What To Expect with UFE: A Non-Surgical Fibroid Procedure

You may have been told you have uterine fibroids, common, non-cancerous growths that can cause heavy periods, pelvic pressure, or bloating during a routine pelvic exam. You may be relieved to know that surgery isn’t your only option if you’ve been advised to consider treatment. Uterine Fibroid Embolisation (UFE) is a highly effective non surgical fibroid treatment designed to shrink fibroids without removing the uterus.

Understanding the UFE procedure steps can help you feel welcome relief and prepared. This minimally invasive fibroid embolisation procedure works by blocking the blood flow to fibroids so they shrink naturally over time. In this article, we’ll walk you through what happens before, during, and after UFE, why many women prefer this approach, and how recovery typically progresses.

UFE offers a safe and empowering way to relieve fibroid symptoms while preserving your uterus and your long-term health with expert care.

What is UFE and the UFE Procedure Steps

UFE is a minimally invasive fibroid embolisation procedure that works by blocking the blood vessels supplying the growths. Once the blood flow is reduced, the fibroids shrink gradually, relieving symptoms like heavy bleeding and pelvic pressure.

UFE is a non surgical fibroid treatment that’s unlike surgical options such as myomectomy or hysterectomy, meaning no large incisions, shorter recovery times, and preservation of the uterus. Our UFE vs. Myomectomy vs. Hysterectomy guide compares treatment options in more depth.

Initial Assessment: Preparing for UFE

Your UFE journey starts with an initial consultation. During this visit, your doctor will:

Review your medical history and current symptoms
Perform imaging tests such as ultrasound or MRI to assess the size, number, and location of fibroids
Determine if UFE is the best non surgical fibroid treatment for your needs

Before the procedure, you may be asked to temporarily stop certain medications and avoid eating for a few hours. This preparation ensures safety and optimal results.

The UFE Procedure Steps

Here’s what to expect during the fibroid embolisation procedure:

Local Anaesthetic and Sedation—You remain awake but relaxed, with local anaesthetic and mild sedation for comfort.
A Tiny Entry Point—A small puncture in the wrist or groin is made. No large cuts or stitches are required.
Guided Imaging—A thin catheter is threaded through the artery to the vessels feeding the fibroids.
4. Blocking Blood Flow to Fibroids—Tiny particles are injected to block blood supply, causing fibroids to shrink gradually.

The procedure usually takes one to two hours, with most patients returning home the same day or after a short overnight stay.

Why Women Prefer UFE as a Non Surgical Fibroid Treatment

Many women are choosing UFE over surgery because it:

Preserves the uterus and fertility potential
Lowers heavy bleeding and pelvic pressure effectively
Requires no large incisions
Has shorter recovery time than traditional surgery
Can be performed safely in an outpatient or short-stay setting

As awareness of UFE grows, it is becoming the first-choice non surgical fibroid treatment for many women in South Africa and worldwide.

Recovery After UFE: What to Expect

Early Symptoms

Mild symptoms like these are normal within the first 24 hours:

Cramping or pelvic discomfort
Flu-like sensations
Temporary fatigue

These are signs the fibroids are losing their blood supply.

Progress and Symptom Relief

Most women notice improvement within the first month:

Lighter periods
Minimal pelvic pressure and bloating
Less frequent urination

Fibroid shrinkage continues for six months or longer, with gradual symptom relief.

Recovery Tips

To support your healing:

Prioritise rest in the first few days
Stay hydrated
Avoid strenuous activities
Take prescribed pain relief
Gradually resume gentle walking
Expect light spotting for several weeks

Follow-Up Care

A follow-up ultrasound or MRI is typically scheduled a few months post-procedure to track fibroid shrinkage and monitor recovery.

FAQs About UFE and Fibroid Treatment

Can adenomyosis be treated with UFE?

Yes. UFE can treat adenomyosis by decreasing blood flow to the affected tissue, helping relieve heavy bleeding and pelvic pain.

Can UFE help with adenomyosis?

Absolutely. It is a minimally invasive approach that often improves symptoms without requiring surgery.

Can adenomyosis be treated with embolisation?

Yes. Embolisation is effective for managing adenomyosis in women seeking a uterus-preserving option.

What is the most effective treatment for adenomyosis?

The best treatment depends on your symptoms and fertility goals. Options include hormonal therapy, UFE, or, in severe cases, hysterectomy. UFE is ideal for symptom relief without removing the uterus.

What are the side effects of UFE for adenomyosis?

Common side effects include cramping, mild fever, and fatigue. Rare risks include infection or early menopause, but these are significantly less common than with surgery.

Long-Term Results and Rare Risks

UFE is effective for most women, with low complication rates. Rare risks include infection or early menopause. Compared with surgery, UFE is less invasive, requires less recovery time, and allows many women to preserve fertility.

Conclusion: Take Control of Your Uterine Health

Choosing UFE as a non surgical fibroid treatment can transform your health and comfort. This minimally invasive fibroid embolisation procedure offers symptom relief while preserving your uterus, making it an ideal choice for women seeking an effective, low-risk option.

Connect with our experienced radiology team at Minima Radiology to discuss your personalised treatment plan and take the first step toward freedom from fibroid symptoms.