When it comes to treating uterine fibroids, medical terms can sometimes feel confusing. You may have come across two similar-sounding procedures — Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) and Uterine Artery Embolization (UAE). Both treatments are minimally invasive, highly effective, and focused on reducing fibroid symptoms without surgery. However, many women wonder whether there’s any real difference between UFE and UAE. Understanding these procedures and what sets them apart can help you make an informed decision about your fibroid treatment options.

What Are Uterine Fibroids?

Uterine fibroids are noncancerous tumors that grow in or around the uterus. They are common among women of reproductive age and can vary in size and number. Some women have fibroids that cause little to no discomfort, while others experience significant symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pressure, frequent urination, and fatigue. In some cases, fibroids can even impact fertility or cause pain during intercourse.

Because fibroids affect each woman differently, choosing the right treatment is an important and personal decision. This is where procedures like UFE and UAE come in—offering relief without major surgery or long recovery times.

What Is Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)?

Uterine Fibroid Embolization, often referred to as UFE, is a non-surgical procedure that targets fibroids directly. During UFE, an interventional radiologist uses image guidance to insert a small catheter into the uterine arteries, usually through the wrist or groin. Tiny particles are then injected into the blood vessels supplying the fibroids, cutting off their oxygen and nutrient flow.

As a result, the fibroids shrink over time, and related symptoms like heavy bleeding and pelvic pain improve significantly. UFE is performed under local anesthesia and sedation, meaning most women return home the same day. Recovery typically lasts one to two weeks, much shorter than the recovery from surgical procedures like hysterectomy or myomectomy.

What Is Uterine Artery Embolization (UAE)?

Uterine Artery Embolization, or UAE, uses the same medical technique as UFE. The main difference lies in the terminology. UAE emphasizes the arteries being treated, while UFE focuses on the fibroids being targeted. Both procedures use the same method of blocking the blood flow that feeds the fibroids, leading to their gradual shrinkage.

In essence, UAE and UFE are the same procedure described in two different ways. The distinction is mainly in how healthcare professionals refer to it—some use “UAE” as the broader medical term for any treatment involving the uterine arteries, while “UFE” is more commonly used when referring specifically to fibroid treatment.

The Main Difference Between UFE and UAE

When exploring the difference between UFE and UAE, it’s important to understand that both procedures achieve the same goal: to treat fibroids effectively without surgery. The distinction is primarily in language, not in practice.

UFE and UAE are performed by interventional radiologists using the same tools, imaging techniques, and medical approach. Both are minimally invasive and designed to preserve the uterus, making them ideal for women who want to avoid hysterectomy. Whether your doctor uses the term UFE or UAE, you can be confident that you’re receiving a safe, established, and effective fibroid treatment.

The difference between UFE and UAE often depends on the context. In general:

UAE refers to the embolization of uterine arteries for any condition, including fibroids or postpartum bleeding. UFE is a specific type of UAE that focuses only on treating fibroids.

So while all UFEs are UAEs, not all UAEs are UFEs — that’s the simplest way to think of it.

Benefits of Embolization Procedures

Both UFE and UAE provide numerous benefits compared to traditional surgery. These include:

No large incisions or general anesthesia Shorter recovery time (1–2 weeks) Reduced risk of complications Preservation of the uterus and hormonal balance Relief from heavy bleeding, pain, and pressure

Many women also appreciate that embolization procedures allow them to return to normal activities much faster than surgery. Since these treatments are performed in outpatient settings, you can go home the same day and recover comfortably.

Who Can Benefit from UFE or UAE?

Women with symptomatic fibroids who wish to avoid surgery are often good candidates for UFE or UAE. You may benefit if you experience:

Heavy menstrual bleeding or clotting Pelvic pressure or bloating Frequent urination due to bladder pressure Lower back or leg pain Fatigue caused by anemia from blood loss

A consultation with a fibroid specialist can confirm if embolization is right for you. Imaging tests such as an MRI or ultrasound help determine the size, number, and location of your fibroids, ensuring the treatment is safe and effective for your condition.

What to Expect During and After the Procedure

During either UFE or UAE, you’ll receive local anesthesia and mild sedation to stay comfortable. Using real-time imaging, the interventional radiologist guides a thin catheter to the uterine arteries and releases tiny embolic particles. Once the blood supply is blocked, fibroids gradually shrink, and symptoms begin to improve over several weeks.

After the procedure, you may experience mild cramping or fatigue for a few days. Most women return to light activities within a week. Over the following months, many report significant improvement in their quality of life as symptoms lessen.

Why Choose USA Fibroid Centers

Choosing a trusted provider is essential when seeking fibroid treatment. USA Fibroid Centers offers expert care from board-certified interventional radiologists who specialize in minimally invasive procedures like UFE and UAE. Their clinics are designed to provide a comfortable outpatient experience, ensuring patients receive high-quality care without hospital stays.

At USA Fibroid Centers, the focus is on education, empowerment, and personalized treatment. Every woman’s fibroid experience is unique, and their specialists take the time to explain each step of the procedure so you can make informed decisions with confidence.

With convenient locations across the country, USA Fibroid Centers makes advanced fibroid care accessible and compassionate. Their team also assists with insurance verification and post-procedure recovery guidance, supporting you from consultation through follow-up.

Taking Control of Your Fibroid Health

Understanding the difference between UFE and UAE is an important step toward reclaiming your health and comfort. Both procedures offer effective, minimally invasive solutions that can relieve fibroid symptoms and restore your quality of life.

If you’ve been searching for a treatment that allows you to avoid surgery while still achieving meaningful relief, embolization may be right for you. Schedule a consultation at USA Fibroid Centers today to learn more about your options and take the next step toward a healthier, more confident future.