Uterine Fibroid Embolization

Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat uterine fibroids by reducing their blood supply. During the procedure, a specially trained physician blocks the small arteries that feed the fibroids, causing them to shrink over time. This can help relieve symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, pressure, and bloating.

UFE does not require surgery or removal of the uterus, and most patients return home the same day or after a short hospital stay. Many people choose UFE because it offers effective symptom relief with a shorter recovery time compared to surgical options.

Fibroids are noncancerous growths that develop in or on the uterus. They are very common and can vary in size, number, and location. Some fibroids are small and cause no symptoms, while others can grow large enough to cause discomfort or interfere with daily life.

Depending on their size and location, fibroids may cause heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain or pressure, frequent urination, or discomfort during intercourse. Many people with fibroids are unaware they have them until they are found during a routine exam or imaging study.

Symptoms of uterine fibroids can vary widely depending on their size, number, and location. Some people have fibroids and experience little to no symptoms, while others may notice significant changes that affect daily life.

Common symptoms of fibroids include heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain or pressure, bloating, frequent urination, constipation, and discomfort during sexual intercourse. Fibroids can also cause lower back pain or feelings of fullness in the abdomen. If symptoms are interfering with your quality of life, treatment options such as Uterine Fibroid Embolization may be worth discussing with your care team.

Fibroids are often diagnosed during a pelvic exam or through imaging studies ordered by a healthcare provider. In many cases, fibroids are first suspected when symptoms such as heavy bleeding or pelvic pressure are discussed during a routine visit.

Imaging tests like ultrasound or MRI are commonly used to confirm the presence of fibroids and to better understand their size, number, and location. These details are important when determining which treatment options may be appropriate, including whether a patient may be a candidate for Uterine Fibroid Embolization.

Uterine fibroids are very common and can affect people at different stages of life, most often during the reproductive years. While the exact cause of fibroids is not fully understood, certain factors may increase the likelihood of developing them.

Risk factors include a family history of fibroids, hormonal influences, and age. Fibroids tend to grow during times when estrogen levels are higher and may shrink after menopause. Having fibroids does not mean treatment is always necessary, but understanding risk factors can help patients recognize symptoms and seek evaluation when needed.

Uterine Fibroid Embolization is a minimally invasive procedure performed by one of our fellowship-trained interventional radiologists. It typically begins with a small incision, often in the wrist or groin, where a thin catheter is guided into the blood vessels that supply the uterus. Tiny particles are then released to block blood flow to the fibroids, causing them to shrink over time.

The procedure usually takes one to two hours. Patients typically receive sedation and pain control, and most are comfortable throughout the procedure. Because UFE does not involve surgery or large incisions, recovery is generally quicker than with many surgical treatment options.

During a Uterine Fibroid Embolization, we strive to make our patients feel as relaxed and comfortable as possible with light sedation and pain management throughout the procedure. You may feel some pressure at the catheter insertion site, but significant discomfort during the procedure itself is uncommon.

After the procedure, it is normal to experience cramping or pelvic pain as the fibroids begin to lose their blood supply. This discomfort is expected and is treated with medications to keep you comfortable. Many patients report that pain improves significantly within the first few days as the body begins to heal.

Uterine Fibroid Embolization is designed to provide long-term relief from fibroid symptoms by shrinking the treated fibroids. Most patients experience lasting improvement in symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and pressure.

While it is uncommon for treated fibroids to regrow, symptoms can recur in some patients over time. If symptoms return, they are often less severe and may be managed with follow-up care or additional treatment options if needed. Your physician will discuss what to expect based on your individual situation.

After a Uterine Fibroid Embolization, recovery begins right away as your body responds to the reduced blood supply to the fibroids. It is common to experience cramping, pelvic discomfort, fatigue, or flu-like symptoms during the first few days. These symptoms are expected and are managed with medications and rest.

