Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), or enlargement of the prostate, is a common condition affecting men as they age. Symptoms such as frequent urination, weak urine flow, and difficulty starting or stopping urination can significantly impact quality of life. Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) has emerged as a minimally invasive, image-guided treatment that effectively relieves these urinary symptoms without the need for traditional surgery.

While PAE is generally safe and performed on an outpatient basis, proper preparation and post-procedure care are critical to maximizing its effectiveness and minimizing potential complications. This blog will guide you through essential pre- and post-procedure tips to ensure a smooth and successful PAE experience.

Before your PAE procedure

1. Schedule a comprehensive consultation and evaluation

The first step in preparing for PAE is a detailed consultation with your interventional radiologist. During this visit, your doctor will review your medical history, current medications, and previous imaging studies. It is important to discuss any chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, or heart disease, as these can influence the procedure and recovery.

Your doctor may recommend additional imaging studies to map the arteries supplying your prostate. These tests may include:

• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Provides detailed images of the prostate and surrounding tissues, helping assess the size and anatomy of your gland.
• Ultrasound: Offers a non-invasive evaluation of prostate size, structure, and blood flow.
• CT Angiography: Used to identify the precise blood vessels that will be targeted during embolization.

This evaluation ensures your interventional radiologist can plan a safe, effective approach tailored to your anatomy and medical needs.

2. Review your medications

Certain medications can affect bleeding, clotting, or sedation during PAE. It is crucial to provide a complete list of medications, including:

• Blood thinners (e.g., aspirin, warfarin)
• Diabetes medications
• Herbal supplements and vitamins

Your doctor may advise temporarily stopping or adjusting some medications to reduce risks. For example, blood thinners may need to be paused a few days before the procedure to prevent excessive bleeding, while diabetes medications may require dose adjustments if fasting is needed.

3. Fasting and hydration

Most PAE procedures require mild sedation, meaning you’ll need to fast for several hours beforehand. Your doctor will provide clear instructions on when to stop eating and drinking. Proper fasting helps reduce the risk of complications such as nausea or aspiration during sedation.

At the same time, maintaining hydration in the days leading up to the procedure supports healthy kidney function and helps your body manage the contrast dye used during imaging. Unless otherwise advised, drink water in moderation prior to fasting.

4. Arrange transportation

Since sedation can impair your coordination and judgment temporarily, you will not be able to drive yourself home after PAE. Arrange for a friend or family member to provide transportation. This also ensures you have support during the first 24 hours of recovery, especially if you experience mild discomfort or fatigue.

After your PAE procedure

1. Expect mild discomfort

It is normal to experience temporary side effects following PAE. These may include:

• Mild pelvic pain or cramping
• Burning sensation during urination
• Fatigue or low energy

These symptoms typically last a few days and can be managed with prescribed pain relief or anti-inflammatory medications. Understanding what to expect helps reduce anxiety and allows you to manage your recovery effectively.

2. Stay hydrated

Drinking plenty of fluids is crucial after PAE. Hydration serves several purposes:

• Flushes out the contrast dye used during the procedure
• Supports healthy urinary flow
• Helps prevent dehydration-related discomfort

Water is ideal, and your doctor may provide additional recommendations on fluid intake. Avoid alcohol and caffeinated beverages for a few days, as they can irritate the bladder and slow recovery.

3. Avoid strenuous activity

After PAE, your body needs time to heal and adjust to changes in blood flow to the prostate. For the first few days, avoid:

• Heavy lifting
• Intense physical exercise
• Strenuous activity that increases abdominal pressure

Light walking is generally encouraged, as it promotes circulation and reduces the risk of blood clots. Gradually return to normal activities based on your doctor’s guidance.

4. Watch for unusual symptoms

While PAE is generally safe, it is important to monitor your body for warning signs and contact your care team promptly if you notice:

• Persistent or worsening pelvic pain
• Fever or chills
• Difficulty urinating or urinary retention
• Signs of infection at the catheter insertion site

Early intervention ensures that any complications are managed quickly, keeping your recovery on track.

5. Follow-up visits

A follow-up appointment is an essential part of PAE care. During this visit, your doctor will:

• Evaluate symptom improvement
• Assess prostate size and blood flow
• Adjust medications if needed

Most patients notice gradual improvement over several weeks. Your doctor may also provide lifestyle recommendations to optimize urinary health and prevent recurrence of symptoms.

How to optimize your recovery

In addition to the above, consider these practical measures to support a smooth recovery:

• Balanced diet: Focus on fiber-rich foods and adequate nutrition to maintain energy and bowel health.
• Avoid smoking: Tobacco can impair circulation and delay healing.
• Manage comorbidities: Conditions such as diabetes or hypertension should be well-controlled during recovery.
• Pelvic floor exercises: Gentle exercises can support bladder control and improve urinary symptoms over time.

By integrating these habits, you can enhance the benefits of PAE and maintain long-term prostate health.

How RIVEA can help with your Benign Prostate Hyperplasia recovery journey

When planning your Prostatic Artery Embolization for BPH in Hyderabad, the choice of treatment center plays a crucial role in ensuring safety, precision, and effective recovery. At RIVEA Vascular Institute, patients benefit from the guidance of Dr. Arjun Reddy, Co-Founder and Director, and one of the first specialists in Hyderabad to introduce PAE to the city. His international training and extensive experience have established RIVEA as a leader in advanced, minimally invasive prostate care.

Men across Hyderabad trust RIVEA for its combination of proven results, personalized care, and focus on safety. The institute provides comprehensive support throughout every stage of the PAE journey—from thorough pre-procedure evaluation to careful post-procedure monitoring and follow-up.

With access to state-of-the-art imaging, highly skilled interventional radiologists, and modern facilities, every patient receives tailored treatment designed for optimal outcomes and smooth recovery.

For those seeking long-lasting relief from urinary symptoms, RIVEA delivers precise interventions and compassionate care, making it a trusted destination for non-surgical BPH treatment in Hyderabad.