Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus and affect millions of women worldwide. While often benign, fibroids can cause significant symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and pressure on the bladder or bowel. Traditionally, treatments for fibroids ranged from medication to invasive surgery, but advances in medical technology have introduced less invasive alternatives. One such option gaining attention is Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE). This blog explores what UFE fibroids treatment is, how it works, its benefits, and considerations for women seeking relief from fibroid symptoms.

What Are UFE Fibroids?

The term "UFE fibroids" refers to the treatment of uterine fibroids using Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE), also known as uterine artery embolization. UFE is a minimally invasive procedure performed by interventional radiologists that aims to shrink fibroids by cutting off their blood supply. Unlike traditional surgeries like myomectomy or hysterectomy, UFE avoids large incisions, significantly reducing recovery time and complications.

How Does UFE Work?

During the UFE procedure, a small catheter is inserted through a tiny incision, usually in the groin or wrist, and guided to the uterine arteries that supply blood to the fibroids. Once in place, tiny embolic particles are injected into these arteries to block blood flow to the fibroids. Deprived of oxygen and nutrients, the fibroids gradually shrink and symptoms diminish.

The procedure typically takes about one to two hours and is usually performed on an outpatient basis or with a short hospital stay. Most patients experience mild to moderate pain or cramping afterward, which can be managed with medication.

Benefits of UFE for Fibroids

UFE offers several advantages that make it an appealing choice for many women dealing with fibroids:

Minimally Invasive: No large incisions mean less risk of infection, reduced blood loss, and minimal scarring.Shorter Recovery Time: Most women resume normal activities within one to two weeks, compared to several weeks for surgical options.Uterus Preservation: Unlike hysterectomy, which removes the uterus entirely, UFE preserves the uterus, which is important for women who wish to maintain fertility or avoid major surgery.Effective Symptom Relief: Studies report significant symptom improvement in about 85-90% of patients undergoing UFE.Outpatient Procedure: Many patients can go home the same day, reducing hospital costs and inconvenience. Who Is a Candidate for UFE?

UFE is generally recommended for women who have symptomatic fibroids and want a less invasive alternative to surgery. Ideal candidates include:

Women experiencing heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, or pressure symptoms caused by fibroids.Those who want to avoid hysterectomy or major surgery.Women who may want to preserve their uterus for fertility or personal reasons.

However, UFE may not be suitable for everyone. Women who are pregnant, have an active pelvic infection, or certain types of fibroids may require different treatment approaches. A detailed consultation with a gynecologist and interventional radiologist is essential to determine candidacy.

Considerations and Risks

While UFE is generally safe, it’s important to consider potential risks and limitations:

Post-Embolization Syndrome: Some patients experience flu-like symptoms, pain, or fever after the procedure, which usually resolve within a few days.Fertility Impact: Although UFE preserves the uterus, its impact on fertility is still under study. Women desiring future pregnancies should discuss this carefully with their doctor.Fibroid Recurrence: Fibroids may shrink but not disappear completely, and symptoms could recur in some cases.Rare Complications: Infection, non-target embolization, or damage to surrounding tissues are rare but possible. UFE Fibroids vs. Surgical Options

Compared to myomectomy (surgical removal of fibroids) and hysterectomy (removal of the uterus), UFE offers a less invasive option with quicker recovery. However, surgery may be preferred if fibroids are very large, numerous, or if there are other uterine abnormalities. Each treatment has its own pros and cons, and the best choice depends on the patient’s health, symptom severity, reproductive goals, and personal preferences.

Conclusion

UFE fibroids treatment represents a modern, minimally invasive approach to managing symptomatic uterine fibroids with promising outcomes. By cutting off the blood supply to fibroids, UFE helps shrink these growths and alleviate distressing symptoms without the need for major surgery. Women considering treatment for fibroids should consult with specialized healthcare providers to understand the full range of options, including UFE, and choose the one best suited to their individual needs.

If you or someone you know struggles with fibroid symptoms, discussing UFE with a qualified interventional radiologist or gynecologist can be the first step toward effective relief and improved quality of life.