When it comes to treating uterine fibroids without surgery, two terms are often mentioned — Uterine Artery Embolization (UAE) and Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE). Many people use them interchangeably, but there are subtle differences worth understanding. Knowing these distinctions can help women make informed decisions about their treatment options.
What Are UAE and UFE?UAE (Uterine Artery Embolization):
UAE is a broad term that describes blocking the blood flow in the uterine arteries using a catheter and tiny particles. This procedure can be performed not only for fibroids but also for other uterine conditions, such as heavy bleeding after childbirth or abnormal uterine bleeding caused by different reasons.
UFE (Uterine Fibroid Embolization):
UFE is a more specific term. It refers to uterine artery embolization performed specifically to shrink fibroids and relieve fibroid-related symptoms such as heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, or pressure.
In simple terms: every UFE is a UAE, but not every UAE is a UFE.
Similarities Between UFE and UAEBecause UFE is essentially a type of UAE, they share many features:
Minimally invasive – both use a small incision to insert a catheter guided by imaging.
Blood supply blocked – tiny particles are injected to cut off blood flow to fibroids, making them shrink.
Uterus preservation – unlike hysterectomy, both procedures leave the uterus intact.
Faster recovery – most women can return to normal activities within a week.
Effective symptom relief – both improve heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and pressure.
The Key Difference AspectUAEUFEScopeUsed for fibroids and other uterine bleeding issuesUsed only for fibroid treatmentPurposeBroader – may include emergency bleeding or non-fibroid conditionsFocused – specifically targets fibroidsHow doctors use the termWhen the goal is to address different uterine artery problemsWhen the treatment is clearly for fibroid-related symptoms Benefits of UFE/UAEA non-surgical alternative to hysterectomy or myomectomy
Shorter hospital stay and faster recovery
Can treat multiple fibroids at once
Provides significant symptom relief
Less risk of complications compared to major surgery
Important ConsiderationsWhile both UAE and UFE are safe and effective, they may not be the best choice for every woman. Women planning future pregnancies may want to carefully discuss fertility outcomes with their doctor, as surgery like myomectomy is sometimes preferred. Possible risks include temporary cramping, infection, or, rarely, uterine injury.
ConclusionIn practice, the difference between UAE and UFE lies mostly in terminology. UAE is the general procedure name, while UFE is the specific term used when it is performed to treat fibroids. Both are minimally invasive, uterus-preserving, and highly effective treatments that offer women relief from painful or disruptive fibroid symptoms without major surgery.
For women considering their options, understanding this distinction can help clarify discussions with doctors and provide confidence in choosing the best treatment plan.
