Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) has become one of the most important advances in women’s health care, especially for those who want relief from fibroid symptoms without major surgery. For patients in India, access to RIVEA’s advanced Uterine Fibroid Embolization for fibroid treatment in Hyderabad has made it easier than ever to choose a uterus-sparing, minimally invasive option.

If you’ve already read about what UFE is and how the UFE procedure works, the next step is understanding what life looks like after the treatment. This article explores what to expect in the months and years following UFE, how it affects fertility, how it compares with other treatment options, what recovery looks like in detail, and clears up some of the most common myths and misconceptions surrounding the procedure.

What to Expect 6–12 Months Post-Procedure?

UFE works by cutting off the blood supply to fibroids, which causes them to shrink gradually over time. Unlike surgery, where fibroids are physically removed, embolization relies on this natural shrinkage process to bring relief. Women choosing non-surgical fibroid removal often report significant improvement within the first year. Studies show that most women experience a 40–60% reduction in fibroid volume within six to twelve months after the procedure. While fibroids often do not disappear completely, their reduced size typically translates into marked improvement in quality of life.

The timeline for symptom improvement varies. Heavy menstrual bleeding is usually the first to improve, often within the first one to three months. Many women notice that their periods are lighter as early as their first cycle after UFE. Pelvic pressure, bloating, and urinary frequency take longer, as these symptoms are related to the bulk of the fibroids pressing on surrounding structures. These issues typically improve over three to six months as the fibroids continue to shrink. Pain relief often follows a similar course, with most women reporting steady improvement by the half-year mark. By the end of the first year, over 85–90% of women report significant relief from the symptoms that led them to seek treatment.

Late complications are rare but can occur. In some cases, fibroids—especially those growing close to the uterine lining—may break down and pass through the vagina. About 10–15% of women may experience persistent or recurrent symptoms, requiring either repeat embolization or a different treatment within five years. For women approaching menopause, there is a small risk of early menopause if the ovarian blood supply is unintentionally affected during the procedure.

Follow-up care plays a crucial role in ensuring the success of UFE. Most women have their first review within one to two weeks of the procedure, mainly to check pain control and recovery. A more detailed evaluation usually takes place around three months, sometimes including imaging to measure how much the fibroids have shrunk. Additional follow-ups are typically scheduled at six and twelve months to confirm ongoing shrinkage and symptom resolution. After that, yearly reviews are recommended if symptoms return or new fibroids appear.

Fertility and Pregnancy After Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)

One of the most common concerns about UFE is its effect on fertility. The procedure is not designed as a fertility treatment, but that does not mean it eliminates the chance of pregnancy. The main concern is that blocking uterine arteries could compromise the uterine lining or affect ovarian function.

Research has shown that pregnancy after UFE is possible. Hundreds of successful pregnancies have been documented worldwide, and many women have gone on to deliver healthy babies. However, studies suggest that there may be a slightly higher risk of miscarriage, preterm birth, or placental problems compared to women without fibroids. When compared with myomectomy—the surgical removal of fibroids—UFE has less data supporting its role in fertility preservation, which is why myomectomy is generally the first-line option for women whose main priority is future pregnancy.

Alternatives if pregnancy is strongly desired:

Myomectomy: Best studied for women planning pregnancy, especially for large fibroids.

Medical therapy: Temporarily shrinks fibroids but usually not suitable as a long-term fertility solution.

In vitro fertilization (IVF) with fibroid management: Sometimes recommended depending on fibroid size/location.

If you do conceive after UFE:

• Your obstetrician may recommend closer monitoring of the placenta and fetal growth.
• Delivery planning may depend on uterine health and fibroid location.
• Make sure to discuss your fibroid history early with their pregnancy care team.

Comparing Treatment Options: UFE vs Myomectomy vs Hysterectomy vs Newer Methods

When deciding on fibroid treatment, women often compare UFE with other options. Here’s how they stack up:

Managing Recovery: Tips, Timeline, What’s Normal & What’s Not

Recovery timeline

• Days 1–3: Cramping and pelvic pain are common; pain meds and rest are essential.
• Week 1: Fatigue, mild fever, and vaginal discharge may occur. This is part of “post-embolization syndrome.”
• Weeks 2–3: Most women return to work and normal daily activity.
• Months 1–3: Periods begin to lighten, pain improves.
• 6–12 months: Maximal fibroid shrinkage and symptom relief.

Pain management, diet, and activity

• Use prescribed anti-inflammatory medications.
• Stay hydrated and eat fiber-rich foods to prevent constipation (opioids can slow bowel movement).
• Light walking is encouraged; avoid strenuous exercise for 1–2 weeks.

When to call the doctor

• Fever above 101°F (38.3°C).
• Heavy bleeding (soaking >2 pads/hour).
• Severe abdominal pain not relieved by medication.
• Foul-smelling vaginal discharge (possible infection).

Lifestyle changes that help

• Maintaining a healthy weight and balanced diet can reduce fibroid growth risk.
• Regular exercise supports circulation and recovery.
• Managing stress helps regulate menstrual cycles.

Myths, Misconceptions, and FAQs About UFE

Despite its proven track record, UFE is still surrounded by myths. One common misconception is that UFE always ruins fertility. This is not true. While it is not the primary fertility-preserving treatment, many women conceive after UFE and deliver healthy babies. Another myth is that fibroids will never return once treated with UFE. In reality, while embolized fibroids usually do not regrow, new fibroids can develop, especially in younger women.

Some women fear that UFE is more painful than surgery. In fact, while cramping can be intense for the first few days, recovery is much faster and easier than with major surgery. Another misconception is that UFE is experimental. On the contrary, the procedure has been performed for over 25 years, with thousands of cases documented worldwide and strong clinical evidence supporting its safety and effectiveness.

Finally, it is important to recognize that UFE is not for everyone. Very large fibroids, suspicion of cancer, or women whose primary goal is pregnancy may be better candidates for alternative treatments. Consulting a uterine fibroid embolization specialist helps determine whether UFE is the right choice or if another approach would be better.

Choose RIVEA for Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)

For women who want to preserve their uterus, avoid major surgery, and find lasting relief, uterine fibroid embolization at RIVEA Hyderabad offers a safe, advanced, and minimally invasive solution.

At RIVEA, care is led by Dr. Arjun Reddy, widely regarded as one of the best interventional radiologists in South India, with extensive expertise in complex fibroid cases. Our center is equipped with cutting-edge technology, including the Allia IGS 7 system, which ensures unmatched precision and safety during every procedure.

By choosing RIVEA, patients are not only consulting a trusted uterine fibroid embolization specialist in Hyderabad but are also gaining access to world-class care, advanced imaging, and the most modern techniques for non-surgical fibroid removal. This combination makes RIVEA the destination for the best fibroid treatment in Hyderabad, offering a safe, effective path toward long-term relief.