Uterine Fibroid Embolization: What to Expect

You've been grappling with the symptoms for a while now: the relentless cramps, heavy periods, and a constant feeling of pressure in your lower abdomen. Your doctor recommended uterine fibroid embolization as a solution for you — but what exactly should you expect from the procedure?

You’re in the right place. Our Vascular & Interventional Specialists team specializes in uterine fibroid embolization in Miami, Florida. This minimally invasive procedure shrinks problematic fibroids without requiring abdominal incisions.

Uterine fibroid embolization could be the answer you’ve been seeking, and here’s what you can expect during and after the procedure.

How uterine fibroid embolization works

Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths in your uterus. They’re common, and up to half of women have them during their reproductive years. While fibroids don’t always cause symptoms, they can be the reason behind pelvic pain, heavy periods, and other issues.

Uterine fibroid embolization is a minimally invasive procedure that shrinks fibroids by blocking the blood vessels that supply them with nutrients. Unlike traditional surgery, uterine fibroid embolization doesn't require any incisions in your abdomen. 

Instead, we insert a tiny catheter into the artery supplying blood to your fibroids. We inject tiny particles through the catheter to block blood flow, which makes the fibroids shrink over time.

What to expect during uterine fibroid embolization

On the day of your procedure, you'll arrive at the clinic, and our team will be here to guide you through the process and answer any last-minute questions. Once you're settled in, we administer anesthesia to make sure you're comfortable throughout the procedure.

We insert the catheter, and you may feel a slight warmth or flushing sensation in the artery. This sensation is normal and should subside quickly. We closely monitor your vital signs throughout the procedure to ensure everything is proceeding smoothly.

The actual embolization process typically takes around one to two hours, depending on the size and number of fibroids we’re treating. Once it's over, we move you to a recovery area where you'll rest for a few hours under observation.

What to expect after uterine fibroid embolization

Recovery from uterine fibroid embolization can take one to two weeks. Common side effects include abdominal cramping that's similar to menstrual cramps, as well as nausea and fatigue. These symptoms should gradually improve over the next week as your body adjusts to the changes that are taking place.

We give you post-procedure instructions, and following them carefully helps you have a smooth recovery. Usually, we recommend taking it easy for a few days and avoiding strenuous activity until you're feeling back to normal. 

Your fibroids will shrink over the coming months, and you'll begin to notice the effects of the procedure. Many women experience significant relief from their symptoms, including decreased menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and pressure relief, and improved quality of life.

If you’re struggling with painful fibroid symptoms, uterine fibroid embolization could be a good option for you. Learn more about it with a personalized consultation at Vascular & Interventional Specialists. Call us at 305-230-4664 or request an appointment online now.