Uterine Fibroid & Adenomyosis Treatment
Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) is a minimally invasive, image-guided treatment for uterine fibroids and select cases of adenomyosis — designed to relieve heavy bleeding, pelvic pressure, and pain without removing the uterus.
- Treats
- Uterine fibroids and selected cases of adenomyosis
- Common symptoms
- Heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, pressure, bloating, frequent urination
- Typical setting
- Outpatient — most patients return home the same day
- Recovery
- Many patients return to light activity within several days; full recovery varies
- Candidates
- Determined after physician evaluation and imaging review
About this condition
Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths in or on the wall of the uterus. They are common and can range from very small to several centimeters in size.
Adenomyosis occurs when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows into the muscular wall of the uterus, which can cause heavy or painful periods.
Both conditions can disrupt daily life through heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pressure, bloating, frequent urination, or pain. Many patients have been told their main options are medication, hysterectomy, or myomectomy.
Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) is a minimally invasive, image-guided alternative for appropriate candidates. It is performed by an interventional radiologist and does not require removal of the uterus.
How Uterine Fibroid & Adenomyosis (UFE) works
During UFE, a Beacon IR Clinic physician uses imaging to guide a thin catheter from a tiny access point in the wrist or upper thigh to the arteries that supply blood to the fibroids.
Small particles are released through the catheter to reduce blood flow to the fibroids. Over time, fibroids typically shrink and symptoms may improve.
Because UFE is image-guided through a small access point, there is no large incision and the uterus is preserved.
Benefits and tradeoffs
No procedure is right for every patient. Below are general benefits and considerations to discuss with your physician.
- Uterus-sparingUFE does not require removal of the uterus.
- Minimally invasiveTreatment is performed through a small access point in the wrist or thigh.
- Outpatient settingMost patients go home the same day.
- Shorter recovery for many patientsCompared with surgery, many patients return to daily activity within days, though recovery varies.
- Image-guided precisionAdvanced imaging is used to target the fibroid blood supply.
- ConsiderationsAs with any procedure, UFE has potential risks and is not appropriate for every patient. A physician evaluation is required.
Who may be a candidate?
The list below is general — it is not a diagnosis. A Beacon IR Clinic physician will review your history and imaging during a consultation.
- Symptomatic uterine fibroids confirmed on imaging
- Patients seeking a uterus-sparing alternative to hysterectomy
- Selected patients with adenomyosis after physician evaluation
- Patients who prefer a minimally invasive, outpatient option
- Candidacy is determined by a Beacon IR Clinic physician after review of imaging and medical history
Take the next step
Tell us about your symptoms and we will help schedule an appropriate consultation.
Schedule ConsultationBefore, during, after, and recovery
A general guide. Your physician will share the plan specific to your case.
Before
- Initial consultation, in person or virtually
- Imaging review (MRI or ultrasound as needed)
- Discussion of fertility considerations where relevant
- Pre-procedure instructions provided
During
- Performed in an outpatient setting under conscious sedation
- Small access point in the wrist or thigh
- Most procedures completed in a defined time window
- Continuous monitoring throughout
After
- Short observation period
- Discharge home the same day for most patients
- Written post-procedure instructions and follow-up plan
Recovery
- Cramping and fatigue are common in the first days
- Many patients return to light activity within a few days
- Symptom improvement is gradual over weeks to months
- Follow-up imaging may be recommended
Frequently asked questions
What is uterine fibroid embolization?
UFE is a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure that reduces blood flow to fibroids using a thin catheter. Over time, fibroids often shrink and symptoms may improve.
Can UFE treat adenomyosis?
UFE may be an option for selected patients with adenomyosis. A Beacon IR Clinic physician will review your imaging and history to determine whether you are an appropriate candidate.
Is UFE an alternative to hysterectomy?
For appropriate candidates, UFE can offer a uterus-sparing alternative to hysterectomy. Whether it is the right option depends on your specific condition, goals, and physician evaluation.
How long is recovery after UFE?
Recovery varies. Many patients return to light activity within several days. Some discomfort, cramping, or fatigue is common during the first week.
Can I get pregnant after UFE?
Fertility after UFE is a nuanced topic. Some patients have had pregnancies after the procedure, but it is not specifically designed as a fertility treatment. Discuss your goals with a physician before deciding.
Am I a candidate for UFE?
Candidacy is determined after a consultation that includes imaging review and a discussion of your symptoms, goals, and health history.
Related conditions & treatments
Pelvic Venous Disorders
Pelvic venous disorders, including pelvic congestion syndrome, can cause chronic pelvic pain that worsens throughout the day or after long periods of standing. Image-guided embolization can be an option for appropriate candidates.
Vascular & VenousVaricose Vein Treatment
Beacon IR Clinic provides evaluation and minimally invasive treatment for varicose veins and venous insufficiency — including radiofrequency ablation and sclerotherapy for appropriate candidates.
Helpful resources
Uterine Fibroid & Adenomyosis (UFE) guide
Printable overview placeholder. Download will be added as content is finalized.
Plan your visit
Virtual consults, imaging coordination, and visit planning for out-of-state patients.
Refer a patient
Information and a referral path for referring physicians and offices.
Discuss Uterine Fibroid & Adenomyosis (UFE) with a specialist
Schedule an in-person or virtual consultation. We will review your history, imaging, and goals.