Adenomyosis is a common and often underdiagnosed condition that occurs when endometrial tissue—the same tissue that lines the uterus— grows into the uterus. This can lead to symptoms that closely resemble fibroids, including severe cramping, painful intercourse, and abdominal pressure. Over time, adenomyosis can cause the uterus to enlarge, intensifying discomfort and affecting quality of life.
While adenomyosis can be challenging to diagnose and treat, understanding your treatment options is the first step toward relief. At USA Fibroid Centers, our experienced interventional radiologists offer a nonsurgical solution: uterine artery embolization (UAE). This minimally invasive procedure for adenomyosis works by reducing blood flow to the affected areas of the uterus, providing effective symptom relief.
If you’ve been told you have adenomyosis—or suspect you might—UAE may be a safe and effective alternative to hysterectomy or other invasive treatments.
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Treatment for Adenomyosis
Anenomyosis can be managed through a range of treatments, including surgical and non-surgical options. When evaluating these choices, it’s wise to consider your long-term health goals, especially if preserving your fertility is a priority.
Common types of treatment for adenomyosis include:
- Anti-inflammatory medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen can ease pain but do not address the underlying cause of adenomyosis.
- Hormone therapy: Birth control pills or hormone-releasing IUDs may help reduce heavy menstrual bleeding, but focus on symptom relief rather than eliminating the condition.
- Hysterectomy: This surgical procedure has been the standard practice for treatment and involves removing the uterus, providing a permanent solution. However, it eliminates the ability to get pregnant and comes with risks associated with major surgery, including a typical recovery period of six to eight weeks.
- Uterine artery embolization (UAE): Originally developed for fibroids, UAE (typically referred to as uterine fibroid embolization or UFE) has been shown to be effective in treating adenomyosis. This non-surgical treatment for adenomyosis reduces symptoms without removing the uterus.
Choosing uterine artery embolization for adenomyosis has a shorter recovery time compared to surgery, without the need for a hospital stay, making it a convenient and cost-effective option for many women.
How is UAE Used for Adenomyosis Treatment?
UAE for adenomyosis works by blocking the blood vessels that supply oxygen and nutrients to the areas of the uterus affected by adenomyosis. This disrupts the blood flow to the disease tissue, causing it to shrink, and reducing inflammation and pain over time.
Although traditionally used to treat fibroids, uterine artery embolization (UAE) has also been shown to effectively relieve symptoms of adenomyosis, which can be classified as diffuse or focal. This minimally invasive procedure is performed by an interventional radiologist using image-guided technology to block the blood supply to affected areas of the uterus.
By reducing abnormal bleeding and shrinking the adenomyosis tissue, UAE offers significant symptom relief, without surgery or hospital stays, while preserving the uterus and supporting future fertility.
How Effective is Uterine Artery Embolization for Adenomyosis?
Uterine Artery Embolization is a successful, minimally invasive way to treat adenomyosis. It works by cutting off much of the blood supply to the uterus, reducing blood flow to the adenomotic tissue. This causes the abnormal tissue to shrink, reducing the enlarged uterus by about 26-30%.¹ Because this significantly relieves uncomfortable symptoms like heavy bleeding and pain, most patients (around 88-90%) are very pleased with the outcome after this non-surgical treatment for adenomyosis.²
Does UAE Permanently Get Rid of Adenomyosis?
While UAE is considered a highly effective procedure for managing adenomyosis symptoms, it may not eliminate adenomyosis entirely. Many patients experience long-term relief from pain, heavy bleeding, and pressure after the procedure.
A consultation with a specialist is the best way to determine if UAE is the optimal path for managing your symptoms and achieving lasting relief.
Who is Eligible for Uterine Artery Embolization (UAE)?
Most individuals are eligible for uterine artery embolization for adenomyosis, although there are a few medical exceptions. UAE is not recommended for patients with an active pelvic infection, certain bleeding issues, or a diagnosis of endometrial cancer. Additionally, if you are pregnant, your doctor may recommend postponing the procedure until after delivery.
What Happens During Uterine Artery Embolization?
Procedure
During UAE, local anesthesia is administered to numb the area, and light sedation is used to help relax you. The interventional radiologist then uses an ultrasound to guide a tiny catheter into a blood vessel, typically in the wrist or groin. The catheter is carefully guided to the arteries supplying blood to the adenomyosis tissue. Next, tiny particles of embolic fluid are injected through the catheter to block blood flow. After blocking the blood flow, the tissue shrinks and eventually dies.
UAE Recovery
Most patients return home the same day. Mild cramping and spotting may occur for a few days, but these symptoms can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Uterine artery embolization for adenomyosis has a much shorter recovery time than surgical procedures, so most individuals typically return to normal activities within a week.
How Can I Prepare for Uterine Artery Embolization?
Before your procedure, your interventional radiologist will review your medications, health history, and may order blood work. Be sure to mention any allergies or signs of illness before your appointment.
The day before treatment:
- Stay well hydrated.
- Avoid eating or drinking after midnight.
- Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking any morning medications.
Schedule an Appointment With USA Fibroid Centers for Adenomyosis Treatment
If you want adenomyosis treatment without surgery, find relief by contacting USA Fibroid Centers today. Our interventional radiologists are experts in the procedure and can answer any questions about UAE for adenomyosis.
Our clinic accepts most major insurance coverage and offers flexible payment options, but if you have any questions, you can call 855.615.2555.
Sources
- Man Deuk Kim et al., “Long-Term Results of Uterine Artery Embolization for Symptomatic Adenomyosis,” American Journal of Roentgenology.
- Eisen Liang et al., “Uterine Artery Embolisation for Adenomyosis in Women Who Failed Prior Endometrial Ablation,” CVIR endovascular, July 27, 2024.