Question 1

What are uterine fibroids?

Accepted Answer

Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus. They are made up of muscle and fibrous tissue and can vary significantly in size, from as small as a pea to larger than a grapefruit. Fibroids are very common, with up to 70-80% of women developing them by the age of 50. While many women have no symptoms, others may experience heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, or urinary problems.

Question 2

What are the symptoms of fibroids?

Accepted Answer

The most common symptoms of fibroids include heavy or prolonged menstrual periods, pelvic pain or pressure, frequent urination, difficulty emptying the bladder, constipation, and pain during intercourse. Some women also experience lower back pain or leg pains. Many women with fibroids have no symptoms at all and may not require treatment.

Question 3

What is Uterine Fibroid Embolisation (UFE)?

Accepted Answer

Uterine Fibroid Embolisation (UFE), also known as Uterine Artery Embolisation (UAE), is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat symptomatic fibroids. During UFE, a specialist interventional radiologist guides a thin catheter through a small puncture to the arteries supplying blood to the fibroids. Tiny particles are then injected to block the blood supply, causing the fibroids to shrink. The procedure typically takes 1-2 hours and is performed under sedation.

Question 4

Am I a candidate for UFE?

Accepted Answer

Most women with symptomatic fibroids are potential candidates for UFE. During your initial consultation, our team will review your medical history, symptoms, and imaging results to determine whether UFE is the most suitable treatment for you. UFE is particularly beneficial for women who wish to avoid surgery or preserve their uterus. Your specialist will discuss all available options to help you make the best decision.

Question 5

How long does the UFE procedure take?

Accepted Answer

The UFE procedure typically takes between 1 and 2 hours to complete. It is performed under conscious sedation and local anaesthesia, meaning you will be awake but comfortable throughout. Most patients are admitted on the morning of the procedure and stay overnight for monitoring before being discharged the following day.

Question 6

What is the recovery time after UFE?

Accepted Answer

Most women are able to return to light activities within a few days and resume normal activities, including work, within 1 to 2 weeks. This is significantly shorter than the 6 to 8 week recovery period typically associated with surgical alternatives such as hysterectomy. Some cramping and discomfort is normal in the first few days and can usually be managed with pain medication prescribed by your doctor.

Question 7

Will I need to stay in hospital?

Accepted Answer

UFE is usually performed as an overnight procedure. You will be admitted on the morning of the procedure and will typically be discharged the following day once our team is satisfied with your recovery. In some cases, same-day discharge may be possible depending on individual circumstances.

Question 8

Is UFE covered by insurance?

Accepted Answer

UFE is widely recognised as an effective treatment for fibroids and is covered by most major private health insurance providers, including Bupa, AXA Health, Aviva, and Vitality. We recommend contacting your insurer to confirm your coverage before your appointment. Self-pay options are also available — please contact our team for pricing information.

Question 9

What are the risks of UFE?

Accepted Answer

UFE is considered a safe and well-established procedure. As with any medical procedure, there are some risks, including post-embolisation syndrome (temporary cramping, nausea, and mild fever), infection, and in rare cases, damage to the uterus or premature menopause. Serious complications are uncommon. Your specialist will discuss all potential risks in detail during your consultation.

Question 10

How effective is UFE?

Accepted Answer

UFE has a high success rate, with approximately 85-90% of women experiencing significant improvement in their symptoms. Studies have shown that UFE effectively reduces heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and pressure symptoms in the majority of patients. Symptom improvement is usually noticed within a few weeks to a few months after the procedure.

Question 11

Will fibroids come back after UFE?

Accepted Answer

The fibroids treated by UFE do not regrow. However, it is possible for new fibroids to develop over time, though this is relatively uncommon. Studies have shown that the need for further treatment after UFE is low, with approximately 90-95% of patients not requiring additional procedures within five years.

Question 12

How do I book a consultation?

Accepted Answer

You can book a consultation by completing the appointment request form on our Contact page, calling us directly on 01305 608250, or emailing admin@northlondonfibroidclinic.co.uk. We aim to respond to all enquiries within 24 hours. During your consultation, our specialist will take a full medical history, review any existing imaging, and discuss the most appropriate treatment options for you.

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