For millions of women worldwide, uterine fibroids are more than just a medical term, they’re a monthly battle. Painful periods, heavy bleeding, and pressure in the abdomen can disrupt everything from work to sleep. If you’ve been told surgery is your only option, here’s good news: there’s a less invasive, highly effective solution called uterine fibroid embolisation (UFE).
This minimally invasive procedure targets fibroids at the source, without the need for major surgery or removal of the uterus. Let’s dive into how uterine fibroid embolisation works, who it’s for, what to expect during recovery, and what kind of results you can expect.
What Is Uterine Fibroid Embolisation?
Uterine fibroid embolisation is a non-surgical treatment used to shrink or destroy fibroids in the uterus. Performed by an interventional radiologist, the procedure involves injecting tiny particles into the blood vessels supplying the fibroids, effectively cutting off their blood flow and causing them to shrink.
Unlike hysterectomy or myomectomy, UFE doesn’t involve removing parts of the uterus. This means shorter recovery time, fewer complications, and preservation of the uterus, an important factor for many women.
What Are Uterine Fibroids?
Uterine fibroids (also called leiomyomas) are benign (non-cancerous) tumors that grow in or on the uterus. While some women never notice them, others experience:
- Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
- Pelvic pressure or pain
- Frequent urination
- Constipation
- Pain during intercourse
- Difficulty becoming or staying pregnant
According to the National Institutes of Health, up to 80% of women will develop fibroids by the age of 50. That’s a huge number, yet many women are never told about minimally invasive alternatives like uterine fibroid embolisation.
Who Is a Candidate for Uterine Fibroid Embolisation?
You may be a good candidate for uterine fibroid embolisation if:
- You have symptomatic fibroids (heavy bleeding, pain, pressure)
- You want to avoid surgery or preserve your uterus
- You are not planning a pregnancy in the near future
- You are medically unfit for surgery
It’s crucial to have a full consultation with a gynecologist and an interventional radiologist. Imaging like an MRI or ultrasound is often done beforehand to evaluate fibroid size, number, and location.
How the Uterine Fibroid Embolisation Procedure Works
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how the UFE procedure typically works:
1. Preparation
- Performed in a hospital or outpatient setting
- Local anesthesia with sedation is usually used
- A small catheter is inserted into the groin or wrist artery
2. Targeting the Fibroids
- Using real-time imaging (fluoroscopy), the catheter is guided into the uterine arteries
- Tiny particles (embolic agents) are released into the arteries that feed the fibroids
3. Blocking the Blood Supply
- The particles block blood flow, starving the fibroids of oxygen and nutrients
- Over time, the fibroids shrink and symptoms improve
4. Post-Procedure
- Most patients stay overnight or go home the same day
- Pain management and rest are key in the first few days
The entire process usually takes 60–90 minutes and has a much lower risk profile than surgical options.
Benefits of Uterine Fibroid Embolisation
UFE offers several advantages compared to traditional treatments like hysterectomy or myomectomy:
- Minimally invasive – No large incisions
- Shorter recovery – Most women return to work within 7–10 days
- Fewer complications – Less risk of infection or blood loss
- Preserves the uterus – No removal of reproductive organs
- Effective symptom relief – Most women report significant improvement
According to a study, about 85-90% of women experience relief from symptoms after uterine fibroid embolisation.
What to Expect During Recovery
Recovery from uterine fibroid embolisation is much easier than traditional surgery, but it still requires care:
Week 1:
- Cramping, pelvic pain, and low energy are common
- Pain medications (prescribed or OTC) may be needed
- Light walking is encouraged to prevent blood clots
Week 2:
- Most women feel significantly better
- Fatigue and mild discomfort may linger
- Many return to work or light activities
Long-Term Recovery:
- Fibroids continue to shrink over several months
- Menstrual bleeding and pain steadily improve
- Periods may become lighter and more manageable
It’s important to attend follow-up appointments to track progress and symptom relief.
Risks and Side Effects
Though uterine fibroid embolisation is generally safe, like all medical procedures, it has potential risks:
- Temporary pelvic pain or cramping
- Low-grade fever or flu-like symptoms
- Vaginal discharge or spotting
- Rarely, early menopause or damage to surrounding tissues
Results: Does Uterine Fibroid Embolisation Really Work?
Yes, and quite impressively! Here’s what studies and patients report:
Fibroid Size Reduction:
- Average shrinkage of 40% to 60% over 6–12 months
Symptom Improvement:
- Up to 90% of patients report significant relief from heavy bleeding and pelvic pain\
Patient Satisfaction:
- 8 out of 10 women say they would recommend UFE to others
A NIH study found that over 85% of patients avoided further treatment for fibroids up to 5 years after their UFE.
UFE vs Other Treatment Options
| Treatment | Invasiveness | Recovery Time | Uterus Preservation | Recurrence Risk |
| UFE | Minimally invasive | 7–10 days | Yes | Low |
| Myomectomy | Surgical | 4–6 weeks | Yes | Moderate |
| Hysterectomy | Major surgery | 6–8 weeks | No | None |
UFE is ideal for women seeking long-term relief without the downtime or emotional toll of major surgery.
When to Consider Uterine Fibroid Embolisation
You should discuss uterine fibroid embolisation with your doctor if:
- Your fibroids are interfering with your life
- You want a uterus-sparing procedure
- You’ve tried medications without success
- You want a faster, less painful recovery than surgery allows
Conclusion: A Life-Changing Option for Women with Fibroids
Uterine fibroid embolisation has changed the game in fibroid treatment. It offers long-lasting relief without removing the uterus, letting women reclaim their health and quality of life. If you’ve been told surgery is your only option, think again.
Speak with an interventional radiologist to find out if UFE is right for you. Because living with fibroids doesn’t have to be your forever.
Ready to explore a non-surgical solution to fibroids?
Contact Dr. Amol Nagvekar’s clinic today to schedule a consultation and find out if uterine fibroid embolisation is the right choice for you.
FAQs
Does uterine fibroid embolization really work?
Yes, uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) is highly effective. Studies show symptom relief in up to 90% of patients, with significant shrinkage of fibroids. It’s a proven, minimally invasive alternative to surgery, offering shorter recovery and preserving the uterus. Results vary, but most women report reduced pain, bleeding, and improved quality of life.
How long does uterine fibroid embolization last?
The benefits of uterine fibroid embolization can last for years. Research suggests that 80–85% of women experience long-term relief for 5–10 years or more. Some may need repeat treatment, especially if new fibroids develop, but many avoid surgery altogether. Durability depends on age, fibroid size, and whether you’re nearing menopause.
What are the disadvantages of fibroid embolization?
While effective, UFE isn’t for everyone. Disadvantages include post-procedure pain, temporary fatigue, and potential recurrence. There’s a small risk of infection or ovarian dysfunction, especially in women nearing menopause. UFE is also not ideal for women planning future pregnancies, as its impact on fertility isn’t fully understood compared to surgical options.
What size fibroid is too big for embolization?
There’s no absolute size limit, but fibroids larger than 10 cm may respond more slowly or less completely to embolization. UFE can still be effective for large fibroids, though multiple sessions or additional treatment may be needed. A thorough evaluation by an interventional radiologist helps determine the best approach for oversized fibroids.