How quickly does uterine artery embolisation relieve heavy periods?

The procedure blocks blood flow to fibroids, so the change in bleeding is usually gradual rather than immediate. Your first period may be different from usual while the uterus recovers, and some people notice a clearer reduction over the following cycles. The result depends on the size, number and position of fibroids, as well as other causes of bleeding.

Cramping, tiredness and light bleeding or discharge can occur after the procedure. These recovery symptoms do not show whether the treatment has worked. Keep a simple record of pad or tampon changes, flooding, clots and days of bleeding so you can describe the trend accurately.

Follow the discharge plan for pain relief and activity, and attend the follow-up arranged by your interventional radiology or gynaecology team. Take prescribed medicines as directed and ask before adding anti-inflammatory medicines, especially if you have stomach, kidney or bleeding problems.

If heavy bleeding continues after the expected recovery period, contact the treating team rather than assuming the procedure has failed. They can check for fibroid response, anaemia or another source of bleeding. Read more about [Heavy Periods] and [Uterine Artery Embolisation].

Seek urgent medical help for bleeding that rapidly soaks through pads, fainting, severe or worsening abdominal pain, fever, repeated vomiting, breathlessness or a foul-smelling discharge. These symptoms can signal a complication or significant blood loss and need prompt assessment.

Ask when your team expects your next period, how they will assess fibroid shrinkage, when blood tests for anaemia are needed, and which symptoms should prompt an urgent call.