UFE is a minimally invasive, non-surgical treatment for women with symptomatic uterine fibroids. UFE works by blocking the blood flow to the fibroids, causing them to shrink and symptoms to improve.
Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids
Many women with fibroids experience:
- Heavy or prolonged menstrual periods
- Pelvic pain or pressure
- Frequent urination
- Pain during intercourse
- Lower back pain
- Bloating or fullness in the abdomen
Who is a Candidate?
UFE may be right for you if:
- You have fibroids causing discomfort or heavy bleeding
- You want to avoid surgery or hysterectomy
- You are not planning to become pregnant
What to Expect During UFE
- The procedure is performed by an interventional radiologist
- A small catheter is inserted into an artery in your wrist or groin
- Tiny particles are injected to block blood flow to the fibroids
- The procedure usually takes 1–2 hours
- Most patients go home the same day
Recovery and Results
Recovery is typically quick, with most women resuming normal activities in 7–10 days. Fibroids start to shrink within weeks, symptoms improve soon after, and follow up imaging helps evaluate the outcome.
Benefits of UFE
This procedure is minimally invasive, requires no surgical incisions, carries a lower risk of complications than surgery, offers a shorter recovery time, and provides effective symptom relief.
When to Call Us
- Fever or chills (possible infection)
- Heavy vaginal bleeding that soaks through pads quickly
- Severe or worsening pain that is not relieved by prescribed medication
- Redness, swelling, or discharge at the catheter insertion site
- Difficulty urinating or bowel changes
- Shortness of breath, chest pain, or leg swelling (rare but urgent signs of blood clot)
