Do I Need to Get Several Uterine Fibroid Embolization Treatments? 

When uterine fibroids become a problem, our team at Minimally Invasive Medical Group in Lake Forest, Mission Viejo, and Irvine, California, can help your body shrink and shed them with a nonsurgical procedure called uterine fibroid embolization (UFE). 

Sometimes, one treatment is all it takes to eliminate the problematic fibroids, but not always. In this month’s blog post, our experts explain why some people may need additional procedures and the factors impacting the success of UFE.

Understanding uterine fibroid embolization

Fibroids are non-cancerous growths that can cause heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and pressure on the bladder or bowel. 

Uterine fibroid embolization (also called uterine artery embolization) is a nonsurgical treatment for uterine fibroids. 

During a UFE procedure, our specialist inserts a small catheter into a blood vessel (usually in your wrist or groin) and guides it to the arteries supplying blood to the fibroids. Then, tiny particles injected into the catheter block blood flow to the fibroid tissue, causing the fibroids to gradually shrink.

It’s a great alternative to surgical options like hysterectomy and myomectomy due to its shorter recovery time and lower risk of complications.

Why might I need another UFE procedure?

While UFE is highly effective, sometimes additional treatment may be needed. According to research, up to 10% of patients may require a second embolization or different interventions to resolve recurring or persistent symptoms. 

Here are some factors that can influence whether you need repeat treatments.

1. Number and size of fibroids

UFE is designed to treat multiple fibroids simultaneously, regardless of their size. However, larger or more numerous fibroids may require follow-up treatments if your symptoms persist or if some fibroids don’t shrink sufficiently.

2. Fibroid regrowth

Although UFE effectively shrinks existing fibroids, it doesn’t prevent new fibroids from forming. If you’re young or have a family history of fibroids, you may experience new fibroid growth over time.

3. Location of fibroids

The fibroid location can impact the procedure’s success. Submucosal fibroids growing inside the uterine cavity or fibroids located near vital blood vessels may require additional procedures if the first embolization doesn’t work completely.

4. The body’s response to treatment

Each person’s body responds differently to UFE. While the procedure has a 90% success rate, some may have partial improvement and require further intervention.

What to expect from UFE 

People who undergo UFE typically notice an improvement in symptoms within a few weeks, with continued fibroid shrinkage over the following 6-12 months. Here’s what to expect after the procedure:

Relief of symptoms

UFE often results in reduced menstrual bleeding, less pelvic pain, and decreased symptoms.

Improved quality of life

You can expect to return to your daily activities quickly.

Fewer complications

Compared to surgical treatments, UFE has a lower risk of infection, blood loss, and scarring.

Signs you might need further treatment 

If you’ve previously undergone UFE and are now experiencing persistent or returning symptoms, call us. Our Minimally Invasive Medical Group team can thoroughly evaluate your case to determine whether a repeat embolization or a different treatment option may be appropriate.

If you’re considering UFE for the first time or would like to learn more about managing your fibroids, call Minimally Invasive Medical Group in Lake Forest, Mission Viejo, and Irvine, California, or book an appointment online.