Want more iVillage? Sign up for our
Newsletters
Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE)
Uterine fibroid embolization usually takes between 1 and 3 hours, depending on how long it takes to position the catheter and how easy it is to position the catheter in the arteries in the uterus. When the procedure is over, the catheter is removed and pressure is applied to the puncture site for 10 to 15 minutes, unless there are problems with bleeding. A bandage is then applied. You can expect to have at least 6 hours of bed rest after the procedure.
You may be sent home after the bed rest period if your pain is under control, or you may spend the night in the hospital for more observation or pain control. This will depend on your radiologist's normal practice, as well as how well you do after the procedure.
Moderate to severe pelvic pain is common for 6 to 12 hours after this procedure. A stay in the hospital and narcotic pain medicine are used to control this pain, if needed. You can also ask for antinausea medicine if you have nausea or vomiting. Some women are able to control their pain with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen or aspirin.
You may have some vaginal bleeding for a couple of weeks. This is from a fibroid that is breaking down and bleeding.
In some cases, bleeding or pain persist for several months. Some women also pass a fibroid from the vagina, usually 6 weeks to 3 months after having UFE. This can happen even a year afterward. If you do pass fibroid tissue, see your doctor right away to be sure that you do not develop infection or problem bleeding.1
You should be able to return to your usual activities in 7 to 10 days.
Recommended follow-up care after UFE includes a checkup 1 to 3 weeks afterward and an ultrasound or MRI 3 to 6 months later.2
| By: | Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: October 26, 2009 |
| Medical Review: | Sarah Anne Marshall, MD - Family Medicine Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology | |
© 1995-2011 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
