For many women with symptomatic fibroids, a hysterectomy is not the only path. A minimally invasive, non-surgical option called uterine fibroid embolization can shrink fibroids and ease symptoms while leaving your uterus in place.
July is Fibroid Awareness Month, so we pulled together straight answers to the questions patients in Federal Way ask us most.
What is uterine fibroid embolization (UFE)?
Uterine fibroid embolization is a non-surgical procedure that treats fibroids by cutting off their blood supply. Embolization simply means blocking blood flow to a specific area.
During UFE, one of our interventional radiologists (a physician who performs image-guided, minimally invasive procedures) makes a tiny opening at the wrist or groin and guides a thin tube called a catheter to the arteries feeding your fibroids. Tiny particles are released to block those arteries. Without a blood supply, the fibroids shrink over the following weeks and months, and symptoms usually ease noticeably.
How is UFE different from a hysterectomy or myomectomy?
The main difference is what happens to your uterus.
- A hysterectomy removes the uterus entirely and permanently ends fibroids and fertility.
- A myomectomy surgically removes the fibroids but keeps the uterus, and is often recommended for women planning a pregnancy soon.
- ⭐ UFE treats the fibroids without surgery and without removing anything.
The Society of Interventional Radiology notes that UFE sits in the middle of the treatment spectrum and avoids many side effects associated with more invasive surgery.
Does UFE hurt, and how long is recovery?
UFE is an outpatient procedure, so patients go home the same day. Discomfort in the first day or two is common and often feels like stronger-than-usual period cramping, which is managed with medication.
Most patients recover in about one to two weeks, compared with four to six weeks for a hysterectomy. Recovery varies from person to person, so your care team will give you specifics for your situation.
Do fibroids come back after UFE?
For most women, UFE provides lasting relief, and studies show it is effective at shrinking fibroids and reducing heavy bleeding in a high percentage of cases. It has been used for roughly 30 years.
That said, fibroids can sometimes return or new ones can form. When that happens, UFE can often be repeated, or your physician can discuss other options.
Can I still get pregnant after UFE?
Because UFE preserves the uterus, pregnancy afterward is possible, and many women have gone on to have healthy pregnancies. The research on fertility after UFE is still ongoing, however, and for women who are actively trying to conceive, myomectomy is recommended first.
The honest answer is that it depends on your age, your fibroids, and your reproductive goals. If future pregnancy is important to you, tell us up front so we can guide you to the right option for your body and your plans. This is one to talk through carefully with both your care team and your OB-GYN.
Is UFE covered by insurance?
In most cases, when fibroids are causing symptoms, UFE is considered a medically necessary procedure and is covered by insurance. Coverage does vary by plan.
We work with most major insurers, and our team is happy to help you understand your specific benefits before anything is scheduled. You can start with our insurance and billing information, then give us a call with questions.
Am I a good candidate for UFE?
The best candidates are usually women with symptomatic fibroids who want relief without major surgery. UFE is not recommended for every fibroid or every patient, which is why an evaluation matters.
At Sound Vascular & Vein, that consultation includes reviewing your imaging, your symptoms, and your goals with Dr. Baheti and our team. The Office on Women’s Health encourages women to weigh symptom severity and future pregnancy plans when choosing any fibroid treatment. As always, the right choice is the one you make together with your doctor.
Ready to Explore Your Options?
You should not have to plan your life around fibroids, and you deserve to hear about every option, not just surgery. If heavy bleeding, pelvic pressure, or fatigue are wearing you down, our team is here to help you understand what is possible.
Request a consultation online or call (253) 874-7107. For a deeper comparison of treatment paths, our earlier guide on treating fibroids without surgery is a good next read.
