Sex After UFE Procedure: How Does Uterine Fibroid Embolization Affect Your Sex Life?
Let’s face it: When it comes to having a healthy sex life, uterine fibroids can really get in the way. As you may already know, fibroids are a type of non-cancerous growth that can occur in or on the uterus. They are extremely common, affecting up to 70% of women in the U.S. Although not all individuals with fibroids suffer from their effects, common symptoms like heavy periods, severe cramps, frequent urination, fatigue, and painful sex can affect libido and many other areas of your life.
If you experience pain or symptoms from fibroids that affect your sex life, we encourage you to talk openly with your partner and your doctor about what is going on. When fibroids begin to impact relationships, career, self-esteem, or sexual intimacy, treatment is usually recommended. If you’ve been avoiding the doctor because you fear fibroid surgery, we want you to know that a hysterectomy, the complete surgical removal of the uterus, is only one of a range of available treatment options.
Many of our patients ask about sex after fibroid embolization. If you are considering UFE treatment, we’ve provided information below to help you make your decision, or you can talk with a fibroid specialist to get your questions answered.
Sex After UFE
Uterine Fibroid Embolization offers a range of potential benefits, some of which may positively impact your sex life. After UFE, you may experience:
- Lighter periods
- Regular menstrual cycles
- Less severe cramps, if any
- Normal urination
- More energy
- Less pain during sex, if any
One research study indicates that the vast majority of women experience improved sex after Uterine Fibroid Embolization. One year after treatment, nearly 80% of survey participants reported improved sexual function in the areas of pain, desire, arousal, and satisfaction.
UFE may help improve a person’s overall quality of life, including their sexual well-being, by reducing pain and discomfort associated with fibroids.
How Long After UFE Should You Wait To Have Sex?
In the days following Uterine Fibroid Embolization, we recommend avoiding sex and allowing your body the time it needs to heal. Most women can return to normal daily activities, including sex, within one to two weeks.
Keep in mind that because UFE recovery can vary, we always recommend asking your fibroid specialist for personalized recommendations on when sex may be safe for you. We also suggest paying close attention to your body and communicating openly with your partner to ensure comfort and enjoyment during sex.
Can You Become Pregnant After UFE?
Many women are able to get pregnant after Uterine Fibroid Embolization. A study from RSNA determined that UFE is a safe, effective treatment option for women who want to conceive. The study also showed that 41% of women got pregnant within one year of the study.
In some cases, UFE can help restore fertility to women having difficulty conceiving due to uterine fibroids. We have had multiple patients report successful pregnancies after having UFE at one of our centers.
Due to potential risks, your doctor may recommend waiting at least six months after UFE before attempting to get pregnant.
“Fibroids can sometimes cause fertility issues and even complications during pregnancy or childbirth,” said Dr. Shiloh. “We advise patients who suffer from fibroids or suspect they do, to get screened and consider treatment before getting pregnant.”
Schedule a UFE Consultation With USA Fibroid Centers Today
If you have additional questions about sex after Uterine Fibroid Embolization, we recommend visiting one of our compassionate and experienced fibroid specialists at USA Fibroid Centers. Although we understand that discussing your sex life can feel somewhat awkward, we encourage you to share what is going on so that we can help.
In dozens of locations nationwide, our leading experts are available to evaluate your fibroid symptoms, discuss sex after UFE, and make personalized treatment recommendations when necessary. If you are interested in learning more about sex after embolization, request a consultation today.
No matter where you choose to visit us, we look forward to helping you take back control of your life.
