What should you know about UAE for adenomyosis?

Adenomyosis occurs when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows into the muscular wall of the uterus. It can cause heavy periods, painful periods and pelvic pain. UAE is a minimally invasive procedure in which a clinician guides a thin catheter into arteries supplying the uterus, then places small particles to reduce that blood flow. The aim is to shrink or quiet the areas affected by adenomyosis while keeping the uterus in place. It is different from a hysterectomy, which removes the uterus, and it may not suit someone planning a future pregnancy.

A specialist assessment usually considers your symptoms, examination findings and imaging, along with your pregnancy plans and other treatments. Ask how UAE compares with a hormonal coil, medicines, endometrial ablation or surgery for your situation. After the procedure, cramping, tiredness, nausea or a low fever can occur as the uterus responds. Follow the discharge advice, take prescribed pain relief, keep the access site clean and attend follow-up. Seek personalised advice before stopping hormonal treatment or trying to conceive.

Contact the treating team promptly for worsening pain, persistent fever, heavy bleeding, unpleasant-smelling discharge, faintness or increasing redness and swelling where the catheter entered. Seek urgent help for severe pain with collapse, breathing difficulty or sudden heavy bleeding. Symptoms of adenomyosis deserve review even when they are familiar, because treatment choices depend on their pattern and effect on daily life.

Ask: How certain is the diagnosis? What improvement is realistic for my bleeding and pain? How could UAE affect fertility or a future pregnancy? What alternatives fit my goals? Which symptoms after the procedure should trigger a call?