If you’ve recently been diagnosed with uterine fibroids, you have various treatment options. Plantation uterine fibroid embolization may be the best treatment option for you. However, as you know, all fibroid cases are unique, and UFE may be ideal or not for you. If you are wondering whether you are a perfect candidate for uterine fibroid embolization, do not fret. Here’s the guide you need in discerning whether you are a good candidate for uterine fibroid embolization.
What is Uterine Fibroid Embolization? (UFE)
UFE is an alternative to hysterectomy for treating fibroid symptoms. The minimally invasive procedure relies on a minor incision made on your groin. During UFE, an interventional radiologist inserts a thin catheter through a tiny incision at the groin. The tube delivers FDA-approved microspheres that block the flow of oxygen and nutrients to the uterine fibroids, causing them to shrink.
Uterine fibroid embolization has minimal downtime and may not warrant a stay in the hospital. Many doctors prefer UFE over hysterectomy and other open surgery methods to treat fibroid tumors.
Who Is a Good Candidate for UFE?
If you struggle with uterine fibroids, you are a picture-perfect candidate for UFE. However, panning to the details, there are more aspects to consider if you are a suitable candidate for uterine fibroid embolization.
Women Who Want Uterus Preservation
Patients who want uterine preservation are ideal candidates for UFE. UFE shrinks the fibroids, and the symptoms naturally dissipate, unlike a hysterectomy, which removes the uterus. If you intend to have a future pregnancy, then UFE is the treatment to choose. Keep in mind that if you are actively trying to get pregnant, doctors may not recommend uterine fibroid embolization.
Women who Don’t Fancy Surgery
Not everyone is comfortable with the idea of going under the knife. Some women may have conditions that challenge surgery, such as obesity and bleeding disorders. Doctors assess your health before determining whether surgery to remove uterine fibroids is practical. In instances where the surgery will do more harm than good, the doctor will employ UFE.
Women with Heavy Cycles
Periods are already difficult to manage. Throw in fibroids to the mix, and you must regularly change your tampons and pads throughout the day. Not only is it discomforting, but it also hinders your productivity at work. UFE can help nix the pain without much fuss if you struggle with heavy flows and painful cramps.
Women Who Want an Expedited Recovery
After surgery, it may take weeks or months to resume your normal activities. Because uterine fibroids embolization is performed as an outpatient procedure, you will recover faster than if you had a hysterectomy. The recovery time depends on your underlying health conditions, activity levels, and recovery plan. But generally, you will get back to your life faster.
Who is Not an Eligible Candidate for UFE?
An estimated 90% of women with uterine fibroids are ideal candidates for UFE. The other cadre may be ineligible for UFE because of pregnancy, endometrial cancer, chronic pelvic infection, kidney complications, and uncorrectable bleeding disorders.
Some women seek uterine fibroid embolization just before they intend to get pregnant. Since UFE cuts blood flow to the fibroids and uterus, it won’t be the perfect condition to implant a fetus.
