Uterine Fibroid Embolization

What Causes Uterine Fibroids?

Uterine fibroids are benign growths that develop within the muscle tissue of the uterus. They range in size from tiny “seedlings” undetectable to the human eye to bulky masses that can distort and enlarge the uterus but aren’t cancerous and won’t increase your risk of uterine cancer. However, they can cause abnormal pain or bleeding during menstruation.

While the exact cause of uterine fibroids is unclear, several risk factors have been shown to influence their development, including:

• Hormones: Estrogen and progesterone, two hormones that stimulate the development of the uterine lining during each menstrual cycle, appear to promote fibroid growth — fibroids are often linked to higher-than-normal estrogen levels
• Family history: Fibroids tend to run in families — if your mother or sister has fibroids, you’re at an increased risk of developing them yourself
• Age: Women of reproductive age are more likely to develop fibroids, and fibroids tend to shrink after menopause as hormone levels drop
• Racial background: Uterine fibroids are two to three times more common in Black women — they are also more severe and tend to develop at an earlier age
• Weight: Women who are overweight or obese are at a higher risk of uterine fibroids

More research is needed to understand the cause of uterine fibroids, but progestin-only birth control and healthy lifestyle changes may help lower your risk. It might not be possible to prevent them entirely, so it’s important to talk to your doctor if you’re experiencing symptoms. 

Benefits of Uterine Fibroid Embolization

When considering treatment for uterine fibroids, many women find themselves comparing UFE with more traditional surgical approaches. Understanding these differences can help you make an informed decision about your care. UFE offers several significant advantages, such as:

• Preserving the uterus, unlike surgical procedures like hysterectomy
• No general anesthesia
• Minimally invasive, requiring only a small nick in the skin
• Shorter recovery time
• Treats all fibroids simultaneously 
• Effective, long-lasting symptom relief

At the Orange County Interventional Radiology Center, UFE provides the perfect balance for many of our patients, helping them achieve effective and meaningful symptom relief from uterine fibroids while minimizing disruption to their personal and professional lives.

What to Expect During Treatment

UFE is a minimally invasive procedure that is performed on an outpatient basis, meaning no hospital stay is required. Local anesthesia and mild sedation are used to keep you comfortable. During treatment, our experienced interventional radiologists use advanced imaging technology to guide a thin catheter through a small puncture in your wrist or groin. The catheter is carefully directed to the arteries supplying blood to your fibroids. Tiny particles are then released to block these blood vessels, effectively cutting off the blood supply. Without this nourishment, the fibroids begin to shrink, and symptoms typically improve within three to six months.

Uterine Fibroid Embolization Recovery

Recovery from UFE is significantly easier compared to more invasive procedures, but you may experience side effects such as cramping, pain, nausea and a low-grade fever. While these symptoms are worse the first day or two after treatment, most women return to work and other activities within a week. Over the following months, you’ll notice a gradual improvement in fibroid-related symptoms as they begin to shrink, including lighter periods and less pelvic pain. Studies show that UFE successfully reduces fibroid symptoms in over 85-90% of patients, with many reporting a significant improvement in their overall comfort and quality of life.

Post-Procedure Timeline

• First 24-48 hours: You may experience pelvic pain and cramping, often described as similar to strong menstrual cramps. We’ll provide appropriate pain medication to keep you comfortable.
• First week: Most women can return to light activities within a few days and resume normal activities within seven to 10 days.
• First three months: You’ll begin to notice improvement in your symptoms as the fibroids start to shrink. Many women report lighter periods within the first or second menstrual cycle after the procedure.
• Six months to one year: The full effects of the procedure become apparent as uterine fibroids continue to shrink. The majority of women experience significant or complete resolution of their symptoms by this point.