Pathway

Uterine fibroid embolizationBefore you start

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12 short steps · about 6 minutes to read

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Fibroids are common growths in the uterus that can cause heavy periods, pain and pressure. UFE shrinks them by cutting off their blood supply through a small opening at the groin or wrist. There is no surgery, and your uterus stays in place.

The short version

  1. Fibroids are growths in the wall of the uterus that are not cancer, and they can cause heavy periods, pain and pressure.
  2. In UFE, a doctor slides a thin tube in through a small opening at your groin or wrist and steers it to your uterus, watching on an X-ray screen.
  3. Tiny particles go through the tube and block the small blood vessels that feed the fibroids, so they shrink over the following months while your uterus stays in place.
  4. Cramps can be strong for the first few days. Most people are back to normal in 1 to 2 weeks, and about 8 or 9 in 10 feel much better.

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Up nextFirst, a quick look at the uterus and fibroids

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