Does uterine artery embolisation help with heavy periods?

The procedure blocks selected blood vessels supplying uterine fibroids. Reduced blood flow can make fibroids shrink, which may ease bleeding, pressure and related symptoms. Heavy periods have other possible causes, so embolisation is not suitable for every pattern of bleeding. Imaging and a gynaecology assessment help identify the likely source.

The procedure is performed through a small catheter, usually by an interventional radiology team. Cramping, nausea, tiredness and vaginal discharge can occur during recovery. Your team will explain expected recovery and warning signs before you leave.

Tell your clinician how often you change protection, whether bleeding disrupts daily life, and whether you have symptoms of anaemia such as fatigue or breathlessness. Discuss medicines, other procedures and surgery alongside embolisation. Mention any wish for future pregnancy because it can influence the treatment discussion.

Seek urgent care for bleeding that makes you faint or markedly weak, severe pain that is not controlled, fever, or a foul-smelling discharge after the procedure. Heavy bleeding with pregnancy symptoms also needs prompt assessment.

Ask whether fibroids explain the bleeding, what imaging shows, how embolisation compares with alternatives, how fertility plans affect the choice, and which recovery symptoms require a call.