Uterine Fibroid Embolization

Three out of four women will develop uterine fibroids during their lifetime, but that doesn’t mean you have to accept the symptoms as normal. At the Orange County Interventional Radiology Center, we’re changing how women think about fibroid treatment with uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) — an advanced, minimally invasive technique that has helped thousands of women find relief without the need for major surgery.

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What Is Uterine Fibroid Embolization?

Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths that develop in the walls of the uterus, affecting an estimated 70% of women at some point during their reproductive years. While many women experience no fibroid-related symptoms, others struggle with heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, abdominal fullness and fertility issues. For those seeking relief, UFE offers a minimally invasive alternative to surgical treatments like a hysterectomy or myomectomy.

UFE is a safe and effective procedure that works by blocking the blood vessels that feed the uterine fibroids. Without proper blood supply, the fibroids shrink naturally over time. This innovative treatment leaves the uterus intact while effectively reducing fibroid-related symptoms, allowing you to return to your normal activities much sooner than with traditional surgery.

Ideal Candidates for Uterine Fibroid Embolization

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Before recommending uterine fibroid embolization, our expert team carefully evaluates each patient’s symptoms, medical history, and treatment goals. While UFE effectively treats fibroids in many women, several factors help determine if this innovative procedure is right for you.

You may be a good candidate for uterine fibroid embolization if you:

  • Experience heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding that impacts your daily life
  • Suffer from persistent pelvic pain or pressure caused by fibroids
  • Have tried conservative treatments without lasting success
  • Want to avoid major surgery and preserve your uterus
  • Are looking for an alternative to a hysterectomy or myomectomy

As a minimally invasive option, UFE involves significantly less risk and downtime than surgical interventions. If you’re experiencing symptomatic fibroids and want to experience lasting relief, our team can help determine if this procedure is right for you. We’ve helped countless women regain their quality of life through UFE when traditional treatments weren’t the right fit.

What to Expect During Treatment

UFE is a minimally invasive procedure that is performed on an outpatient basis, meaning no hospital stay is required. Local anesthesia and mild sedation are used to keep you comfortable. During treatment, our experienced interventional radiologists use advanced imaging technology to guide a thin catheter through a small puncture in your wrist or groin. The catheter is carefully directed to the arteries supplying blood to your fibroids. Tiny particles are then released to block these blood vessels, effectively cutting off the blood supply. Without this nourishment, the fibroids begin to shrink, and symptoms typically improve within three to six months.

Uterine Fibroid Embolization Recovery

Recovery from UFE is significantly easier compared to more invasive procedures, but you may experience side effects such as cramping, pain, nausea and a low-grade fever. While these symptoms are worse the first day or two after treatment, most women return to work and other activities within a week. Over the following months, you’ll notice a gradual improvement in fibroid-related symptoms as they begin to shrink, including lighter periods and less pelvic pain. Studies show that UFE successfully reduces fibroid symptoms in over 85-90% of patients, with many reporting a significant improvement in their overall comfort and quality of life.

Take the First Step Toward Relief

At Orange County Interventional Radiology, our team specializes in providing innovative, nonsurgical solutions for women suffering from uterine fibroids. We understand how fibroid symptoms can affect your daily life, and we’re committed to helping you find relief through the most advanced treatment options available.

Contact us today at (949) 317-1633 to schedule a consultation and learn if uterine fibroid embolization is right for you. Our experienced team will take the time to answer your questions and help you understand all your treatment options.

Our Locations

Three Locations, One Commitment: Your Care

Lake Forest

29300 Portola Parkway, Suite B
Lake Forest, CA 92630
Toll Free: (800) 267-5677

Hours of Operation

Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed

Mission Viejo

26921 Crown Valley Parkway, #120
Mission Viejo, CA 92691
Toll Free: (800) 267-5677

Hours of Operation

Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed

Irvine

18102 Sky Park Circle South, Suite D
Irvine, CA 92614
Toll Free: (800) 267-5677

Hours of Operation

Monday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed

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