Understanding Uterine Fibroids: What They Are and How to Support Your Recovery
Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in or on the uterus. Also known as leiomyomas or myomas, these tumors are extremely common—affecting up to 70–80% of women by the age of 50. While fibroids are usually benign, they can cause significant symptoms that affect a woman’s daily life and overall well-being.
At Prospero Vascular & Interventional (PVI) in the East Bay, we specialize in Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE), a minimally invasive, non-surgical treatment that effectively shrinks fibroids and relieves symptoms without the need for hysterectomy.
What Are Uterine Fibroids?
Fibroids develop from the smooth muscle tissue of the uterus. They can vary in size, number, and location—growing inside the uterine wall, on its surface, or even projecting into the uterine cavity.
Common Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids:
- Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
- Pelvic pressure or pain
- Frequent urination
- Constipation
- Pain during intercourse
- Enlarged abdomen
- Lower back pain
Treatment: Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)
UFE is a safe, outpatient procedure performed by an interventional radiologist. Using real-time imaging, a catheter is inserted through a small incision (typically in the wrist or groin) and guided to the uterine arteries. Tiny particles are then injected to block the blood flow to the fibroids, causing them to shrink over time.
Benefits of UFE at PVI:
- Minimally invasive – no general anesthesia or hospital stay
- Preserves the uterus
- Shorter recovery compared to surgery
- Significant symptom relief in 90%+ of patients
- Reduced menstrual bleeding, pain, and pressure
Recovery After Uterine Fibroid Embolization: What to Expect
Most patients return home the same day and resume light activities within a few days. However, recovery experiences can vary. Knowing what to expect and how to support your body during recovery is essential.
Common Post-Procedure Symptoms:
- Mild to moderate cramping (usually worst in the first 24–48 hours)
- Low-grade fever
- Fatigue
- Vaginal spotting or discharge
- Nausea or body aches
These symptoms are part of post-embolization syndrome, which is temporary and manageable.
Tips to Support Recovery After UFE
Here are evidence-based suggestions to help you recover more comfortably and efficiently after UFE:
1. Manage Pain and Discomfort
- Use over-the-counter or prescribed pain relievers as directed by your doctor.
- A heating pad on the lower abdomen can help reduce cramping.
- Stay well-hydrated to minimize side effects like nausea or constipation.
2. Take It Easy—But Keep Moving
- Light walking helps reduce the risk of blood clots and promotes circulation.
- Avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting for at least one week.
- Listen to your body and rest as needed.
3. Eat a Nutrient-Rich Diet
- Focus on anti-inflammatory foods: leafy greens, berries, whole grains, and omega-3-rich fish.
- Avoid processed foods and high-sugar items, which may exacerbate inflammation.
- Iron-rich foods (like spinach and lentils) can help replenish lost iron if heavy bleeding was an issue.
4. Track Your Menstrual Cycle
- Periods may be irregular for a few months after UFE.
- Over time, you should notice lighter bleeding and reduced fibroid-related symptoms.
5. Stay in Touch with Your Care Team
- Attend follow-up visits as scheduled to monitor your recovery.
- Notify your provider if you experience severe pain, heavy bleeding, or signs of infection (fever, chills, foul-smelling discharge).
When to Seek Medical Advice
Call your provider immediately if you experience:
- High fever (over 101°F)
- Severe or increasing pelvic pain
- Heavy vaginal bleeding (soaking more than 1 pad/hour)
- Foul-smelling discharge
- Leg swelling or shortness of breath
Why Choose Prospero Vascular & Interventional?
At Prospero VI, we bring cutting-edge, non-surgical solutions to women dealing with chronic pelvic pain, fibroids, and heavy bleeding. Our fellowship-trained interventional radiologists use advanced imaging and minimally invasive techniques to provide safer, faster, and highly effective treatments like Uterine Fibroid Embolization.
We take a whole-person approach—focusing on your goals, your comfort, and your long-term health.
Ready to Learn More?
If you’re struggling with fibroids and want to avoid surgery, we can help.
📞 Call us at (510) 977-8466 or
🌐 Visit prosperovascular.com to schedule your consultation.
Move Better. Feel Better. Live Better.
