7 Myths About Uterine Fibroid Embolization, Debunked

Published On: June 4, 2025

Uterine fibroids affect the majority of women. As many as 80% of women have at least one fibroid before they turn 50, although not everyone has symptomatic fibroids.

For the women who do have symptoms, though, they can be brutal. Heavy and painful periods, cramping, bloating, constipation, pain during sex, and the resulting anemia from heavy flows are just a few symptoms. It’s downright exhausting.

The good news is that many treatment options are available for symptomatic fibroids. Here at Image Guided Surgery Center in Clinton, Maryland, Dr. Nordine Gaugau offers a minimally invasive treatment called uterine fibroid embolization to treat uterine fibroids.

Uterine fibroid embolization blocks the blood vessels that supply fibroids, causing them to shrink and symptoms to improve.

But with so much misinformation circulating, it can be hard to know what’s true. Let’s look at some of the most common myths — and the facts that debunk them.

Myth #1: Uterine fibroid embolization is experimental

Fact: Uterine fibroid embolization has been used for over 30 years, backed by a wealth of clinical research. It’s a well-established, minimally invasive alternative to surgery for treating fibroids.

Dr. Gaugau, a top interventional surgeon in Maryland and a featured medical expert on networks like CNN, regularly performs this procedure with excellent outcomes.

Myth #2: Embolization isn’t as effective as a hysterectomy

Fact: For many women, uterine fibroid embolization is just as effective at relieving fibroid symptoms like heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, and pressure — without removing the uterus. As your fibroid shrinks, you can expect results within a few weeks.

Myth #3: You can’t get pregnant after embolization

Fact: Uterine fibroid embolization is a uterus-sparing procedure. It’s not specifically a fertility treatment, but many women have had healthy pregnancies after embolization.

That’s especially true if your fibroid blocks your fallopian tubes (where conception takes place). As the fibroid shrinks, sperm may once again reach the fallopian tube to fertilize an egg.

If fertility is a concern, Dr. Gaugau can help you weigh your options.

Myth #4: Embolization requires a long hospital stay

Fact: Dr. Gaugau performs uterine fibroid embolization as an outpatient procedure, typically lasting less than 90 minutes. You can expect to go home the same day and return to normal activities within a week.

Myth #5: Recovery is just as painful as fibroid surgery

Fact: Uterine fibroid embolization is minimally invasive — no large incisions, sutures, or tissue removal.

During your procedure, Dr. Gaugau inserts a catheter near your hip to access the blood vessels that supply your fibroids. He inserts medical-grade beads that cut off the blood supply to your fibroid. Without that blood supply, your fibroids shrink.

Your recovery is generally much quicker and less painful than traditional surgical options. Some cramping and fatigue are common, but these symptoms usually improve in a few days.

Myth #6: Embolization is only for older women

Fact: Uterine fibroid embolization is a great option for women of various ages — especially those who want to avoid surgery or preserve their uterus. If you struggle with fibroids, age alone doesn’t disqualify you from this treatment.

Myth #7: Insurance never covers uterine fibroid embolization

Fact: Most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, cover uterine fibroid embolization when medically necessary. Our team can work with you to verify coverage and explain your benefits.

Get help for fibroids

If you’re tired of living with fibroid symptoms, Dr. Gaugau and the expert team at Image Guided Surgery Center can help. Call our office at 240-244-2302 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Gaugau, or send us a message online today.

References:

  • Pioneering fibroid treatment celebrates 30 years of changing women’s lives ● Pregnancy success and outcomes after uterine fibroid embolization: updated review of published literature – PMC
  • Uterine Fibroids | ACOG
  • Fibroids: More Common than You Think | Center for Women’s Health | OHSU