at 6 months
preserved
(or day case)
❓ What are uterine fibroids?
Uterine fibroids (myomas or leiomyomas) are benign tumours of the uterine muscle, common in women of reproductive age. When they grow large or become symptomatic, they can cause heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, urinary symptoms, and significantly affect quality of life.
🔴 Why UFE rather than surgery?
- Alternative to myomectomy or hysterectomy — the uterus is preserved
- Treats all fibroids in a single session, even if multiple
- Documented efficacy: 40–60% volume reduction at 6 months, 80–90% symptom improvement
- Day case or 1-night admission
- No abdominal scar, faster recovery than surgery
👩 Who is UFE suitable for?
- Women with symptomatic fibroids (heavy bleeding, pain, pressure symptoms)
- Large or multiple fibroids
- Wish to preserve the uterus
- Refusal or contraindication to surgery
🔬 How does UFE work?
Pelvic MRI — mandatory before the procedure to map the fibroids
1-night admission with pre-procedural analgesia
Local anaesthesia ± light sedation — femoral or radial artery access
Selective catheterisation of both uterine arteries under fluoroscopic guidance
Microsphere injection into both uterine arteries — procedure lasts 1–2 hours
Discharge the next morning — progressive improvement over 3–6 months
📊 What to expect after UFE
Post-embolisation syndrome is expected and transient: pelvic pain, mild fever and nausea in the first 24–48 hours (managed with analgesia). Most women return to normal activities within 5–7 days. Bleeding improves from the next menstrual cycle onwards.
A follow-up MRI at 6 months confirms fibroid volume reduction. Rare complications include transient amenorrhoea; early menopause is very rare.
⚖️ UFE vs Surgery
| 🔴 UFE — Cochin AP-HP | 🔪 Myomectomy / Hysterectomy | |
|---|---|---|
| Anaesthesia | ✅ Local ± sedation | General |
| Uterus preserved | ✅ Always | Not if hysterectomy |
| All fibroids treated | ✅ Yes, in one session | Risk of missing small ones |
| Abdominal scar | ✅ None | Yes |
| Recovery | ✅ 5–7 days | 4–6 weeks |
| Symptom improvement | 80–90% | 90% (myomectomy may recur) |
❓ Frequently asked questions
Can I get pregnant after UFE?
Pregnancy after UFE is possible. We recommend waiting 12–18 months before attempting conception. The decision is always made jointly with your gynaecologist and fertility team.
Is UFE covered by French health insurance?
Yes. UFE is fully covered by French Assurance Maladie at Cochin Hospital AP-HP. There are no extra fees.
What imaging should I bring to my consultation?
A recent pelvic MRI (within 3 months) is essential. Please also bring any previous ultrasound reports and your gynaecologist's letter.
📄 Patient information leaflet
Information sheet to read before your consultation — includes practical details and questions to ask your radiologist.
✅ Covered by French health insurance (Assurance Maladie). No extra fees at Cochin Hospital AP-HP.