Table of Contents
- What is uterine fibroid embolization?
- Who is a candidate for UFE?
- How effective is UFE?
- What is the recovery time after UFE?
- What are the risks and side effects?
- Will UFE affect my fertility?
- How does UFE compare with surgery?
- What does UFE cost in Delhi?
- Where can I get UFE in Delhi?
- Can UFE treat other conditions?
What is uterine fibroid embolization?
Uterine fibroid embolization is a minimally invasive procedure performed by an interventional radiologist. The doctor inserts a small catheter into the femoral artery through a tiny puncture in the groin. Guided by imaging, the catheter is moved to the arteries supplying the fibroid, and tiny plastic particles are injected to block blood flow. Without a blood supply, the fibroid shrinks, and symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain and pressure gradually improve. Because the procedure does not involve removing tissue through open surgery, it preserves the uterus and leaves only a small scar. For a step‑by‑step description of the procedure, see our article on what is UFE.
Who is a candidate for UFE?
UFE is generally recommended for women with symptomatic fibroids who want to avoid major surgery and preserve their uterus. Candidates should have fibroids that are supplied by blood vessels accessible to the radiologist. However, the procedure is not suitable for every type of fibroid. Submucosal fibroids located just beneath the uterine lining or pedunculated fibroids on a stalk may not respond well. A pelvic MRI or ultrasound helps determine whether UFE is appropriate.
How effective is UFE?
UFE has been shown to relieve symptoms in eight to nine out of ten women. In clinical studies, most patients report significant reductions in bleeding and pelvic discomfort. About twenty percent may require repeat treatment or another intervention within the first few years. The likelihood of needing another procedure depends on the size and number of fibroids, their location and whether new fibroids develop.
What is the recovery time after UFE?
The procedure usually takes one or two hours. Afterward, patients rest in the hospital for eight to twelve hours to allow the puncture in the artery to seal. Most women go home the next day. Some experience cramping similar to menstrual cramps, fatigue or low‑grade fever during the first few days. Many return to normal activities within a week. Over the next several months, the fibroids continue to shrink and symptoms steadily improve.
What are the risks and side effects?
As with any medical procedure, UFE carries some risks. Common side effects include cramping abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and a mild fever that usually resolve within a few days. Serious complications are rare but may include infection, bleeding at the puncture site or problems related to the contrast dye. There is also a small risk that the particles could block blood flow to the ovaries or other organs, although this is uncommon. Your doctor will discuss potential risks and help you decide whether UFE is a safe option. For a complete list of risks and how we minimize them at our clinic, see our article on UFE risks and safety.
Will UFE affect my fertility?
Because UFE preserves the uterus, many women hope to maintain fertility after the procedure. Research on fertility outcomes after UFE is mixed; some women conceive and carry pregnancies successfully, while others may experience difficulties. Factors that influence fertility include age, fibroid size and pre‑existing fertility issues. Women who wish to become pregnant should discuss options with both a gynecologist and an interventional radiologist. You can learn more about fertility considerations in our post on UFE and fertility.
How does UFE compare with surgery?
Compared to surgery, UFE is less invasive, does not require a large incision and offers shorter recovery. It also allows women to keep their uterus. Surgery, such as myomectomy or hysterectomy, removes fibroids or the entire uterus and may be necessary for very large or atypically located fibroids. However, surgery involves general anesthesia, longer hospitalization and more recovery time. In addition, hysterectomy ends a woman’s ability to bear children. Our detailed comparison of UFE and surgical options can be found in the article UFE vs hysterectomy.
What does Uterine Fibroid Treatment cost in Delhi?
The cost of UFE varies depending on the number and size of fibroids, the complexity of the procedure, hospital facilities and the expertise of the medical team. Because UFE is performed as a day care procedure, the overall cost may be lower than major surgery, which includes operating room and hospital stay expenses. For a personalized estimate, schedule a consultation with our clinic. For general guidance on the factors that influence pricing, consider scheduling a consultation with Dr. Parul Garg.
Where can I get UFE in Delhi?
UFE is available at specialized interventional radiology centers and hospitals in Delhi. It is important to choose a clinic with experienced doctors and modern equipment. Dr. Parul Garg and her team provide UFE and other minimally invasive procedures in Delhi. We invite you to book an appointment to discuss your symptoms and learn whether UFE is right for you. Visit our contact page to schedule a consultation.
Can UFE treat other conditions?
UFE is primarily used to treat uterine fibroids, but it has been successfully applied to other gynecological and pelvic conditions. These include adenomyosis, a disorder where the inner lining of the uterus grows into the muscular wall, and pelvic congestion syndrome, a condition caused by enlarged veins in the pelvis. In each case, the goal is to block blood supply to the problematic tissue, relieving pain and pressure.
Conclusion
Uterine fibroid embolization offers an effective, minimally invasive alternative to traditional surgery for many women with symptomatic fibroids. Understanding who qualifies for UFE, how it works, and what to expect during recovery can help you make an informed decision. If you are considering fibroid treatment in Delhi, we encourage you to explore our related articles linked throughout this FAQ and schedule a consultation to discuss your options with our experienced team.