If you’re searching for a non-surgical solution to treat fibroids, you may be a good candidate for uterine fibroid embolization (UFE). UFE is a minimally invasive treatment that relieves fibroid symptoms without the need for surgery, general anesthesia, or a hospital stay. It’s ideal for women who want to preserve their uterus, experience a quicker recovery, and avoid the risks of surgical fibroid removal.
How Does Uterine Fibroid Embolization Work?
Uterine fibroid embolization, or UFE, blocks the fibroid’s blood supply so that it shrinks over time. This outpatient procedure, performed by an interventional radiologist, utilizes advanced imaging techniques, including ultrasounds and MRIs, to precisely target the fibroids. Since UFE requires only a small incision, most patients can go home the same day and recover more quickly than with surgical options.
Who Qualifies for Uterine Fibroid Embolization?
Most women living with uterine fibroids are good candidates for uterine fibroid embolization, especially if:
- You experience fibroid symptoms like heavy periods, pelvic pain, or pressure
- You prefer to avoid surgery and preserve your uterus
- You are considering pregnancy in the future
- You do not have a history of pelvic infections or certain reproductive health issues
- You want to have a shorter recovery time
UFE is also not performed during pregnancy, so patients will need to wait until after delivery to pursue treatment.
The best way to determine if UFE is right for you is by consulting a fibroid specialist. You can discuss your health goals, such as focusing on fertility preservation, pain relief, or avoiding surgery, so that the fibroid specialist can help you decide if uterine fibroid embolization is best for you.
SPEAK WITH A FIBROID SPECIALIST
Benefits of Fibroid Removal Without Surgery
Uterine fibroid embolization helps you relieve fibroid symptoms while avoiding the risks of surgery.
These benefits include:
- Uterus preservation
- Faster recovery compared to surgical alternatives
- Minimal downtime
- Long-lasting relief from heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, pressure, and frequent urination
What to Expect During the UFE Procedure
UFE is an outpatient procedure that typically takes 30–45 minutes:
- Advanced imaging is used to guide a small catheter to the uterine artery
- Tiny embolic particles are injected to block blood flow to the fibroids
- The fibroids shrink over time, providing symptom relief without surgery
Uterine Fibroid Embolization Recovery Time
The typical recovery time after uterine fibroid embolization usually takes one to two weeks. As you recover, you may experience mild cramping, fatigue, or nausea for a few days. However, these symptoms are typically managed with over-the-counter medications or mild prescription pain relief.
Find Out if UFE Is Right for You
Most people are good candidates for the UFE procedure, especially if they want to preserve fertility or are looking for alternatives to surgery.
At USA Fibroid Centers, our expert interventional radiologists can work with you to determine if uterine fibroid embolization is the best option for you. You can receive treatment without a hospital stay at our convenient nationwide outpatient centers.
FAQs About Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)
How do I Prepare for the UFE Procedure?
Before your procedure, your interventional radiologist will review your medications, health history, and may order blood work. Please inform us of any allergies or signs of illness prior to your appointment.
Does UFE Affect Fertility?
UFE is considered the best fibroid treatment for preserving the uterus and fertility. If you want to get pregnant after fibroid treatment, talk to a fibroid specialist about the benefits and risks of procedures like uterine fibroid embolization.
Can I Return to Work After UFE?
Every situation is different, but it’s best to plan for at least a week or two off from work to allow your body to recover fully, depending on the nature of your job and how you respond to treatment.
How Effective is Embolization for Fibroids?
Studies consistently report that uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) has a high success rate of up to 95%, with most women experiencing significant symptom relief (especially for heavy bleeding and pelvic pain) within a few weeks to months. Most women remain symptom-free long-term after treatment, and while fibroid regrowth can occur, it’s rare and typically mild when it does.