What to Expect During Uterine Fibroid Embolization?

Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) is a cutting-edge, minimally invasive procedure designed to treat uterine fibroids—non-cancerous growths on the uterus. Unlike traditional surgeries, UFE requires only local anesthesia and is performed in an outpatient setting, allowing patients to return home the same day.

What is Uterine Fibroid Embolization?

UFE is a low-risk, effective alternative to surgery for women struggling with fibroid symptoms, including:

• Heavy and irregular menstrual cycles
• Severe cramping
• Lower abdominal pain and pressure
• Constipation and bloating
• Frequent urination or difficulty emptying the bladder

This minimally invasive procedure is especially beneficial for perimenopausal women as it does not trigger early menopause. Unlike hysterectomy, UFE also preserves the uterus, making it an excellent choice for women who wish to maintain fertility. Patients often notice symptom relief shortly after the procedure, with fibroids shrinking significantly over the next six months.

Preparing for UFE: What to Do Before the Procedure

Before your UFE procedure, your doctor will develop a comprehensive treatment plan and happily answer any questions you have. Following these important pre-procedure steps will help ensure the best possible results for your UFE journey.

1. Consultation with Your Doctor

Your first step in preparing for UFE is a consultation with a fibroid specialist. During this appointment, you’ll:

• Discuss your medical history and determine if UFE is the best treatment for you.
• Go over the procedure details, potential risks, and expected outcomes.
• Receive instructions on medication adjustments, fasting, and post-procedure care.
• Have the opportunity to ask questions and address any concerns.

2. Pre-Procedure Medical Tests & Imaging

Before undergoing UFE, your doctor may order the following tests to assess your overall health and confirm that the procedure is right for you:

• Pelvic Ultrasound – Helps determine the size, number, and location of your fibroids.
• MRI Scan – Provides detailed imaging to evaluate the blood supply to the fibroids and ensure accurate treatment planning.
• Blood Tests – Checks for anemia (common with heavy menstrual bleeding), infection, and overall health status.

These tests help your physician customize your treatment and ensure a safe and effective procedure.

3. Medication Adjustments

Your doctor will provide specific instructions regarding your medications. Here’s what you need to know:

• Blood Thinners & Anticoagulants – If you take medications like aspirin or ibuprofen, your doctor may ask you to stop taking them several days before the procedure to reduce the risk of bleeding.
• Diabetes Medication – If you have diabetes, you may need to adjust your medication schedule since you’ll be fasting before the procedure.
• Allergies to Contrast Dye – If you have a known allergy to contrast agents used in X-ray imaging, inform your doctor so they can provide necessary precautions.

4. Food and Drink Guidelines

Your doctor will also provide you with instructions for fasting before the UFE procedure, and other food and drink guidelines, including: 

• Do not eat or drink anything after midnight before the procedure (your doctor may give you specific fasting instructions based on your health condition).
• Stay hydrated the day before by drinking plenty of water, but stop drinking fluids as instructed.
• Avoid alcohol and caffeine for at least 24 hours before UFE, as they can interfere with your body’s response to sedation.

What Happens During Uterine Fibroid Embolization?

UFE usually lasts between 45 and 60 minutes, and unlike traditional surgery, it does not require general anesthesia.

Step-by-Step Breakdown:

• Sedation & Local Anesthesia – You’ll receive mild sedation for relaxation and a local anesthetic at the incision site. 
• Catheter Insertion – A small incision is made in the upper thigh to insert a thin catheter into the artery.
• Real-Time Imaging – Using X-ray guidance, the catheter is carefully navigated to the uterine arteries.
• Blocking Blood Supply – Tiny particles (about the size of a grain of sand) are injected to cut off blood flow to the fibroids.
• Final Steps – The catheter is removed, and the incision is closed—no stitches required!

Recovery After UFE: What to Expect

After your procedure, the medical staff will monitor you for a period of time to check your vital signs and watch for any potential complications. Most patients are able to go home the same day and can anticipate a smooth recovery with manageable symptoms.

Managing Post-Procedure Symptoms

• Cramping & Pelvic Pain – Similar to menstrual cramps, you may experience cramping and pelvic pain the first 24–72 hours before it gradually subsides.
• When to Call Your Doctor – If severe pain lasts more than 3 days, contact your doctor immediately for a follow-up appointment. 
• Symptom Improvement – You may experience symptom relief within days, but after the procedure your fibroids will continue to shrink over the next 4 to 6 months.

Recovery Timeline

• First Week: Plan to take at least 7–10 days off work to allow your body to heal.
• Two Weeks Post-UFE: Most patients can resume normal activities within 10–14 days.
• Activity Restrictions: Avoid heavy lifting, intense exercise, and sexual activity during the initial recovery period.
• Follow-Up: Schedule a check-up 2 weeks post-procedure to monitor healing and progress.

Results and Effectiveness of UFE

UFE is a highly successful treatment, with an 85%-90% success rate in significantly reducing fibroid symptoms. Most patients report reduced heavy menstrual bleeding, less pelvic pressure, and overall symptom improvement within a few weeks to months. By cutting off the fibroid’s blood supply, UFE allows them to shrink naturally over time, providing long-term relief without major surgery. Studies also show that 93% of women experience lasting symptom relief five years after the procedure.

How Quickly Do Symptoms Improve After UFE?

• Within a few days: Lighter periods and reduced cramping.
• 1–3 months: Noticeable fibroid shrinkage and symptom relief.
• 3–6 months: Fibroids shrink significantly, and periods become more regular

How Does UFE Compare to Other Fibroid Treatments?

While there are several other treatment options for fibroids, UFE stands out due to its longevity, effectiveness, and shorter recovery times. Here’s how UFE compares to other treatments. 

• UFE vs. Myomectomy: Myomectomy has a higher fibroid recurrence rate—20% of women develop new fibroids within a few years.
•  UFE vs. Hysterectomy: Hysterectomy removes the uterus permanently, requiring a lengthy recovery and increasing the risk of complications. 

By choosing UFE, patients avoid major surgery while still getting lasting relief from fibroids.

Schedule an Appointment for UFE with AFC

If you are considering UFE for long-term fibroid relief, our expert team at American Fibroid Centers is here to guide you every step of the way. From your initial consultation to recovery, we will help you understand what to expect during UFE, answer any questions you may have, and tailor a treatment plan to meet your needs. Schedule your appointment at one of our fibroid centers in NY and NJ, and take the first step toward a fibroid-free life today.