Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE): Effective Treatment for Symptomatic Fibroids

Uterine fibroids affect millions of women each year.

The best way to treat fibroids and their related symptoms is often through uterine fibroid embolization (UFE).

This minimally invasive outpatient procedure is a safe and effective alternative to hysterectomy or myomectomy that treats and shrinks uterine fibroids.

During the procedure, embolic agents are inserted into the wrist or groin through a catheter to block blood flow to the fibroids, causing them to lose blood supply, shrink, and completely dissipate over time.

With a success rate of over 85%, it seems like a clear choice to choose UFE over other, more invasive procedures for fibroids.

If you’ve already opted into the procedure, or you or a loved one have recently undergone UFE treatment, it is essential to know precisely how to prepare for uterine embolization recovery.

At Houston Fibroids, we are with you every step of the way. From pre-operative consultations to post-operative follow-ups and life after UFE, you can always count on our experienced and compassionate team to care for you.

Now, let’s explore uterine embolization recovery in more detail below.

What should I expect on UFE treatment day?

UFE is an outpatient fibroid treatment that will not require an overnight stay. The entire fibroid treatment usually lasts less than one hour.

UFE treatment begins with a tiny incision in the femoral or radial artery.

Using specialized X-ray equipment, a catheter is inserted into the artery and is guided to the uterine artery near the location of the fibroid tumor. Once the fibroids are reached, embolic materials are injected through the catheter into the blood flow leading to uterine fibroid tumors.

The embolic material blocks off the vessels around the fibroid, depriving it of blood and oxygen.

Once the embolization is complete, the catheter is removed, and the incision is gently closed.

While it may seem like procedure day is the most crucial aspect of a fibroid-free future, life after UFE is equally important.

Uterine Embolization Recovery

Most women experience some degree of abdominal pain or cramping (similar to menstrual cramps) shortly after this treatment for uterine fibroids.

Generally, patients receive medications for pain management.

Some patients may experience “post-embolization syndrome” following UFE, which is described as having flu-like symptoms, such as:

A low-grade fever
Abdominal discomfort
Mild nausea
Chills
Decreased energy

At the time of discharge, your doctor will provide you with pertinent information on post-UFE care.

Most women can return to light activity within a few days of UFE treatment and are usually back to work and regular activity within 7 to 10 days.

In most cases, post-UFE follow-up appointments are performed one-week post-procedure and three months post-procedure.

Effective Uterine Fibroid Treatment in Texas

If you are experiencing fibroid symptoms that are impacting your daily activities and quality of life, you should consider uterine fibroid embolization treatment right away.

Offering an effective and efficient way to treat fibroid symptoms at the source, UFE is one of the most successful ways to preserve your uterus and relieve your symptoms quickly. You don’t have to live with daily fibroid pain.

As a non-surgical fibroid treatment with little to no downtime, life after UFE is pain-free, allowing you to resume a higher quality of life and return to the things you love quickly.