What Is the Process for Uterine Fibroid Embolization?

Uterine fibroids are benign tumors that grow in the uterus. But just because they don’t cause cancer doesn’t mean they don’t need treatment.

Fibroids can cause a range of bothersome symptoms, from pain and bleeding to bladder problems. If you’re one of the 25-50% of women in the United States who experience symptomatic fibroids, you may want to consider uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) – especially if you have severe symptoms.

With his expert team at Midtown Manhattan practice, double board-certified vascular and interventional radiologist Dr. Yosef Golowa provides UFE to bring you lasting relief without major surgery.

If uterine fibroids interfere with your wellness or quality of life, read on to learn how this minimally invasive procedure can help.

When fibroids require treatment

Fibroids are often asymptomatic, but symptoms can be quite bothersome when they arise. Your treatment options may include prescription medication, over-the-counter pain relievers, iron supplements, or fibroid shrinkage or removal or shrinkage through embolization or surgery.

Signs you may benefit from a fibroid procedure include:

• Anemia and heavy menstrual bleeding
• Bowel or urinary difficulties, such as constipation and incontinence
• Chronic or severe lower back or pelvic pain
• Pain during or after sex
• Pressure in your lower abdomen
• Symptoms that don’t improve with conservative care

Your provider may also recommend fibroid treatment if you have trouble getting pregnant. In about 2-3% of women, fibroids fuel infertility.

The uterine fibroid embolization process

Uterine fibroid embolization provides a minimally invasive alternative to a partial or full hysterectomy. It aims to block blood flow to problematic fibroids, prompting them to shrink.

The UFE process starts with inserting a catheter into a blood vessel in your arm or wrist. Through that thin tube, Dr. Golowa sends tiny particles to your fibroids, guided with X-ray images, to hinder the blood supply.

You won’t have to worry about pain during your procedure, thanks to sedation that’ll keep you relaxed and sleepy. Once you return home, over-the-counter or prescription pain medication can help minimize any discomfort.

Uterine fibroid embolization results

While individual results vary, most people notice fewer fibroid symptoms within three months of UFE. From there, your fibroids may shrink for 6-9 months, inviting more improvements.

About 85% of people who receive UFE benefit sufficiently from a single treatment. Up to 10% of people may need another round of UFE for maximum results.

To learn more about nonsurgical fibroid treatment or find out if UFE is ideal for you, call our office today. You can also book an appointment with Dr. Golowa through our website.