UFE & Future Pregnancies: What to Know About Fertility After Embolisation

The topic of fertility can be deeply personal, and discussing your options can feel daunting. It’s natural to wonder how uterine fibroid embolisation (UFE) might affect your chances of conceiving if you’re considering pregnancy after fibroids. UFE has become a leading alternative to surgery for women who want relief from fibroid symptoms while preserving their uterus. Yet, questions about how it influences fertility and pregnancy outcomes remain common.

In this article, we’ll clarify what current research says about UFE and future pregnancies. You’ll learn how the procedure may impact fertility, what risks to consider, and how choosing UFE with Minima Radiology can support your reproductive goals with confidence.

UFE and Future Pregnancies—Is Pregnancy Still Possible?

Yes, fertility after UFE is possible and many women have gone on to conceive following the procedure. In fact, data shows that at least 40% of women who try to become pregnant after UFE succeed, sometimes without any additional fertility treatments. That said, how UFE affects your ability to get pregnant can vary, depending on your age, the size and location of your fibroids, and your ovarian function.

For example, women under 40 seem to have better outcomes when it comes to UFE and future pregnancies. Younger age means stronger ovarian reserve, which can play a major role in conception. However, for women over 40, fertility may decline more steeply, both naturally and due to the potential effects of the procedure. It’s important to talk with your doctor about realistic expectations based on your health and personal goals.

What the Research Shows About Getting Pregnant After Fibroid Embolisation

Research on getting pregnant after fibroid embolisation is growing. One long-term study tracked nearly 360 women who had UFE. Within two years, 37% became pregnant, and many of those pregnancies were first-time pregnancies. Some women conceived naturally, while others used help like IVF or ovulation-stimulating medications.

UFE patients may face a few more pregnancy-related challenges than those who haven’t had the procedure or who opt for surgery like myomectomy. Some reports show a higher rate of miscarriage or issues like preterm birth and placenta problems after UFE. But remember, fibroids themselves can increase pregnancy risks, so it’s hard to tell whether complications come from the fibroids, the treatment, or a mix of both.

What to Discuss With Your Doctor Regarding UFE and Conception

It’s important to be open about your future goals if you’re looking at UFE and conception as part of your reproductive plans. Your doctor can explain how certain types of fibroids may respond to UFE, and how that could shape your chances of getting pregnant. Fertility after UFE depends on the treatment, how your body heals, how your cycle continues, and whether your uterus supports pregnancy in the months or years that follow.

Ultimately, UFE and future pregnancies are closely linked in terms of planning and decision-making. UFE offers a meaningful path forward for many, one that eases symptoms while still leaving space for motherhood.

Understanding the Impact of UFE on Egg Quality and Ovaries

Another concern tied to UFE and future pregnancies involves how the procedure may affect the ovaries. In some cases—especially for older women—blood flow to the ovaries can be disrupted during embolisation. This reduction in blood supply might lead to a decline in hormone levels and egg quality, which could affect fertility after UFE. While this doesn’t happen to everyone, age and ovarian reserve play a major role in how the body responds. Women who are hoping to expand their families may want to discuss these possibilities in detail with their healthcare team.

What to Know About Delivery and Birth Outcomes

Delivery outcomes are another part of the picture with UFE and future pregnancies. Some women may have a greater need for cesarean delivery due to factors like placenta placement or uterine changes after embolisation. Conditions such as placenta previa or heavier bleeding after birth have also been noted more frequently in women post-UFE. However, these risks aren’t exclusive to UFE. Fibroids themselves can contribute to complex deliveries no matter the treatment path chosen.

UFE and Future Pregnancies: An Overview

Planning for parenthood after treating fibroids is a common concern, especially for women exploring UFE and future pregnancies. The procedure is not specifically a fertility practice, yet many women have successfully conceived post-procedure. 

UFE and Fertility: A Personal Perspective

Each case of UFE and future pregnancy is unique, results vary from person to person. Though UFE isn’t a fertility-enhancing procedure, preservation of fertility is usually observed. In fact, numerous studies indicate successful conception, either naturally or with fertility treatments, post-UFE. 

Determining If UFE is the Best Option for You

The answers to questions about UFE and future pregnancies are far from universal. UFE could be a fitting option if symptom relief is your priority while still hopeful for future children. Conversely, if your primary goal is having a baby, it is essential to explore all available treatments for the right fertility outcomes.

An open discussion with your doctor about UFE and conception is encouraged. A conversation regarding your medical history, future plans, and any previous fertility challenges will enable optimal decision-making. While conception after fibroid embolisation is possible, having realistic expectations and proper planning can greatly aid your journey to parenthood.

Embrace Your Reproductive Future with Confidence

Navigating life after UFE and its impact on future pregnancies can feel overwhelming, but the best decisions lead to empowered outcomes. At Minima Radiology, we specialise in providing expert guidance made for your unique circumstances and aspirations for motherhood. Our dedicated team is ready to discuss how UFE might match your reproductive goals, ensuring you have the knowledge and support needed for your personal path. Take the first step towards understanding your options and securing the future you envision. Connect with us today to begin this critical conversation.