What are Uterine Fibroids?

Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus. They are extremely common among women of reproductive age and can vary greatly in size — from as small as a pea to as large as a melon. While some women experience no symptoms at all, others face significant discomfort and health issues that affect their daily lives and fertility.

 

Uterine Fibroid Treatment

Common Symptoms

  • Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
  • Pelvic pain or pressure
  • Frequent urination due to pressure on the bladder
  • Constipation or bloating
  • Lower back pain
  • Pain during intercourse
  • Enlarged abdomen in cases of large fibroids
  • Difficulty conceiving or complications during pregnancy (in some cases)
Common Symptoms Uterine Fibroid

Traditional Treatment vs. Modern Approach

Traditionally, uterine fibroids were treated with major surgery — either a myomectomy (removal of fibroids) or a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus). While effective, these options involve significant surgical risk, longer hospital stays, and extended recovery — and in the case of hysterectomy, the loss of fertility.

Today, Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) offers a minimally invasive, uterus-preserving alternative that effectively treats fibroids without the need for major surgery.

What is Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)?

Uterine Fibroid Embolization is an advanced, image-guided procedure that cuts off the blood supply to fibroids, causing them to shrink and symptoms to resolve — all without removing the uterus. Performed by an experienced Interventional Radiologist like Dr. Lalit Garg, this treatment is a highly effective and safe alternative to surgery.

Uterine Fibroid Embolization

How is the Procedure Performed?

  • Local Anesthesia — The procedure is done under local anesthesia, keeping the patient awake and comfortable.
  • Catheter Insertion — A thin catheter is inserted through a small puncture, usually in the groin or wrist, and guided to the uterine arteries using real-time imaging.
  • Embolization — Tiny particles are injected into the blood vessels supplying the fibroids, blocking their blood flow.
  • Shrinkage Over Time — Deprived of blood supply, the fibroids gradually shrink, and symptoms such as heavy bleeding and pelvic pressure improve over the following weeks to months.

Benefits of Uterine Fibroid Embolization

  • Uterus-Preserving — No hysterectomy required
  • Minimally Invasive — No large surgical incisions
  • Quick Recovery — Most patients return home within a day and resume routine activities within a week
  • High Success Rate — Significant symptom relief in the majority of patients
  • Treats Multiple Fibroids at Once — Unlike myomectomy, which addresses fibroids individually
  • Lower Risk of Complications — Reduced risk of infection, blood loss, and long hospital stays
  • Preserves Fertility Potential — May be considered for eligible women wishing to retain their uterus

Who is a Good Candidate?

UFE may be recommended for women experiencing:

  • Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding due to fibroids
  • Pelvic pain or pressure from fibroid growth
  • Symptoms affecting daily quality of life
  • A wish to avoid hysterectomy or major surgery
  • Multiple fibroids that would otherwise require complex surgery

Recovery After the Procedure

  • Mild-to-moderate cramping and pelvic discomfort are common for the first few days and are manageable with medication
  • Most patients are discharged within 24 hours
  • Return to normal activities typically within 1–2 weeks
  • Menstrual symptoms and fibroid size are monitored over subsequent months with follow-up imaging
  • Noticeable symptom improvement is often seen within the first 3 months

Why Choose Dr. Lalit Garg for Uterine Fibroid Embolization?

Dr. Lalit Garg, Consultant Vascular & Interventional Radiologist at Santokba Durlabhji Memorial Hospital (SDMH), Jaipur, brings extensive expertise in gynecological interventions, including Uterine Fibroid Embolization. His precise, minimally invasive approach helps women find relief from fibroid symptoms while preserving the uterus — combining clinical excellence with compassionate, patient-centered care.

If you are dealing with symptoms of uterine fibroids, consult Dr. Lalit Garg for an expert evaluation and to explore whether UFE is the right option for you.