What Are the Causes of Uterine Fibroids

What is Uterine Fibroid Embolization?

Uterine Fibroid Embolization, or UFE, is an alternative to surgery for uterine fibroids. UFE is a minimally invasive-image guided procedure performed by an interventional radiologist or fibroid specialist. If you are experiencing heavy menstrual bleeding, frequent urination, pain during sexual intercourse, or pelvic pain, UFE can significantly improve or eliminate your fibroid symptoms. The American Fibroid Centers’ affiliated physicians have years of experience with UFE and have helped women live more comfortable and pain-free lives. 

UFE is a revolutionary option for women who suffer from fibroids but don’t want to undergo major surgery with an extensive recovery period. It also gives women the choice to get pregnant in the future, since the uterus remains intact. After UFE, your fibroids will shrink and your toughest symptoms can disappear. UFE has a success rate of approximately 85% and, compared with hysterectomies, the procedure has a faster recovery time, no hospital stay, and fewer complications.

Benefits of Uterine Fibroid Embolization

Uterine Fibroid Embolization offers several benefits to patients seeking alternatives to major surgery, like hysterectomy and myomectomy. UFE is a safe and effective treatment for all types of fibroids, regardless of their size, number, and location. The main benefits of UFE include:

  • Keeps the uterus intact
  • Less invasive than surgery
  • No scarring 
  • Lower risk of complications
  • Quicker recovery time
  • Significantly reduces fibroid symptoms

Candidates for Uterine Fibroid Embolization

It’s important to talk to a fibroid specialist about all of your treatment options before deciding to undergo uterine fibroid embolization. UFE is a relatively low-risk procedure and can be used for both small and large fibroids. You may be a candidate for UFE if:

  • You are experiencing painful or debilitating fibroid symptoms
  • You do not wish to undergo invasive surgery
  • You want to retain your uterus
  • You want to reduce time away from work and family
  • You wish to become pregnant in the future
  • You are perimenopausal

How to Prepare for Uterine Fibroid Embolization

Generally, there is no specific preparation needed for uterine fibroid embolization. Your doctor will discuss the procedure with you, including risks, benefits, and other options. If you decide to undergo UFE, you should do the following to ensure the best possible results:

  • Tell your doctor about any known allergies, such as anesthesia
  • Make a list of all current medications and supplements that you take
  • Note any recent illnesses or other medical conditions
  • Do not eat or drink anything 6 to 8 hours before the procedure
  • Arrange for someone to drive you home
Request A Consultation

Request a consultation at your nearest American Fibroid affiliated center.

How is UFE Performed?

Uterine fibroid embolization is performed as an outpatient procedure at one of our state-of-the-art facilities in NY or NJ. Our affiliated fibroid specialists are experts in performing minimally invasive UFE procedures. Before the procedure, you’ll receive local anesthesia and conscious IV sedation to help you relax and ensure that you’re comfortable during the procedure. Your specialist will then make a small incision in the wrist or groin. Using direct image guidance, with ultrasound and fluoroscopy, one of our American Fibroid Centers affiliated physicians inserts a thin catheter into the artery at the top of your wrist or groin and guides it to the uterine artery.

Once the physician locates the blood supply to the  fibroids, he or she injects tiny particles (the size of a grain of sand) in a controlled manner, directly into the small blood vessels that “feed” the fibroids. The particles block the blood flow, causing the fibroids to starve of oxygen and nutrients. After the procedure is complete, you will be monitored for a short period in our on-site recovery room. You will be given detailed instructions before you leave. Follow-up exams will also be scheduled to track your progress.

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UFE Recovery

On the day of your UFE procedure, you will be able to go home to begin your recovery. You can expect mild to moderate pain and cramping in your lower abdomen and pelvis for the first 24 to 72 hours following your procedure. It will feel similar to what you experience during a normal menstrual cycle but will controlled with prescription pain medicines and should subside quickly over the days Patients who undergo UFE are typically able to resume daily activities after about 7-10 days. During this time, you should avoid heavy lifting or strenuous tasks and sexual intercourse, along with any other recommendations by your doctor.

What to Expect After UFE

After your UFE procedure, you can expect to feel better each day. Fibroid symptoms typically dissipate within the first three months after the procedure is performed. Your next few menstrual cycles may be heavier than normal. Additionally, some women may pass fibroid tissue during this three-month period.

Most women recover from UFE without any complications, and they are able to get back to their normal routine within a week to 10 days. About 85-90% of women who undergo UFE get relief from their symptoms, and their fibroids shrink measurably. You will follow up with your doctor after the procedure and may receive a follow up ultrasound or MRI to monitor the healing process.

