UFE vs. Myomectomy vs. Hysterectomy: Full Guide to Fibroid Treatment Options

Facing fibroids can feel daunting, especially when it comes to choosing the treatment that’s right for you. Should you go for a minimally invasive procedure that preserves your uterus, a surgery that removes only the fibroids, or a permanent solution that eliminates them entirely? On the surface, your decision may seem to be about symptom relief. But it’s also about your fertility goals, lifestyle, and recovery priorities.

In this guide, we break down the key differences between uterine fibroid embolisation (UFE), myomectomy, and hysterectomy. You’ll get a clear picture of what each option offers, from recovery times and risks to long-term outcomes, so you can make an informed choice that aligns with your life plans.

UFE vs. Myomectomy vs. Hysterectomy: Choosing the Right Fibroid Treatment

Quick Fibroid Treatment Comparison: UFE, Myomectomy, and Hysterectomy

Each procedure has unique benefits, recovery times, and implications for fertility:

Uterine Fibroid Embolisation (UFE): Minimally Invasive with Fast Recovery

UFE works by blocking the blood supply to fibroids, causing them to shrink. It’s performed via a small catheter, without stitches, and most patients return to their normal routine in about a week.

Benefits of UFE:

• Relief from heavy bleeding, pelvic pressure, and pain
• Minimally invasive procedure with little downtime
• Preserves the uterus, making it an option for women who want to keep fertility options open
• High satisfaction and improved quality of life for 85–95% of patients

UFE is particularly appealing for women who want effective symptom relief without surgery and a quicker return to daily life.

Myomectomy: Removing Fibroids While Preserving Fertility

Myomectomy surgically removes fibroids while leaving the uterus intact. This makes it the preferred choice for women planning pregnancy.

Key points about myomectomy:

• The surgical approach depends on fibroid size, number, and location
• Recovery ranges from 2 weeks to 6 months, depending on whether surgery is laparoscopic or open
• About 1 in 3 women may see fibroids return over time
• Offers relief from symptoms while preserving fertility

While more invasive than UFE, myomectomy can successfully relieve symptoms and keep future pregnancy options available.

Hysterectomy: A Permanent Solution

Hysterectomy involves the complete removal of the uterus, providing a permanent solution to fibroids. It is usually recommended when fibroids are large, numerous, or causing severe symptoms that haven’t improved with other treatments.

Considerations for hysterectomy:

• Recovery can take up to six weeks
• Ends the possibility of pregnancy permanently
• Emotional adjustment may be necessary for some women
• Most effective way to ensure fibroids cannot return

Hysterectomy offers lasting relief but is the most invasive procedure, involving the greatest lifestyle change.

Comparing Recovery and Risks

Understanding the recovery timeline and potential risks of each procedure helps you choose the option that fits your lifestyle:

UFE stands out for its quick recovery and minimal complications, so it’s ideal for women balancing symptoms with work, family, or other responsibilities. Myomectomy provides a fertility-friendly option but with a longer recovery and higher surgical risk, while hysterectomy is definitive but permanent.

Choosing the Right Fibroid Treatment

The best treatment depends on your health goals, lifestyle, and personal priorities:

• UFE: Ideal for women seeking fast relief with minimal downtime and wanting to preserve fertility.
• Myomectomy: Suitable for those planning future pregnancies and willing to undergo surgery with longer recovery.
• Hysterectomy: Best for women seeking a permanent solution when fertility is no longer a concern.

Every woman’s situation is unique. You can make a confident, informed choice by understanding how each procedure affects your body, recovery, and fertility.

Take Action Towards Your Health

Choosing between UFE, myomectomy, and hysterectomy is a personal decision that should be guided by your individual health goals and lifestyle needs. Knowing your options is the first step to regaining control of your health, whether your priority is preserving fertility, minimising recovery time, or seeking a permanent solution.

At Minima Radiology, our specialists provide expert guidance to help you navigate your fibroid treatment choices. Don’t wait to take control, schedule a consultation today to discuss the option that matches your goals and secure your path to a healthier tomorrow.