volume and improve heavy bleeding and pelvic pressure. The procedure is performed as an outpatient treatment, and because it avoids incisions and removes only the fibroid tissue, it preserves the uterus for many women who wish to maintain fertility or avoid hysterectomy. The Ashford Center evaluates candidacy for Starmed treatment during a consultation, reviewing imaging, symptoms, and individual goals to determine the best approach.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Fibroids are noncancerous growths that develop in the muscular wall of the uterus. They vary in size and number, and some cause no symptoms while others lead to heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pressure, bladder or bowel symptoms, and anemia.
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Common symptoms include heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain or pressure, frequent urination, constipation, and fatigue related to blood loss. Symptoms depend on the size, number, and location of the fibroids, and they can change over time.
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Risk factors include being of reproductive age, having a family history of fibroids, African American heritage, and certain hormonal and lifestyle factors. Fibroids are most often diagnosed in women in their 30s and 40s, although they can occur earlier.
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Starmed radiofrequency ablation is performed using a transcervical or transvaginal approach guided by ultrasound. Under local anesthesia and moderate sedation when appropriate, the physician places the device to target the fibroid, then delivers controlled thermal energy to ablate the tissue. The procedure is outpatient, and most patients go home the same day.
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Recovery after RFA is typically shorter than after major surgery, with many patients resuming normal activities within a few days to a week. The procedure preserves the uterus in most cases, but fertility outcomes can vary depending on individual factors and fibroid characteristics. If preserving fertility is a priority, The Ashford Center will discuss risks, alternatives, and timing to help you make a decision that aligns with your goals.