Uterine Fibroid Embolism Side Effects

A minimally invasive treatment, uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) blocks blood flow to fibroid tumors of the uterus. These benign tumors rarely turn cancerous, but can cause heavy menstrual bleeding, pain in the pelvic region and pressure on the bladder and bowel.

• Women are hospitalized overnight following the UFE procedure.

Pain

• Following the uterine fibroid embolization, many patients experience pelvic pain and cramping. This is usually treated with oral or IV-delivered narcotics or NSAIDS. Most patients are hospitalized overnight for monitoring and pain management purposes.

Circulation

• In less than 1 percent of cases, the femoral artery can be damaged. A clot can develop, restricting blood flow to the leg.

Sickness

• Feelings of illness, including fatigue, nausea and fever, may occur shortly after the surgery.

Discharge

• Light red or brown discharge may occur for weeks following the procedure. Fibroids may also be discharged through the vagina for months afterward.

Early Menopause

• While most women begin experiencing normal periods a few months after surgery, 1 to 2 percent of patients under the age of 45 cease having periods. This is sometimes accompanied by other menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness.

Complications

• Less than 3 percent of uterine fibroid embolization patients experience complications. In less than one percent of instances, a hysterectomy must be performed.