Hysterectomy for Fibroids: Is It Your Only Option?

If you’ve been diagnosed with uterine fibroids, you’re not alone. 

Up to 70 percent of women develop fibroids by age 50, and for many, the first treatment recommendation is a hysterectomy. While removing the uterus eliminates fibroids permanently, it also means major surgery, an extended recovery period, and permanent infertility.

A hysterectomy for fibroids is not the only solution. Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE), also known as Uterine Artery Embolization (UAE), is a minimally invasive treatment that effectively shrinks fibroids while preserving the uterus. Before making a decision, it’s important to understand your options, the risks, and which treatment may be the best fit for you.

What Are Uterine Fibroids?

Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in or on the uterus. They vary in size and number, with some women having a single fibroid while others may develop multiple. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and often include:

• Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
• Pelvic pain or pressure
• Frequent urination due to fibroids pressing on the bladder
• Pain during intercourse
• Difficulty conceiving or pregnancy complications

For women experiencing significant discomfort, treatment is often necessary. However, a hysterectomy may not be the only or best solution.

Hysterectomy for Fibroids vs. UFE

When considering fibroid treatment, it’s important to compare the two most common options: hysterectomy and Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE).

Treatment	Hysterectomy	UFE (Uterine Fibroid Embolization)
Procedure Type	Major Surgery	Minimally Invasive
Recovery Time	6-8 weeks	1-2 weeks
Anesthesia	General Anesthesia	Local Anesthesia
Fertility	Permanent infertility	Uterus remains intact
Hospital Stay	2-3 days	Same-day discharge or 1 night
How It Works	Removes the uterus entirely	Blocks blood flow to fibroids, causing them to shrink

A hysterectomy is considered a permanent solution since it removes the uterus entirely. However, it is a major surgical procedure that requires an extended recovery and eliminates the possibility of pregnancy.

UFE, on the other hand, is a minimally invasive procedure that shrinks fibroids by cutting off their blood supply. It allows women to avoid surgery, shortens recovery time, and preserves fertility.

What About Myomectomy?

Another treatment option for fibroids is a myomectomy, which surgically removes fibroids while keeping the uterus intact. Unlike hysterectomy, a myomectomy allows women to maintain their fertility, making it a better option for those who still wish to have children. There are different types of myomectomy procedures, including:

• Abdominal Myomectomy: An open surgery where fibroids are removed through an incision in the lower abdomen.
• Laparoscopic Myomectomy: A minimally invasive approach using small incisions and a camera to guide the removal of fibroids.
• Hysteroscopic Myomectomy: A procedure that removes fibroids through the vagina and cervix, with no incisions.

While myomectomy preserves the uterus, it does not prevent new fibroids from growing in the future. Women considering this option should discuss the likelihood of fibroid recurrence with their doctor and weigh the potential risks and benefits.

Who Is a Good Candidate for UFE?

UFE may be a suitable option for women who:

• Have symptomatic fibroids causing heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, or pressure
• Want to avoid major surgery and long recovery times
• Prefer to preserve their uterus
• Have multiple fibroids or large fibroids but do not want a hysterectomy

While there are alternatives, some women may still require a hysterectomy for fibroids depending on their medical history and symptoms. UFE may not be the best choice for women who:

• Are planning to become pregnant soon, as UFE can sometimes impact fertility
• Have certain types of fibroids that do not respond well to embolization
• Have other medical conditions that require a hysterectomy

Speaking with a specialist can help determine which treatment option is best based on your medical history, symptoms, and personal goals.

Recovery and Results

One of the key advantages of UFE is its shorter recovery time compared to hysterectomy.

Hysterectomy Recovery: Requires six to eight weeks of recovery, including pain, fatigue, and activity restrictions.

UFE Recovery: Most women return to normal activities within one to two weeks, with mild cramping as the fibroids shrink.

UFE is highly effective, with up to 90 percent of women experiencing significant symptom relief. 

Because it is a non-surgical procedure, the risks of infection and complications are lower than with a hysterectomy.

Is UFE Covered by Insurance?

Most insurance plans cover UFE as a fibroid treatment, just as they cover hysterectomy. Coverage details vary, so it’s important to check with your provider regarding:

• Pre-authorization requirements
• In-network interventional radiologists
• Potential out-of-pocket costs

Many women are not informed about UFE as an option because gynecologists often present hysterectomy as the standard treatment. However, UFE is a well-established, FDA-approved procedure that offers effective relief without the need for major surgery.

Making the Right Decision for Your Health

Before scheduling surgery, consider these questions:

• Have I explored all my options, including UFE?
• What are the long-term effects of a hysterectomy for me?
• How will my quality of life change with each procedure?

Many women find that UFE provides the relief they need without the risks and permanent effects of a hysterectomy. If you’re considering treatment, learning about all available options is the first step in making an informed decision.

Find out if UFE is right for you. Schedule a consultation with a specialist today.

For more information on fibroid treatments and other minimally invasive procedures, visit our blog.