Recovery After UFE
Overview
To treat uterine fibroids effectively, many women opt for the minimally invasive technique known as uterine fibroid embolization (UFE).
An interventional radiologist inserts a catheter into the femoral or radial artery and injects small beads into the blood vessels supplying the fibroids, restricting blood flow to the fibroids and shrinking them.
If you’re thinking about UFE, you’re certainly curious about the typical UFE procedure, recovery time and what to expect after the UFE procedure. Read on as we give you the intel you are looking for!
What happens after the UFE procedure?
Immediately after the UFE procedure, you can expect to spend some time in a recovery area under observation. This ensures no immediate complications and that you are stable before discharge. Your healthcare team will provide instructions on post-procedure care, including any necessary medications or pain management techniques.
In the first few hours after the procedure, it’s common to experience cramping and discomfort. However, these symptoms can be managed with OTC pain relievers recommended by your doctor. Resting and taking it easy during this initial recovery is important.
Most patients will experience mild to moderate cramping for initial few hours (8-12 hours).
For some patients, pain is mild, bearable and controlled on oral pain-killers (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) while for others, pelvic cramps are very severe, requiring intravenous pain medications and narcotics.
Pain may be accompanied by nausea and vomiting, usually controlled by anti-emetics.
Most patients are admitted overnight for adequate pain relief. Symptoms are substantially improved by the next morning allowing discharge from the hospital.
What to expect on the first day
On the first day after the UFE procedure, you may experience some discomfort and fatigue. This is completely normal as your body begins to heal and adjust.
You might also have some abdominal cramping or pelvic pain, similar to menstrual cramps. Pain medications are prescribed to manage any pain or discomfort.
Infact, pelvic cramps are substantially improved, allowing you to be discharged from the hospital.
It’s important to take it easy on the first day and get plenty of rest. Avoid strenuous activities like heavy lifting that could strain your body. It’s best to stay home and relax, allowing your body time to recover.
Follow all doctor instructions, including taking any prescribed medications as directed to ensure optimal UFE procedure recovery.
UFE procedure recovery time - first week
What to expect in the first week after undergoing a UFE procedure can vary from person to person. Everyone’s recovery process is unique, and individual experiences may differ. In general, you would be able to perform household work after 48 hours and typically return to your office work within 7 to 10 days after UFE.
Pain – Expect additional but milder uterine cramping and weariness on your first full day at home. This will be the case for the next 4 to 5 days.
Post-Embolization Syndrome – You may experience mild nausea, loss of appetite, malaise and possibly a low-grade fever, which is considered to be caused by chemical release from the treated uterine fibroids. These symptoms typically worsen in the first two days before disappearing during the first week. This is considered as part of the recovery process, and is managed with antipyretics and analgesics on an outpatient basis.
Vaginal discharge is common and usually subsides after a few days. For the first two weeks, you should avoid having intercourse or inserting anything into your vagina, such as a tampon. In case of increasing pain, fever, foul smelling vaginal discharge, you should contact a Gynecologist in the hospital/clinic.
UFE procedure recovery time - first few months
In the first few months after undergoing a UFE procedure, you can expect to experience gradual improvements in your symptoms. It’s important to remember that everyone’s recovery timeline may vary slightly, but here are some general expectations.
You might also notice some changes in your menstrual cycle. Some women experience lighter or shorter periods, while others may have irregular bleeding for a few cycles before their flow stabilizes. Don’t be alarmed if this happens – it’s just part of the healing process.
You might also notice improvement of your bulk related symptoms like frequent urge to pass urine and back pain.
As time passes, you should start noticing a decrease in the size and number of fibroids. The full effects of the UFE procedure can take several months to fully manifest, so be patient with yourself during this period.
Regular follow-up appointments with your doctor during these initial months post-UFE is crucial.
Life after UFE
Life after UFE can bring about significant changes and improvements in a woman’s life. After the procedure, many women experience relief from symptoms such as heavy bleeding and pelvic pain.
Once you recover from the initial post embolization phase, you should look after your health and adopt a healthy lifestyle. You are advised to do regular exercise, eat healthy food – high in fruits and green vegetables and avoid consumption of red meat and ham. Reduce your weight and maintain Body-Mass Index (BMI). It would be recommended to take multivitamins and Iron supplements for the initial few months.
Life after UFE holds promise for improved quality of life for many women. With prompt care from a trusted healthcare professional like Dr. Sandeep, you can expect a smoother recovery process and enjoy the benefits of this minimally invasive treatment option.
Consult Dr. Sandeep for expert guidance on UFE procedure recovery
If you have undergone a UFE procedure or are considering it in the future, it’s important to know what to expect during your recovery. The days, weeks, and months following the procedure can vary for each individual, but having an idea of what lies ahead can help alleviate any concerns or uncertainties.
Life after UFE can bring a renewed sense of freedom from debilitating fibroid symptoms such as heavy bleeding and pelvic pain.
