What to Expect from Uterine Artery Embolisation for Uterine Fibroids

The team reviews your symptoms, scans, medicines, allergies and pregnancy plans. A radiologist numbs the skin and passes a thin catheter through an artery to the arteries supplying the uterus. Tiny particles are delivered to reduce blood flow to the fibroids. You may notice pressure or warmth, and pain relief and sedation can be discussed.

Fibroids can contribute to heavy periods, pressure or pelvic pain. The fibroids gradually shrink after their blood supply is reduced, so bleeding or pressure symptoms may change over follow-up rather than immediately. Your clinician will discuss alternatives if the result does not meet your needs.

Follow instructions about fasting and medicines, and tell the team about allergies, infection symptoms or a possible pregnancy. Arrange a lift home and help with meals or childcare. After treatment, rest, drink fluids as advised and use prescribed pain relief. Keep the catheter entry site clean, and avoid heavy exertion until cleared.

Seek urgent advice for severe pain that is not controlled, heavy vaginal bleeding, fainting, persistent vomiting, fever or chills, foul-smelling discharge, or increasing redness, swelling or bleeding at the catheter site. A cold, pale or numb leg also needs immediate assessment.

Ask which fibroids are being treated, how the procedure may affect future pregnancy, what pain plan you will use, when you can return to work and how follow-up will check the response.