NEW: Express access to COVID-19 vaccine record is now available.MyHealth.Alberta.ca Network
Health Information and Tools > Tests & Treatments >  Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)

Main Content

Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)

Treatment Overview

Uterine fibroid embolization is a treatment to destroy or shrink fibroids. Fibroids are growths on the outer wall, on the inner wall, or inside the wall of the uterus. Sometimes they're called fibroid tumours, but they aren't cancer.

You may be awake during the procedure. But you will get medicine to help with pain. And you may be given medicine to help you relax. First the doctor will put a thin, flexible tube into a blood vessel in the upper thigh. The tube is called a catheter. Then the doctor sends a solution through the catheter. It prevents your fibroids from getting blood. Without blood, the fibroids shrink or die.

The treatment usually takes 1 to 3 hours. After the procedure, you may stay in the hospital overnight or go home the same day.

You may have some pain for a few hours to a few days. But sometimes pain can last for a couple of weeks. It may take about 1 to 2 weeks to fully recover.

This treatment should reduce pain and bleeding from fibroids.

Information about Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

Information about Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)

Current as of: November 27, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.