Can Fibroid Pain Return After Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)?

Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that form in your uterus. They’re widespread, with about half of all women developing fibroids by age 50.

Fibroids don’t always cause symptoms. In fact, you could have one without even knowing it. But for some women, uterine fibroids cause symptoms like heavy menstrual periods, pelvic pain, and urinary problems.

The good news? You have fibroid treatment options. Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) is a minimally invasive procedure with success rates of up to 85%. Our team at Vascular & Interventional Specialists offers this advanced treatment in Miami, Florida, and we’re here to help you decide if it’s right for you.

Let's explore UFE, when it's recommended, and the possibility of recurring fibroid pain after treatment.

Understanding uterine fibroid embolization (UFE)

UFE targets fibroids directly without the need for major surgery. Traditional procedures, like hysterectomy and myomectomy, involve removing your uterus or the fibroids through a large incision. Instead, UFE seeks to shrink the fibroids by cutting off their blood supply.

During the procedure, we insert a small catheter into the arteries that supply blood to your fibroids. We inject small particles to block blood flow, which eventually shrinks the fibroids and alleviates your symptoms.

When to consider UFE

UFE is a good treatment option for many women with painful fibroids, especially if they hope to avoid more invasive surgical procedures. Our team offers comprehensive evaluations to help you make an educated decision.

We review your medical history, fibroid symptoms, and the characteristics of your fibroids. We may recommend UFE if you’re bothered by fibroid symptoms like:

• Heavy menstrual bleeding
• Bleeding between periods
• Pelvic pain
• Lower back pain
• Abdominal pressure
• Frequent urination
• Pain with sex
• Fertility issues

Remember, not all fibroids cause symptoms. If you have an asymptomatic fibroid, it may not require treatment at all. However, UFE can significantly improve your quality of life if you experience fibroid-related symptoms.

What to expect after UFE

After UFE, your fibroids gradually shrink. As they get smaller, your symptoms begin to fade. Most women experience significant relief from fibroid-related symptoms, and the procedure's success rate in alleviating symptoms is high. 

But one of the most common questions is: “Can my fibroid pain return after UFE?”

Will fibroid pain return?

UFE usually delivers long-term relief from fibroid symptoms. But there is a slight possibility that fibroid-related symptoms, including pain, might recur.

Factors contributing to symptom recurrence vary from patient to patient, and we can discuss these factors with you. For example, UFE might be less effective for larger fibroids or those located in certain positions in your uterus.

It’s also possible that new fibroids could develop, causing similar symptoms to resurface. However, recurrence isn’t guaranteed — and it’s generally less common after UFE than after surgical options like myomectomy.

After UFE, we recommend regular follow-up appointments to monitor any changes in fibroid size or symptoms. We track your progress and symptoms and work with you to maintain your best possible health.

UFE has revolutionized treating symptomatic fibroids, offering a less invasive alternative to traditional surgeries. It provides significant relief from pain and other symptoms and could be a good option for you.

If you’re experiencing painful fibroid symptoms, schedule a UFE consultation at Vascular & Interventional Specialists to learn more. Call our office at 305-230-4664 or request an appointment online now.