As you prepare for Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) , prioritizing your overall well-being—physically, mentally, and emotionally—can become a priority. Whether you’re in the planning stages or have already decided to undergo UFE, incorporating a plan of balanced nutrition and regular exercise can play a pivotal role in optimizing your health pre-treatment and aiding in a smoother post-treatment recovery.
If you are considering UFE or have it scheduled, here are some essential preparation and post-treatment tips to help maintain a healthy and balanced lifestyle.
Pre-UFE Exercise Tips
Although receiving medical treatment can be a nerve-wracking experience, preparing for UFE isn’t a complicated process. The main focus should be on managing fibroid symptoms. One of the best UFE preparation tips is incorporating a balanced diet and daily exercise into your routine.
Regular exercise not only aids in symptom management while waiting for treatment but also helps with hormonal balance, alleviating back and pelvic pain, and releasing endorphins for a positive mental state. Effective pre-UFE exercise can include a combination of cardio, stretching, and light strength training.
Here are some of the best exercises for managing fibroid symptoms and UFE preparation:
- Cardiovascular activities: For managing fibroid symptoms, the best exercise to focus on is cardio, such as walking, cycling, and swimming. These exercises are ideal as they lead to a healthy lifestyle that can help manage symptoms and not place too much stress on your abdomen.
- Stretching: Incorporating a daily stretching routine into your exercise regimen keeps you flexible and alleviates tension. When stretching, be cautious of any core-heavy stretches and exercises such as sit-ups and hip stretches, especially if you are experiencing symptom flare-ups related to fibroids. These flare-ups might include increased pelvic pain, lower back discomfort, and abdominal bloating or pressure. Opting for stretches focusing on relaxation and flexibility rather than deep core engagement can help avoid exacerbating these symptoms.
- Strength Training: Heavy lifting is typically discouraged, but light strength training with hand-held weights or exercises such as push-ups or planks works well. These exercises avoid blood flow to the abdomen that could cause fibroids to grow.
Exercise is excellent for managing fibroid symptoms. It improves sleeping habits and maintains a healthy weight, reducing the risk of flare-ups.
Pre-UFE Nutrition Tips
Adopting a nutrient-rich diet can further contribute to symptom control. Consuming leafy greens like spinach and lettuce can offer anti-inflammatory benefits. At the same time, fruits loaded with antioxidants, like pineapples and blueberries, support overall nutrition and may aid in managing fibroid symptoms before UFE. It’s equally important to be aware of foods that could trigger fibroid flare-ups. Red meat, alcohol, and highly processed foods are known to worsen symptoms potentially and should be consumed with caution or avoided when preparing for UFE.
These pre-UFE nutrition and exercise tips help prepare your body for the upcoming procedure while proactively managing fibroid symptoms.
Post-UFE Exercise Tips
1. Take It Slow
- Rest is essential in the first few days after UFE. Avoid any physical activity beyond light walking during this time.
- Gradually reintroduce activity as recommended by your doctor, typically starting with gentle exercises after one to two weeks.
2. Focus on Light, Low-Impact Activities
- Begin with activities like:
- Walking
- Stretching
- Light yoga (avoid deep twists or inversions initially)
- Swimming (only after your incision is fully healed and cleared by your doctor)
3. Avoid High-Intensity Workouts Initially
- Avoid running, heavy lifting, or high-impact exercises like aerobics for the first 4-6 weeks, or as directed by your healthcare provider.
- These activities can strain your body during the healing process.
4. Listen to Your Body
- Pay attention to signs of discomfort, pain, or fatigue. If an activity causes cramping or discomfort, stop immediately and consult your doctor if it persists.
5. Strengthen Gradually
- After a few weeks, you can incorporate low-resistance strength training or Pilates, focusing on core stability and light weights.
- Avoid exercises that directly stress the pelvic area until fully recovered.
6. Prioritize Pelvic Floor Exercises
- Gentle pelvic floor strengthening exercises, such as Kegels, can help promote healing and improve overall pelvic health.
7. Stay Hydrated and Nourished
- Exercise can cause dehydration, so drink plenty of water to support your body’s recovery.
- Eat a balanced diet rich in nutrients to aid healing and energy levels.
8. Get Medical Clearance Before Resuming Intense Activity
- Your doctor should approve when it’s safe to return to your full exercise routine.
Post-UFE Nutrition Tips
Eating the right foods after UFE can support healing, boost energy, and promote overall well-being. Here are some key nutritional tips:
1. Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water to help flush out toxins and keep your body hydrated, especially if you experience post-procedure nausea or discomfort. Herbal teas and broths can also provide hydration with added nutrients.
2. Focus on Anti-Inflammatory Foods
Include foods rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties to reduce inflammation and promote healing: fruits like berries, oranges, and apples; vegetables like spinach, kale, broccoli, and sweet potatoes; healthy fats like avocado, nuts, seeds, and olive oil; and omega-3 sources such as salmon, mackerel, walnuts, and flaxseeds.
3. Eat Fiber-Rich Foods
Fiber helps prevent constipation, a common side effect after UFE due to pain medications or reduced mobility. Great sources include whole grains, legumes, beans, oats, and fresh fruits and vegetables.
4. Prioritize Iron-Rich Foods
If you experienced heavy bleeding before UFE, your iron levels might be low. Include iron-rich foods like lean red meat, chicken, turkey, fish, lentils, chickpeas, tofu, spinach, and fortified cereals. Pair these with Vitamin C for better absorption.
5. Include Vitamin C
Vitamin C supports the immune system and boosts collagen production for tissue repair. Great sources include citrus fruits, strawberries, bell peppers, and tomatoes.
6. Avoid Processed and Sugary Foods
Limit processed snacks, refined sugars, and fried foods as they can increase inflammation and delay healing.
7. Consult Your Doctor for Personalized Advice
If you have specific dietary restrictions or medical conditions, seek advice tailored to your individual needs.
Why Choose UFE?
Uterine Fibroid Embolization stands out as the preferred option as a safe treatment for symptomatic fibroids. UFE is endorsed by the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology and has gained recognition as a well-established and reliable alternative to surgery. According to the National Institute of Health, UFE effectively addresses symptoms in up to 92% of patients. This high success rate attests to the efficacy of UFE in relieving fibroid-related challenges.
Besides its efficacy, UFE is distinguished by its minimally invasive approach, allowing patients to return home the same day as their procedure, often with little to no visible sign of treatment.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Learn more about the benefits of UFE surgery by consulting one of our fibroid specialists. Please schedule your appointment by either calling 855.615.2555 or through our online form.
