Your Complete UFE Journey Guide

What is UFE and how does it work?

Uterine fibroid embolization is a minimally invasive, non-surgical procedure that treats fibroids by cutting off the blood supply that keeps them alive. Without blood flow, fibroids shrink over time and symptoms improve. The procedure does not remove the uterus, does not require general anesthesia, and is performed entirely through a small incision about the size of a pencil tip.

During the procedure, an interventional radiologist uses real-time imaging to guide a thin, flexible catheter through an artery in your wrist or groin to the uterine arteries that feed your fibroids. Once in position, tiny synthetic particles called embolic agents are injected into those arteries. The particles block blood flow to the fibroids, which causes them to shrink and eventually be reabsorbed by the body. The procedure typically takes about 30 minutes, though the total clinic visit runs closer to 3 to 4 hours when you include preparation and recovery time before discharge.

UFE has been performed successfully for over 20 years and is recognized as safe and effective by the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG). Clinical studies show a success rate of approximately 95%, and over 90% of women report satisfaction with their results.

Are you a candidate for UFE?

UFE is not the right fit for every woman, which is why a consultation and imaging evaluation always come before any treatment decision. That said, many women with symptomatic uterine fibroids are good candidates, particularly those who want to avoid surgery or preserve their uterus.

You may be a strong candidate for UFE if you:

• Have been diagnosed with symptomatic uterine fibroids
• Experience heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, pressure, frequent urination, or bloating
• Want to avoid a hysterectomy or myomectomy
• Wish to preserve your uterus and keep your fertility options open
• Prefer a non-surgical, outpatient procedure with a shorter recovery period

During your consultation, your fibroid specialist will review imaging to assess the size, number, and location of your fibroids, perform a physical examination, and discuss your symptoms and treatment goals before making any recommendation. The evaluation is thorough and individualized. There is no one-size-fits-all answer.

Before your procedure: how to prepare

Your doctor will give you specific pre-procedure instructions based on your health history and medications. In general, most patients are asked to avoid blood-thinning medications such as aspirin or ibuprofen for at least 24 hours before the procedure, avoid eating solid foods after midnight the night before, and drink only clear liquids up to 3 hours before their appointment. Plan to arrive at the clinic about 15 minutes early so that check-in paperwork can be completed before your procedure begins.

On the morning of your procedure, shower without applying lotions or strong perfumes. Remove all jewelry, piercings, and contact lenses before leaving home. Wear loose, comfortable clothing. Most importantly, arrange for someone to drive you home ahead of time. You will be sedated during the procedure and cannot drive yourself afterward. Bring your photo ID, insurance card, and a current list of medications.

Many women find it helpful to bring a trusted friend or family member, both for the ride home and for the reassurance of having support nearby. If questions come up in the days before your appointment, contact your care team. No question is too small when it comes to feeling prepared.

The day of your procedure: what to expect

When you arrive, you’ll complete standard check-in paperwork before being escorted to the procedure room. You’ll change into a hospital gown and an IV line will be placed in your arm to deliver fluids and medication. The care team will walk you through each step before anything begins, so you always know what is happening and why.

A light sedative and local anesthetic will be administered to keep you comfortable and relaxed. You remain awake throughout the procedure but in a deeply sedated state. Most women feel little to nothing during treatment. General anesthesia is not required, which is one of the reasons UFE carries a lower risk profile than surgical alternatives.

The procedure takes approximately 30 minutes. Once it is complete, you’ll be moved to a recovery area and monitored for a few hours. Staff will manage any discomfort and confirm you are stable before discharge. Most women go home the same day, typically within a few hours of completing the procedure.

There are no stitches. The incision site requires only a small bandage, and you can shower the same day you return home.

Recovery: the first two weeks

The first few days after UFE are when most women experience the most discomfort. Mild pelvic cramping is the most common symptom and is typically manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Some women also experience a low-grade fever, mild nausea, or light vaginal spotting in the first day or two. These are normal responses and usually resolve on their own. If your doctor prescribes pain medication, take it as directed. Many women find they do not need prescription medication past the first 24 to 48 hours.

Rest is important in these early days. Avoid strenuous activity, heavy lifting, and high-impact exercise for at least the first one to two weeks. Light walking is not only permitted but encouraged. It promotes circulation and supports healing. Most women with desk jobs are back to work within one to two weeks. If your job involves physical labor, discuss a return-to-work timeline with your doctor based on your specific duties and how you are feeling.

If you had heavy menstrual bleeding before UFE, you may skip one or two periods after your procedure. When your cycle returns, most women notice that periods are significantly lighter, shorter, and more regular than before. For many, that change alone is one of the most meaningful improvements they experience after treatment.

Months 1 through 3: when improvements become clear

For most women, the first three months after UFE bring the most noticeable changes. Fibroids continue to shrink during this period as the body reabsorbs treated tissue, and symptoms that may have disrupted daily life for years often improve significantly or resolve entirely.

Heavy menstrual bleeding is typically one of the first things to improve. Pelvic pain and pressure, frequent urination, abdominal bloating, and discomfort during intercourse usually follow as the fibroids continue to shrink. Energy levels often rebound substantially, particularly in women who had been managing anemia related to chronic blood loss. The fatigue that comes with months or years of heavy periods is real, and its resolution is something many women describe as transformative.

Every woman heals at her own pace. While many see significant improvement by the six to eight week mark, others may need a full 12 weeks or slightly longer to experience their best results. Follow your doctor’s guidance on activity, follow-up appointments, and any imaging that may be recommended to assess fibroid shrinkage.

Long-term results: what UFE can and cannot do

UFE delivers lasting results for the majority of women who undergo the procedure. Treated fibroids do not typically regrow, because the embolic material permanently blocks the blood supply that kept them alive. Most women enjoy sustained symptom relief for years, and many experience long-term freedom from fibroid-related symptoms.

It is important to understand that new fibroids can develop after UFE, although this is uncommon. UFE treats existing fibroids, not the underlying hormonal environment that allowed them to grow. Women who are earlier in their reproductive years may have a higher likelihood of developing new fibroids over time, which is something your doctor will discuss with you during your consultation.

Because UFE preserves the uterus, women who want to pursue pregnancy after treatment can do so. Many women have had successful pregnancies after UFE. If fertility is a priority, discuss your goals openly with your doctor so they can factor that into your care plan from the start.