UFE Recovery: What to Expect
Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) is a nonsurgical treatment for uterine fibroids. It works by cutting off the blood supply to your fibroids — but what happens afterward? That’s what we cover here. Read on to learn what to expect after UFE.
You’ve scheduled your uterine fibroid embolization (UFE), but what happens afterward? UFE treats uterine fibroids without surgery. While you may be excited about the prospects of freedom from fibroid symptoms, you need to know how to prepare for your recovery.
Here at The Fibroid Center at Image Guided Surgery in Clinton, Maryland, Dr. Nordine Gaugau wants you to feel informed, supported, and confident every step of the way, including after your procedure.
UFE is a minimally invasive treatment that shrinks fibroids by cutting off their blood supply. Most women go home the same day and recover much faster than they would after surgery like a hysterectomy or myomectomy.
Here’s what you can expect in the days and weeks after UFE.
What to expect in the first few days
After your procedure, it’s normal to feel cramping, similar to menstrual cramps. While cramping may be intense on the first day after UFE, it dissipates over the next few days.
Some women may also experience flu-like symptoms such as:
● Fatigue
● Mild nausea
● Low-grade fever
These symptoms are part of what’s called post-embolization syndrome (PES), and they typically resolve within 10 days. PES affects 4%-34% of women. Dr. Gaugau may prescribe pain medication and anti-nausea medication to help you stay comfortable.
Even if you don’t experience post-embolization syndrome, plan to rest at home and take it easy for a few days. To help prepare, stock your freezer or fridge with ready-to-go meals before your procedure.
What to expect within the first two weeks
Most women return to light activities within a week. You may notice:
● Less bleeding and pelvic pressure
● Gradual shrinkage of fibroids over 3-6 months
● Improved energy and comfort
Avoid heavy lifting and intense exercise for about 1-2 weeks or until Dr. Gaugau gives you the all clear.
What to expect in the following months
You should notice symptom improvement from UFE at around 3 months, with more significant results typically seen within 4-5 months after the procedure.
Most people feel measurable relief from heavy bleeding and bulk-related symptoms like pelvic pressure and urinary frequency within that window.
At follow-up appointments here at The Fibroid Center, we check your progress and make sure your fibroids shrink as expected.
Fibroid relief in Clinton, Maryland
Dr. Gaugau specializes in uterine fibroid embolization so you can get back to life faster and with less discomfort. If you’re planning a UFE or have already had one, we’re here to guide your recovery and answer any questions.
To learn more about UFE or talk to our expert team at The Fibroid Center at Image Guided Surgery, call us at 240-244-2302 or message us online today.
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