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Why Choose American Fibroid Centers for UFE?

The American Fibroid Centers’ affiliated physicians are among the nation’s most respected providers of endovascular procedures, such as uterine fibroid embolization. You can rely on them for expert care before, during, and after UFE. If you have any questions or concerns along the way, our team is here to help. 

At American Fibroid Centers, our main goal is to quickly and efficiently reduce fibroids in women at our offices in New York and New Jersey. Most of our facilities are accredited by the Joint Commission and adhere to the utmost health code standards. Contact us for more information about UFE or to meet with an affiliated physician near you.

Our Fibroid Specialists

Our affiliated physicians at American Fibroid Centers are board certified and have years of experience treating women with fibroids. They are committed to providing high-quality, comprehensive care for your condition in a safe and comforting environment. Meet with one of our fibroid specialists in NY or NJ to get relief for your fibroid symptoms.

Our Fibroid Centers in NY & NJ

The American Fibroid Centers’ locations are equipped with a team of professionals and the most advanced technology and tools available for uterine fibroid treatment. Find your nearest outpatient center in New York or New Jersey to receive an accurate diagnosis and personalized care plan.

Brooklyn, NY
71, Carroll Street, New York, 11231
(833) 833-3973
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Queens, NY
28-18, 31st Street, New York, 11102
(833) 833-3973
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Fishkill, NY
60, Merritt Boulevard, Fishkill, New York, 12524
(833) 833-3973
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Harlem, NY
505, East 116th Street, New York, New York, 10029
(833) 833-3973
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West Orange, NJ
347, Mount Pleasant Avenue, West Orange, New Jersey, 07052
(833) 833-3973
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What Our Patients Are Saying

Learn more about our patients’ experiences at American Fibroid Centers.

You really need to identify who you are when texting.
Lt P
Lt P
17:01 21 Jun 23
Very professional and informative
Kieran McDonald
Kieran McDonald
21:48 12 Jun 23
Dr. Abadir and his staff are wonderful.
debdefran
debdefran
21:28 03 May 23
Wonderful staff very kind very thorough no waiting♥️. I’ve never been to a doctors office and treated with so much respect.. I’m looking forward to my next appointment 😇
Denise Sciarra
Denise Sciarra
16:16 17 Mar 23
The staff could not have been friendlier! I was treated so well and my procedure was a huge success!
Darcy Sala
Darcy Sala
14:44 28 Feb 23
Very friendly and hard working people. Excellent doctor and team!!!Thanks for being so helpful and encouraging!
finda jackson
finda jackson
13:37 03 Feb 23
Great experience very through staff are extremely helpful and friendly no wait time I highly recommend.
william cardoza
william cardoza
15:05 12 Sep 22
A doctor who listens, smart and personable, I liked him.
sherry svec
sherry svec
21:38 16 May 22
Went there for the first time didn’t have to fill out paperwork which constantly asked the same question. Nurses were friendly didn’t have to come back a second time to have test done did it rite then, doctor explain everything set up appointment to have procedure done and I’m very confident in the doctor
GARY DINI
GARY DINI
12:23 25 Jan 22
Excellent service. Dr. Abadir and staff were attentive and thoughtful. All communication regarding my visit were clear and concise and they took the time to listen and address all of my questions. Great visit!
dennis bernstein
dennis bernstein
14:50 21 Jan 22
I thank you very much you took good care I feel great I am very happy with you and I will be back .
Maleta Ford
Maleta Ford
14:24 02 Sep 21
Super friendly and communicative. Efficient staff in the office. A unique experience for a doctors office. Dr Abadir was concise and effective in his exam and explanations
William Silsdorf
William Silsdorf
19:56 07 Jun 21
I found the staff Extremely cordial and professional. Dr. Abidir took his time and explained what procedures needed to be doneAnd why he recommended them to establish a diagnosis.Dr. Abidir was reassuring and listened to and answered all of my questions.So far I am very pleased with the endo vascularProgram here.Clare Garvey
Clare Garvey
Clare Garvey
20:39 17 May 21
Pleased with staff and doctor is very compassionate
Jose Quinones
Jose Quinones
23:57 15 Mar 21
Thank you to you and your great staff.Bill Baratta
Rita Baratta
Rita Baratta
15:07 26 Jan 21
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From the Experts

Get to know more about the symptoms, causes, treatment, and care of Uterine Fibroids.

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Request A Consultation

Request a consultation at your nearest American Fibroid affiliated center.