While it’s possible to have fibroids without any symptoms, this isn’t always the case. Once there are symptoms, your options for managing or treating your condition will vary. According to a 2018 study, approximately 70 percent of those who had symptoms with their fibroids opted for medication while the remaining 30 percent had some type of surgical procedure. Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) is one of the procedures that your doctor might suggest so here’s what you need to know about it.
What Is UFE?
Uterine fibroid embolization is a medical procedure that’s meant to shrink your fibroids by depriving them of the blood they need to thrive. It is a relatively simple procedure in which a catheter is inserted through a vein in the blood or wrist.
Using an X-ray as a guide, an embolic agent is injected through the catheter that will flow through the uterine arteries to block blood flow to the fibroids. Once that’s complete, the surgeon will close the small incision. Depending on the size of your fibroids, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months for the growths to shrink to an acceptable size.
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Why Your Doctor Might Recommend UFE
Doctors typically recommend UFE because it’s a minimally invasive surgery that is highly effective. In fact, 85 percent of people who have the procedure notice a significant reduction in their symptoms within a month or two of the procedure. This was most important for those who were experiencing heavy bleeding during menstruation as this often resulted in anemia. The other 15 percent either needed to do the procedure a second time or opted for a more invasive method.
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Unlike a myomectomy or hysterectomy, you won’t have a long recovery time and there’s a lower risk of complications from the procedure.
Additionally, you can qualify for the procedure whether you have one or multiple fibroids. The procedure also works for different sizes of fibroids so your doctor is only likely to skip UFE if your fibroids are too large for the procedure to be successful. Since the embolic agents remain in place permanently, it’s rare for fibroids to regrow in the same place.
It’s important to note, however, that UFE might not be right for you if you’re interested in having children. While there are no definitive figures, a few studies have suggested that UFE can change how the ovaries function.
You may also be at a higher risk of preterm labor and placental abnormalities. The best thing to do is consult with your doctor about what the procedure can mean for your fertility.
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What To Expect When You Undergo UFE
The procedure is typically done in a medical facility and you won’t be able to eat solid food for several hours before your appointment. Since certain medications may increase your risk of bleeding, it’s critical that you let your doctor know what kind of drugs you’re taking.
Generally, a UFE lasts for 90 minutes and your doctor may ask you to stay in the hospital overnight for continued observation. However, some people are approved to go home on the same day.
While it can take up to 10 days to completely recover from the procedure, the first few days usually have the most significant symptoms. These can include pelvic pain, pelvic pressure, and nausea but you should be able to manage these with medicine prescribed by your doctor. Some people also report feeling flu-like in the early days of recovery. If any of your symptoms get worse, call your doctor immediately.
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It’s also normal for your first month’s menses to be heavier than you’ve had before. However, this should be resolved by the next time you menstruate. Depending on the size or number of your fibroids, it can take as long as nine months for your fibroids to completely shrink but most people see an improvement in their symptoms within the first month or two.
If you’re dealing with the symptoms of fibroids, you need to know all of your options for relieving them. One procedure that your doctor may suggest is a UFE. There are several benefits to having a UFE but that doesn’t mean it will be right for everyone. It’s always best to have a frank discussion with your doctor about what having a UFE could mean for you.
