If you’ve been diagnosed with fibroids, you may be weighing two common treatment options: Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) or myomectomy. Both aim to relieve symptoms like heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, or pressure — but they work differently.
This guide breaks down what you need to know about UFE vs myomectomy so you can make an informed choice.
UFE | Myomectomy | |
---|---|---|
What it is | Image-guided procedure that blocks blood flow to fibroids, causing them to shrink | Surgical removal of fibroids through an incision (abdominal, laparoscopic, or robotic) |
Invasiveness | Minimally invasive (small puncture, no stitches) | Surgical (requires incisions) |
Anesthesia | Local + sedation | General anesthesia |
Recovery Time | 1 week (light activity) | 4–6 weeks (depends on approach) |
Fertility Impact | Preserves uterus; future pregnancy possible but less studied | Preferred if planning pregnancy soon |
Hospital Stay | Outpatient or 1 night | 1–3 nights depending on method |
Fibroid Recurrence | Low (fibroids shrink) | May regrow if not all removed |
UFE may be a better option if you:
Myomectomy may be preferred if you:
Learn how UFE works — Mayo Clinic overview
When deciding between UFE vs myomectomy, ask:
A multidisciplinary review can help ensure you’re getting the best recommendation for your goals.
Explore more patient-first insights on our blog.
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