Uterine Fibroid Treatment is a life‑changing option for many women experiencing painful periods, heavy bleeding, or pressure symptoms. At Prospero Vascular & Interventional in Hayward, CA, we offer image‑guided, minimally invasive solutions—like Uterine Artery Embolization—to help you feel better more quickly, without major surgery.
What Are Uterine Fibroids?
Uterine fibroids are benign (noncancerous) growths in or around the uterus. They can vary greatly in size, number, and location. Some fibroids cause no symptoms; others lead to heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain or pressure, urinary frequency, bloating, or fertility issues. Penn Medicine+2UCLA Health+2
Why Choose a Minimally Invasive Approach?
Many women prefer non‑surgical treatments because they:
- Preserve the uterus
- Reduce risk of complications
- Enable quicker recovery
- Cause less pain and scarring
- Allow return to daily activities sooner Hopkins Medicine+2Northwestern Medicine+2
Prospero Vascular & Interventional specializes in these approaches. Our goal is to help you avoid surgery when possible, so you can live more comfortably and confidently.
What Is Uterine Artery Embolization (UAE / UFE)?
Uterine Artery Embolization (also called UFE – Uterine Fibroid Embolization) is one of the leading minimally invasive treatments. An interventional radiologist uses imaging guidance (e.g., fluoroscopy) to insert a thin catheter through the groin or wrist. Tiny particles are released into the arteries supplying the fibroids, blocking blood flow. Over time, without their blood supply, fibroids shrink and symptoms reduce. Hopkins Medicine+2Northwestern Medicine+2
Pros & Cons: What to Expect
| Benefit | Consideration / Risk |
|---|---|
| Most patients experience significant relief in bleeding and pain. Penn Medicine+1 | Some cramping, pelvic pain, or discomfort after the procedure. |
| Outpatient treatment in many cases; same‑day return home. Northwestern Medicine+1 | Temporary side effects like fatigue, nausea, or low‑grade fever. |
| No large incision; minimal scarring. | Possible risk to fertility; discuss if future pregnancy is desired. Northwestern Medicine+2The Interventional Initiative+2 |
| Shorter recovery vs traditional surgery. Penn Medicine+1 | Rare complications: infection, unintended embolization, or need for further treatment. Saint Luke’s Health System+1 |
Is UFE Right for You?
You might consider Uterine Fibroid Treatment via embolization if you have:
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Pelvic pressure or pain
- Anemia caused by bleeding
- Uterine enlargement
- Urinary or bowel symptoms
- Multiple fibroids Penn Medicine+1
You may not be a candidate if you:
- Have an active pelvic infection
- Have certain bleeding disorders
- Are pregnant
- Want to preserve fertility (depending on the case)
- Have very large or numerous fibroids that might not respond well Hopkins Medicine+1
Why Prospero Vascular & Interventional?
At our clinic, you will receive:
- Personalized care led by Dr. David Soto, a fellowship‑trained vascular and interventional radiologist with over 15 years of experience.
- Same‑day outpatient procedures in a comfortable, compassionate environment.
- A full range of minimally invasive options not only for fibroids, but also for other vascular and non‑vascular conditions (e.g., chronic knee pain, benign prostatic hyperplasia, hemorrhoids). For details, see our procedures list and explore how we treat other conditions like dialysis access .
We blend safety, high standards, and patient‑centered care so you get results that let you live better sooner.
What to Expect During the Process
- Consultation & Imaging
We assess symptoms, perform imaging (MRI, ultrasound), and review medical history. - Procedure Day
Local anesthesia, access via groin or wrist, guided by imaging. Embolic agents block blood flow to fibroids. Usually one to two hours. Many patients return home same day. Northwestern Medicine+1 - Recovery
You might feel some cramping or discomfort for a few days. Light activities within a few days; full recovery often in about a week. Uterine fibroids continue shrinking over time. Penn Medicine+2Northwestern Medicine+2 - Follow‑Up
We monitor symptoms, may use imaging to track shrinkage, check for complications, and support you through recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Will this affect my fertility?
Possibly. Although many women retain the ability to conceive after UFE, risks exist. If preserving fertility is a goal, we’ll discuss all options. - How soon will I feel better?
Many patients notice improvement in symptoms like bleeding and pressure within weeks. Full effects may take several months as fibroids shrink. - Do fibroids come back?
Some treated fibroids may regrow, or new ones may develop. But in many cases, symptoms remain much improved. - Is the procedure painful?
Discomfort and cramping are common during recovery. We provide pain management and supportive care to help.
How to Get Started
If you think Uterine Fibroid Treatment might be right for you, contact Prospero Vascular & Interventional today. We’ll arrange a consultation, review imaging, and plan the best approach for your needs.
Conclusion
Uterine Fibroid Treatment, especially via embolization, offers many women a safe, effective alternative to surgery. Prospero Vascular & Interventional combines experienced physicians, modern technology, and patient‑focused care to help you move better, feel better, and live better. If fibroids are affecting your life, you don’t have to suffer in silence.