Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths in or on the uterus. Uterine fibroids can cause signs such as pain during menstruation, heavy and prolonged periods, pelvic pain, etc. Fibroids size can vary from small to large and you may have one or more fibroids. Though fibroids are non-cancerous, you should consider undergoing treatment to get rid of the signs and discomfort.
Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) is one of the most popular and effective procedures for treating fibroids. It is a minimally invasive procedure that shrinks the fibroids without the need for surgery.
What is Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)?
UFE is an image-guided procedure where a catheter is guided towards the uterine wall using fluoroscopy. During the procedure, the interventional radiologist sends tiny particles into the uterine arteries that supply blood to the fibroids. This will block the blood flow to the fibroids and thereby shrinks the fibroids. This will reduce your signs and ease your discomfort.
Frequently Asked Questions about Uterine Fibroids
When you consider Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE), you may have several questions running in your mind. It is important to be clear about the procedure before deciding on UFE. The following are some of the frequently asked questions on UFE:
Who can Undergo UFE?
You should meet the following criteria to undergo UFE:
- Should be above the age of 18
- Should not be pregnant
- You wish to remain fertile and preserve your uterus
- Should not have any pelvic infection
- Should have symptomatic fibroids
What advantages do UFE offer?
UFE procedure offers the following benefits:
- Minimally invasive
- Safe and effective
- Can be performed on an outpatient basis
- Faster recovery
- Improves quality of life
Can I get rid of heavy periods after UFE?
Most women who undergo UFE report an improvement in their heavy and prolonged periods.
How long does the embolization procedure take?
The entire procedure can take around 1 to 3 hours. However, the duration varies based on the size and number of fibroids to be treated.
How effective is UFE?
UFE is highly effective and fibroids start shrinking immediately after the procedure. By six months, the fibroids can shrink and you find improvement in your signs.
Do the particles used in Embolization cause any allergy?
The particles used in uterine fibroid Embolization (UFE) do not cause any allergy to any patient in any part of the body. The particles used in embolization are completely safe.
Will embolization create new fibroids?
Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) does not lead to the formation of any new fibroids. This is one of the main advantages of embolization.
Does embolization affect fertility?
Embolization does not affect fertility. Women who had embolization have successfully conceived and delivered healthy babies.
How soon can I start trying for pregnancy after embolization?
Once you had embolization, it is recommended to wait for six months before trying for pregnancy.
How successful is Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)?
UFE procedure is 90% successful. Almost all the patients who had embolization have found a reduction in fibroids.
Is general anesthesia administered during embolization?
No, general anesthesia is not required for embolization. UFE is performed under local anesthesia to numb the site where embolization is performed.
Do I need to stay overnight after the procedure?
Embolization is performed on an outpatient basis. You do not need to stay in the hospital after embolization.
Is there any limit to the number of fibroids that can be treated with embolization?
There is no limit on how many number of fibroids can be treated with embolization. All the fibroids can be treated at once with embolization.
Have More Questions About Uterine Fibroids Embolization? Meet Dr Pradyumna Reddy Today
If your fibroids are causing severe signs and planning to undergo uterine fibroid embolization, meet Dr Pradyumna Reddy. Dr Pradyumna Reddy, an experienced interventional radiologist, has performed several UFE procedures in Hyderabad with 100% patient satisfaction. He specializes in performing minimally invasive procedures in Hyderabad. He strives hard to achieve optimal patient outcomes while delivering the best care and experience. To know more Dr Pradyumna Reddy and his treatments, schedule your appointment today.
