If you’ve decided to move forward with uterine artery embolization (UAE) for the treatment of uterine fibroids, you likely have questions about what comes next. What does recovery look like? How long will it take to feel like yourself again? And, most importantly, will the results last?
At Pedes Orange County, we understand that choosing any medical treatment, especially one involving your reproductive health, can bring a mix of relief, hope, and uncertainty. This blog is here to walk you through what you can expect after UAE, from the immediate recovery period to long-term outcomes, so that you can feel confident, informed, and supported every step of the way.
What Happens Immediately After UAE?
Uterine artery embolization is a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure that typically takes about 1 to 2 hours. It’s performed under conscious sedation or light anesthesia, and most patients return home the same day or after a short overnight observation.
Once the embolization is complete — meaning the tiny blood vessels feeding your fibroids have been safely blocked — you’ll move to a recovery area for monitoring. It’s common to feel pelvic cramping, similar to menstrual cramps, as the fibroids begin to lose their blood supply and shrink.
You may also experience:
- Fatigue
- Mild nausea
- Low-grade fever
- Discomfort at the catheter insertion site (groin or wrist)
These symptoms are a normal part of your body’s response and are typically temporary and manageable with oral medication.
The First Few Days
The first 3 to 5 days after UAE are often the most intense in terms of recovery, and it’s important to give yourself time to rest. While everyone’s experience is different, here’s what many patients report:
- Cramping and pelvic discomfort, often peaking in the first 24 hours and gradually subsiding
- Spotting or light bleeding, especially if your fibroids are submucosal or intramural
- Fatigue and reduced energy — a cue to take it easy and allow your body to heal
We typically recommend taking 3 to 5 days off work or daily responsibilities, depending on how you feel. Most patients are able to resume light activities within a few days and return to work within a week. Remember to stay hydrated, follow your aftercare instructions, and don’t hesitate to reach out if something feels off. Your care team is here to support you through every phase of recovery.
The First Few Weeks
In the weeks following your UAE procedure, your body continues to adjust and heal. During this time, it’s common to notice:
- Gradual relief from heavy bleeding and pressure symptoms
- Lighter, more manageable menstrual cycles
- Improved energy and comfort as fibroids shrink and the uterus returns to a more balanced state
Many women also find they have fewer urinary or bowel symptoms, especially if fibroids were putting pressure on the bladder or rectum. If you were dealing with bloating, pelvic fullness, or back pain, these symptoms often lessen over time.
You may also receive a follow-up imaging scan (such as an MRI or ultrasound) to monitor the reduction in fibroid size and ensure the embolization was effective.
What About Your Period After UAE?
Menstrual changes are common after UAE — and they’re not always immediate. Some women experience lighter periods within the first month, while others notice gradual improvement over several cycles.
It’s also possible to have an irregular period, or skip one, within the first couple of months. This is often temporary and part of your body’s natural adjustment process. If your cycles were unusually heavy before UAE, you may feel a significant difference after just one or two periods.
Will the Results of UAE Last?
One of the most frequent questions we hear is, “Will UAE give me long-lasting relief?”
The answer, in many cases, is yes. UAE has a strong track record of long-term success, especially for women who are not planning future pregnancies. Studies show that the majority of patients — up to 85–90% — experience lasting symptom relief for many years following the procedure.
Here’s what the long-term outlook often includes:
- Shrinking of treated fibroids (often by 30–60% in volume)
- Improved menstrual bleeding patterns
- Reduced pelvic pressure, cramping, and urinary symptoms
- Avoidance of major surgery, such as hysterectomy or myomectomy
While UAE does not remove fibroids, it targets the root cause of symptoms by cutting off their blood supply. In rare cases, fibroids may regrow or new ones may develop, but this is less common and typically occurs several years after treatment.
Will UAE Affect Fertility?
Fertility is a personal and complex topic, and the impact of UAE on future pregnancy varies from woman to woman. While pregnancy is possible after UAE, it’s important to have a thorough conversation with your specialist if you’re planning to conceive in the future.
UAE is generally recommended for women who:
- Are not planning future pregnancies
- Want to preserve their uterus but avoid surgery
- Have been unsuccessful with other fibroid treatments
If fertility is a primary goal, your doctor may discuss other options such as myomectomy, which is often preferred for those actively trying to conceive. That said, many women have had healthy pregnancies post-UAE, and fertility-preserving embolization is an active area of research.
Tips for a Smoother Recovery
Here are a few gentle reminders to help your body recover and feel your best post-UAE:
- Rest as needed during the first few days — listen to your body’s signals
- Stay on top of pain management with any prescribed medications
- Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity for at least a week
- Hydrate and eat nourishing foods to support healing
- Follow up with your care team for imaging and symptom check-ins
Most importantly, be kind to yourself. Healing is not linear, and your progress is valid even if it’s not immediate.
Your Recovery, Your Pace
At Pedes Orange County, we take pride in helping women find relief from fibroid symptoms through personalized, minimally invasive care. If you’re navigating recovery from UAE, know that you’re not alone — and that our team is here to support your healing every step of the way.
Whether you’re still exploring treatment options or recovering from your procedure, we’re committed to making your experience as comfortable, informative, and empowering as possible.
If you have questions about uterine artery embolization or want to schedule a follow-up, reach out to the caring team at Pedes Orange County. We offer same-day or next-available appointments to help you get the answers and care you deserve.
Contact us online to schedule your visit. Your recovery is our priority, and we’re here to help you move forward with confidence.