Most patients gradually feel better over the first one to two weeks. As the fibroids shrink over time, symptoms such as heavy bleeding and pelvic pressure often improve. Follow-up appointments and imaging may be scheduled to monitor progress and ensure the treatment is working as expected.

Uterine Fibroid Embolization has a strong track record of success in reducing fibroid-related symptoms. Most patients experience significant improvement in heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, pressure, and bulk-related symptoms following the procedure.

While results can vary from person to person, many patients report meaningful symptom relief within a few months as the fibroids gradually shrink. UFE has been performed for many years and is considered an effective, minimally invasive treatment option for appropriately selected patients.

After a Uterine Fibroid Embolization, the blood supply to the fibroids is intentionally reduced. Without adequate blood flow, the fibroids begin to shrink and become inactive over time. This process helps relieve symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, pressure, and bloating.

Fibroids do not disappear immediately. Instead, they gradually decrease in size over several months following the procedure. As the fibroids shrink, many patients notice steady improvement in their symptoms. Follow-up imaging may be performed to assess how the fibroids are responding to treatment and to guide ongoing care.

Most patients continue to have menstrual periods after Uterine Fibroid Embolization. In many cases, periods become lighter and more manageable as fibroids shrink and symptoms improve.

Temporary changes in menstrual cycles can occur, especially in the months following the procedure. In rare cases, particularly in patients closer to menopause, periods may stop altogether. Your care team will discuss how UFE may affect your menstrual cycle based on your age and overall health.

Follow-up care after a Uterine Fibroid Embolization is an important part of the treatment process. Patients typically have follow-up appointments to assess symptom improvement and ensure proper healing. Imaging studies, such as MRI or ultrasound, may be used to evaluate how the fibroids are responding to treatment.

Your care team will also review pain management, activity levels, and any ongoing symptoms during follow-up visits. This continued monitoring helps ensure the best possible outcome and allows adjustments to care if needed.

Coordination of care with your OB/GYN is an important part of the Uterine Fibroid Embolization process. Communication between specialists helps ensure that all aspects of your care are aligned and that treatment decisions support your overall health.

Your imaging results, treatment plan, and follow-up information can be shared with your OB/GYN so they remain informed and involved. This collaborative approach helps provide continuity of care before and after the procedure.

Many insurance plans cover Uterine Fibroid Embolization when it is considered medically appropriate. Coverage can vary based on individual plans and providers, so it is important to confirm benefits ahead of time.

Your care team can assist with insurance verification and help answer questions related to coverage and authorization. This support helps patients understand their benefits before moving forward with treatment.

As with any medical procedure, Uterine Fibroid Embolization carries some risks, although serious complications are uncommon. Common short-term side effects can include cramping, pelvic pain, fatigue, nausea, low-grade fever, and discomfort at the catheter insertion site. These symptoms are often temporary and can be managed with medication and rest.

Less common complications may include infection, an allergic reaction to contrast dye, or injury to a blood vessel. In rare cases, there may be effects on ovarian function, especially in patients closer to menopause. Your physician will review your health history and imaging and discuss risks and benefits in detail before treatment.

In Uterine Fibroid Embolization, the choice of embolization particles is an important part of the procedure. Some physicians prefer Embosphere Microspheres because they are designed to be uniform in size, which can support consistent delivery and predictable blockage of the small vessels feeding fibroids.

The best choice of particles depends on the physician’s technique and the patient’s anatomy and treatment plan. Your doctor can explain which embolization material will be used in your procedure and why it is appropriate for your specific case.

Uterine Fibroid Embolization can often be used to treat multiple fibroids at the same time, as well as many larger fibroids. Because the procedure targets the blood supply feeding the fibroids rather than removing them individually, it can be effective for a wide range of fibroid sizes and numbers.

Whether UFE is appropriate depends on factors such as fibroid location, uterine size, symptoms, and overall health. Imaging studies are used to determine candidacy, and your physician will review your results to help decide if UFE is a good option for you.