Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE): What You Need to Know

You experience heavy menstrual bleeding that disrupts your daily routine or a constant pressure in your lower abdomen that makes sitting, standing, or even sleeping uncomfortable. Perhaps you’ve been dealing with unexplained leg pain, frequent urination, or a bloated abdomen that seems impossible to reduce. These symptoms might be linked to uterine fibroids—non-cancerous growths in the uterus that can impact your quality of life.

At Vein Doctor for Women, we understand how fibroids can affect every aspect of your life. That’s why we offer uterine fibroid embolization (UFE), a minimally invasive procedure that targets the root cause of your symptoms without the need for major surgery. Read on to learn everything you need to know about UFE and how it can transform your health.

What Are Uterine Fibroids?

Uterine fibroids are benign growths that develop in or around the uterus. They vary in size, number, and location, and while some women experience no symptoms, others face significant health challenges. The fibroids can exert pressure on surrounding organs and tissues, disrupting their normal function. This can lead to numerous symptoms, including:

• Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
• Pelvic pain or pressure
• Frequent urination or difficulty emptying the bladder
• Constipation
• Pain during intercourse
• Leg or back pain

What Is Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)?

UFE (uterine fibroid embolization) is a minimally invasive treatment for uterine fibroids. It works by cutting off the blood supply to the fibroids, causing them to shrink and alleviating related symptoms. The procedure involves inserting a small catheter into an artery and guiding it to the blood vessels feeding the fibroids. Tiny particles are injected to block the blood flow, effectively treating the fibroids while preserving the uterus. UFE is an excellent alternative to surgeries like hysterectomy or myomectomy, offering faster recovery times, fewer risks, and no large incisions.

Who Is a Candidate for UFE?

To determine if UFE is right for you, our physician will evaluate your medical history, perform a physical examination, and use imaging tests like an MRI or ultrasound to assess your fibroids. UFE is suitable for many women, but it’s particularly beneficial if you:

• Have symptomatic fibroids causing pain, bleeding, or pressure
• Want to avoid surgery or cannot undergo major surgery for medical reasons
• Wish to preserve your uterus

How Is the UFE Procedure Performed?

The uterine fibroid embolization procedure typically takes one to two hours and involves the following steps:

• Preparation: You’ll lie on a procedure table, and local anesthesia will be applied to minimize discomfort.
• Accessing the Artery: A tiny incision is made, usually in the groin or wrist, to insert a catheter into an artery.
• Guiding the Catheter: Using real-time imaging, the doctor guides the catheter to the uterine arteries that supply blood to the fibroids.
• Injecting Embolic Agents: Tiny particles are injected through the catheter to block blood flow to the fibroids.
• Completing the Procedure: Once the blood supply is cut off, the catheter is removed, and the incision is bandaged.

Most women can return home the same day and resume normal activities within a week. The minimally invasive nature of UFE means you’ll experience less pain and recovery time compared to traditional surgeries.

Is UFE Safe?

UFE is considered a safe and effective procedure with a high success rate. However, like any medical treatment, it carries potential risks, including:

• Mild to moderate pain or cramping after the procedure
• Post-embolization syndrome, characterized by fever, nausea, and fatigue (temporary and manageable with medication)
• Rare complications, such as infection or damage to surrounding tissues

Your doctor will provide comprehensive care and follow-up to ensure a smooth recovery. At Vein Doctor for Women, our experienced team takes every precaution to ensure your safety.

What Results Can You Expect After UFE?

Most women experience significant symptom relief within a few weeks of the UFE procedure. Benefits include:

• Reduced menstrual bleeding and pelvic pain
• Relief from urinary and bowel issues
• Improved energy levels and quality of life
• Shrinkage of fibroids over several months

While some women report mild leg pain after UFE, this is typically temporary and resolves with proper care. Long-term studies show that UFE effectively controls fibroid symptoms in 85-90% of cases, making it a reliable treatment option.

How Does UFE Compare to Other Treatments?

When evaluating treatment options, it’s essential to consider your personal health goals and preferences. Here’s how UFE compares to other common treatments:

Hysterectomy

Hysterectomy involves removing the uterus, providing a permanent solution to fibroid-related symptoms as it eliminates the possibility of recurrence. However, it is a major surgery with a recovery period of six to eight weeks, during which patients may require time off from activities. This procedure ends fertility, which may not be ideal for women who wish to have children and carries surgical risks such as infection, blood clots, and complications from anesthesia.

Myomectomy

Myomectomy is a surgical procedure that removes fibroids while preserving the uterus, making it an option for women who want to maintain fertility. However, it does not prevent new fibroids from forming, meaning additional procedures may be necessary if fibroids recur. While recovery time is shorter than a hysterectomy, it still involves several weeks of downtime. As with any surgery, there are risks of infection, scarring, or complications during the procedure.

Medication

Medications, including hormonal treatments such as GnRH agonists, can help manage fibroid symptoms by regulating hormones that influence fibroid growth. While they may temporarily reduce heavy bleeding and shrink fibroids, the effects are typically short-lived, and symptoms often return once medication is stopped. Medications are best suited as a temporary measure, such as managing symptoms while awaiting surgery or other definitive treatments, but they do not address the root cause of fibroids or provide a long-term solution.

What Should You Expect During Recovery?

You may experience mild cramping, fatigue, or nausea during the first few days, but these symptoms can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed medications. Most women return to work and daily activities within 7-10 days. Post-procedure care includes follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and imaging tests to assess fibroid shrinkage. Adhering to your doctor’s instructions ensures the best possible outcome.

Why Choose Vein Doctor for Women?

At Vein Doctor for Women, we specialize in minimally invasive treatments that address your unique health concerns. Our board-certified physicians and state-of-the-art facilities ensure you receive the highest standard of care. If you’re ready to take the first step toward addressing your fibroids, contact us to request free insurance verification or learn about our treatments. Let us help you reclaim your health and confidence with uterine fibroid embolization.