Heavy periods can disrupt work, family plans, sleep and everyday confidence. For people with symptomatic uterine fibroids, treatment choices can feel daunting, especially when surgery is being considered. Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE), also called uterine artery embolization, is a minimally invasive treatment that may help eligible patients manage symptoms without removing the uterus.
What Are Uterine Fibroids?
Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths of muscle and connective tissue in or around the uterus. They are common during the reproductive years, particularly in the 30s and 40s. Some people have no symptoms; others experience heavy or prolonged periods, pelvic pain or pressure, bloating, frequent urination, or tiredness related to anaemia.
Arrange a medical assessment if bleeding becomes heavier or lasts longer than usual. Seek urgent care for severe pelvic pain, significant dizziness or exceptionally heavy bleeding.
How Does Uterine Fibroid Embolization Work?
During uterine fibroid embolization (UFE), a specialist interventional radiologist guides a thin catheter through an artery, usually accessed through the wrist or groin, towards the arteries supplying the fibroids. Tiny embolic particles are released to reduce their blood supply. As the fibroids shrink over time, related symptoms may improve. The procedure is performed using imaging guidance and commonly takes around one to two hours. Local anaesthetic and sedation are used according to the clinical plan.
Many patients go home the same day or after an overnight stay. UFE is not suitable for everyone, so discuss expected benefits with a specialist.
Who May Be Suitable for UFE?
UFE may suit patients with symptomatic fibroids who want to keep their uterus or explore an alternative to surgery. Suitability depends on fibroid size and location, symptoms, health and pregnancy plans. It may not be appropriate during pregnancy, with pelvic infection, certain cancers, severe kidney conditions or contrast-agent allergy. A specialist can assess individual risks.
Tests, Treatment and Recovery
Assessment may include pelvic ultrasound or MRI, blood tests, kidney-function tests and checks for other causes of bleeding. During treatment, the access site is numbed and a catheter is guided to the uterine arteries under imaging. Embolic particles reduce the fibroids’ blood supply; the catheter is then removed and the access site sealed.
Cramping or pelvic discomfort can occur after UFE and is generally managed with medication. Some patients experience a low-grade fever or vaginal discharge. Many return to usual activities within about one to two weeks, although recovery varies and improvement in fibroid symptoms may take longer. Follow-up is important to assess the response. Potential complications include infection, passage of fibroid tissue, persistent symptoms and, rarely, effects on ovarian function or early menopause. Some patients may need further treatment.
UFE, Hysterectomy or Myomectomy: Understanding the Options
A hysterectomy removes the uterus and ends menstruation; fibroids cannot recur in a uterus that has been removed, but the operation is major surgery and recovery can be longer. A myomectomy removes fibroids while preserving the uterus and may be preferred for some patients who wish to become pregnant. UFE avoids an open surgical incision in many cases and can offer a shorter recovery, but outcomes and reproductive considerations differ. No single treatment is best for everyone. Discuss benefits, limitations and pregnancy plans with the relevant specialists.
UFE at C3 Medicare in Chembur, Mumbai
At C3 Medicare in Chembur, Mumbai, interventional radiology procedures are provided on an outpatient basis. Dr Rochan Pant, a subspecialist interventional radiologist, reviews MRI and ultrasound scans, explains options and addresses questions before recommending a treatment plan. Follow-up can be coordinated with gynaecologists when needed.
Patients can learn more through the uterine fibroids page and bring recent imaging reports, blood-test results and a list of symptoms or medicines to a consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is UFE painful? Patients may experience cramping or discomfort for a day or two afterwards; the care team can provide medication and guidance.
How long is recovery? Many patients resume everyday activities within one to two weeks, but the timeline varies and symptom improvement may take a few months.
Can I become pregnant after UFE? Pregnancy has occurred after UFE, but evidence is limited and fertility outcomes require careful discussion. Myomectomy may be preferred for some people planning pregnancy. Seek personalised advice before deciding.
What does UFE cost in Mumbai, and is it insured? Costs depend on investigations, imaging and the care required. Insurance coverage varies by policy, so check directly with the insurer and ask the clinic for an estimate after assessment.
Making an Informed Decision
Uterine fibroids have several treatment options, and hysterectomy is not the only approach for every patient. For some eligible people, uterine fibroid embolization may help relieve symptoms while preserving the uterus. A consultation with an interventional radiologist can clarify whether UFE, myomectomy, medication or another option best fits the individual’s health needs and future plans.
