Understanding
Fibroids and
Uterine Artery Embolisation (UAE)
What Are Uterine Fibroids?
Uterine fibroids (also known as leiomyomas) are non-cancerous growths that form in or on the muscular wall of the uterus. They’re incredibly common and while not life-threatening, they can significantly impact quality of life.
Fibroids vary in size and number, and symptoms depend on their location.
Common concerns include:
- Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
- Pelvic pain, cramping, or pressure
- Frequent urination or bloating
- Pain during intercourse
- Fatigue or anaemia from chronic blood loss
For some women, fibroids cause little disruption. For others, they interfere with daily life – physically, emotionally, and socially.
What Are Uterine Fibroids?
Uterine fibroids (also known as leiomyomas) are non-cancerous growths that form in or on the muscular wall of the uterus. They’re incredibly common and while not life-threatening, they can significantly impact quality of life.
Fibroids vary in size and number, and symptoms depend on their location.
Common concerns include:
- Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
- Pelvic pain, cramping, or pressure
- Frequent urination or bloating
- Pain during intercourse
- Fatigue or anaemia from chronic blood loss
For some women, fibroids cause little disruption. For others, they interfere with daily life – physically, emotionally, and socially.
Traditional Treatment Options
Historically, treatment options have been limited to:
Medication to manage bleeding and pain (often temporary relief)
Myomectomy, surgical removal of fibroids while preserving the uterus
Hysterectomy, complete removal of the uterus
While surgery remains appropriate for certain cases, many women are now seeking less invasive, uterus-sparing alternatives that align with modern medicine’s focus on precision, preservation, and faster recovery.
What Is Uterine Fibroid Embolisation (UFE)?
Uterine Fibroid Embolisation (UFE) – sometimes called Uterine Artery Embolisation (UAE) – is a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure performed by an interventional specialist.
Using advanced imaging (fluoroscopy), the doctor guides a thin catheter through a small puncture in the wrist, arm or groin into the uterine arteries. Tiny, biocompatible particles are then released to block blood flow to the fibroids, causing them to shrink over time.
The uterus remains intact, and surrounding tissue is preserved.
The Benefits of UAE
Uterus-sparing: Treats fibroids without removing the uterus.
Minimally invasive: No large incision, minimal scarring, and typically an overnight stay or same-day discharge.
Short recovery: Most women return to normal activities within a week.
High success rates: Studies show significant reduction in bleeding, pain, and pressure symptoms in over 85–90% of patients.
Evidence-based: Supported by major international guidelines, including NICE (UK) and ACOG (US), as a safe and effective treatment option.
What to Expect
Before The Procedure:
You’ll have a consultation and imaging to confirm that your fibroids are suitable for UFE. We’ll discuss your symptoms, and any previous treatments.
During The Procedure:
Performed under local anaesthetic with conscious sedation, the procedure typically takes 45–60 minutes. Most women describe mild cramping during the procedure, easily managed with medication.
After The Procedure:
Why Choose UAE at the Advanced Fibroid Clinic
Patient-centric recovery protocols designed for comfort and clarity
Evidence-based outcomes consistent with global standards in minimally invasive medicine
Multidisciplinary collaboration with your healthcare provider to ensure safe, coordinated care
Performed by experienced interventional specialists trained in advanced image-guided techniques
The Bottom Line
UFE is changing the way fibroids are treated – offering women freedom from symptoms without major surgery, without long recovery, and without losing what makes them whole.
If you’ve been told surgery is your only option, we invite you to explore a modern alternative that combines technology, precision, and compassion.