Do You Need Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)?

Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths of muscle and connective tissue that develop within or on the walls of the uterus. These growths are extremely common among women of reproductive age. While many women may not experience symptoms, fibroids can sometimes cause significant discomfort and complications that interfere with daily life and reproductive health.

In India, studies estimate that 20–40% of women in their reproductive years have fibroids, and some research suggests that up to 77% may develop them at some point. Common symptoms include heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, urinary frequency, and lower back discomfort.

Traditionally, fibroids have been managed through surgical options like hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) or myomectomy (surgical removal of fibroids while preserving the uterus). While effective, both procedures are invasive and often involve long recovery times and potential complications.

Today, a modern, minimally invasive option—Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)—is transforming fibroid care for women. At RIVEA Vascular Institute, Hyderabad, Dr. Arjun Reddy, a leading Interventional Radiologist, performs UFE using the advanced Allia™ IGS 7 image-guided system. This technology allows for unmatched precision, safety, and comfort, offering women effective fibroid relief without surgery.

This article helps you recognize the key symptoms that may indicate you need UFE and explains how this procedure can restore your comfort, health, and quality of life.

How do fibroids affect the uterus?

Uterine fibroids vary in size, number, and location. They can be as small as a seed or grow large enough to distort the uterus. Their position within the uterine wall determines how they affect the body:

• Submucosal fibroids (beneath the uterine lining) often cause heavy menstrual bleeding.
• Intramural fibroids (within the uterine wall) can enlarge the uterus and cause pelvic pressure.
• Subserosal fibroids (on the outer surface of the uterus) may press on nearby organs such as the bladder or bowel.

It’s important to note that symptom severity depends more on location than size. Even a small fibroid can cause significant bleeding if it distorts the uterine lining, while a larger one might remain unnoticed if positioned outward. Recognizing the symptoms early allows for timely intervention often before surgery becomes necessary.

Key symptoms that indicate you might need Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)

Not all fibroids require treatment. However, when symptoms start to interfere with your daily life or overall health, it may be time to consider Uterine Fibroid Embolization. Listed below are the key warning signs that indicate you might benefit from this advanced procedure.

Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia)
One of the most common symptoms of fibroids is abnormally heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding. You may need to change pads or tampons every hour, pass large clots, or experience periods lasting longer than a week.

Such blood loss can lead to anemia, causing fatigue, weakness, and dizziness. UFE can significantly reduce bleeding by shrinking the fibroids and restoring normal blood flow within the uterus. Many women notice lighter, more regular cycles within a few months of treatment.

Pelvic pain or pressure
As fibroids grow, they can create a constant feeling of pressure or fullness in the lower abdomen. Some women describe it as carrying a weight inside or experiencing a dull, persistent ache. Larger fibroids may also press against nearby organs, worsening discomfort.

After UFE, as fibroids shrink, this pressure gradually eases, and normal pelvic comfort returns without the need for surgical removal.

Frequent urination or bladder pressure
Fibroids located near the bladder can cause frequent urination, urgency, or incomplete emptying. This happens when the uterus expands and presses against the bladder, reducing its capacity.

By cutting off the fibroid’s blood supply, UFE helps reduce uterine volume and relieves pressure on the bladder. Many patients report immediate improvement in urinary symptoms within weeks after treatment.

Constipation or bowel discomfort
Fibroids that press on the rectum can lead to constipation, bloating, or discomfort during bowel movements. Women may also feel a sensation of fullness even after eating small meals.

UFE reduces fibroid size, easing pressure on the digestive tract and improving normal bowel function.

Pain during intercourse (dyspareunia)
Fibroids growing near the cervix or deep within the pelvis can make sexual intercourse painful or uncomfortable. This can affect emotional well-being and relationships.

Because UFE targets the fibroid’s blood supply directly, it helps soften and shrink the fibroid tissue, restoring comfort in intimate relationships.

Lower back or leg pain
Large fibroids can press on nerves that extend into the lower back, hips, or legs, causing radiating pain or heaviness. This pain may worsen during menstruation or prolonged standing.

Once the fibroids shrink after UFE, the nerve pressure subsides, and mobility often improves significantly.

Abdominal enlargement or visible swelling
In some cases, multiple fibroids can cause the abdomen to enlarge or appear bloated, sometimes making a woman look pregnant.

After UFE, as fibroids lose their blood supply, they gradually shrink, leading to a flatter, more comfortable abdomen over time.

Fatigue and anemia
Chronic heavy bleeding from fibroids can lead to iron-deficiency anemia, resulting in symptoms like tiredness, pale skin, headaches, and shortness of breath.

By controlling bleeding, UFE not only helps prevent further blood loss but also allows the body to restore normal hemoglobin levels, helping women regain energy and vitality.

Infertility or difficulty conceiving
Some fibroids can interfere with fertility by distorting the uterine cavity or preventing proper embryo implantation. While UFE is not recommended for women planning immediate pregnancy, it can be a valuable option for those seeking symptom relief before fertility treatments or who do not wish to undergo major surgery.

Dr. Arjun Reddy evaluates each case carefully, using advanced imaging to ensure the best treatment approach based on fibroid size, number, and reproductive goals.

When is it time to see a specialist?

It’s time to consult a doctor if you experience:

• Periods that are consistently heavy or prolonged
• Persistent pelvic pain or pressure
• Fatigue or symptoms of anemia
• Urinary or bowel issues linked to pelvic pressure
• Pain that interferes with intimacy or daily activities

Early consultation with an interventional radiologist allows for accurate diagnosis using ultrasound or MRI. At RIVEA Vascular Institute, Dr. Arjun Reddy and his team conduct a comprehensive evaluation to determine whether UFE or another treatment is most appropriate for your condition.

Ignoring fibroid symptoms can lead to worsening discomfort, progressive anemia, and complications during pregnancy. Timely, minimally invasive treatment like UFE offers relief before these issues escalate.

Why is Uterine Fibroid Embolization the preferred choice for women in Hyderabad?

Hyderabad has become a center of excellence for advanced interventional radiology, with institutions like RIVEA Vascular Institute leading the way in minimally invasive care for women’s health.

Under the expertise of Dr. Arjun Reddy, a leading Interventional Radiologist in Hyderabad, UFE is performed with unmatched accuracy and safety, thanks to cutting-edge imaging systems such as the Allia™ IGS 7 from GE HealthCare.

This next-generation image-guided therapy platform allows Dr. Reddy to perform embolization with exceptional clarity and precision, using low radiation doses and real-time 3D imaging. The Allia IGS 7 enables:

• Flawless vascular navigation, reducing procedure time.
• Minimized radiation exposure for patient safety.
• Precise targeting of fibroid-feeding arteries while preserving healthy uterine tissue.
• Enhanced patient comfort and faster recovery.

Combined with Dr. Reddy’s expertise, this technology makes UFE a safer, faster, and more effective alternative to open surgery for fibroid treatment.

Additional advantages of undergoing UFE at RIVEA include:

• Day-care or short-stay procedure – most patients go home the same day.
• No large incisions or visible scars.
• Minimal discomfort and downtime.
• Quick return to normal life and work.

Together, these benefits make UFE one of the most patient-centered and technologically advanced options for fibroid care available in Hyderabad today.

Recognizing the symptoms of uterine fibroids early can make a significant difference in your comfort, health, and quality of life. If you’re experiencing heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, or pressure-related issues, you don’t have to live with the discomfort or face the challenges of major surgery.

Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) offers a proven, minimally invasive solution that shrinks fibroids, relieves symptoms, and preserves the uterus.

At RIVEA Vascular Institute, Dr. Arjun Reddy and his team combine advanced technology like the Allia™ IGS 7 with compassionate, personalized care to help women regain control over their health.

If fibroid symptoms are affecting your daily life, it may be time to explore whether UFE is right for you. Schedule a consultation at RIVEA Vascular Institute, Hyderabad, and take the first step toward lasting relief.