Uterine artery embolisation (UAE) is a simple and safe procedure used to stop vaginal bleeding. This bleeding can be caused by fibroids, childbirth problems, trauma, cancerous tumours, and other health conditions.
Are you experiencing heavy periods or pelvic pain, or have you recently been diagnosed with fibroids? You've probably been told that the only way to treat it is through surgery. But for many women, just hearing the word “surgery” can feel scary. The thought of being in hospital, needing weeks to recover, and possibly losing your uterus can be too much to take in.
Thanks to advanced medical technology, a safe and effective treatment is now available to manage this condition without surgery. The procedure is called uterine artery embolisation (UAE). It doesn’t need major surgery. UAE helps shrink the fibroids and can get you back to your daily routine much sooner.
Want to know more? In this guide, we’ll explain what UAE is, how it works, and what it can help with.
Uterine artery embolisation (UAE) is a simple and safe procedure used to stop vaginal bleeding. This bleeding can be caused by fibroids, childbirth problems, trauma, cancerous tumours, and other health conditions.
During this procedure, your interventional radiologist stops blood flow to the fibroid. Without getting blood, the fibroids begin to shrink over time. This can relieve symptoms such as heavy menstrual periods, lower abdominal pain, or pressure in the pelvis.
Uterine artery embolisation (UAE) is a simple procedure performed by experienced interventional radiologists. The procedure starts with a tiny pinhole, usually made near the groin or wrist. Through this, a thin tube is gently inserted into the blood vessels that lead to the uterus.
Once the tube is inserted at the right place, tiny particles are sent through it. These particles block the blood flow to the fibroids. Without getting blood, the fibroids slowly shrink.
The healthy part of your uterus keeps getting normal blood. The whole procedure usually takes about an hour. Many women go home the same day or stay just one night in hospital.
UAE is mainly used to treat fibroids. These are non-cancerous growths in the uterus. Fibroids can cause:
The UAE can also help with:
Many women prefer the UAE because it avoids major surgery. Here are some reasons why it’s becoming more popular:
If you’ve been told you need surgery for fibroids and feel nervous about it, you’re not alone. UAE is a safe and gentle option that could help you avoid major surgery. It lets you treat your symptoms without losing time, energy, or your uterus.
You don’t have to suffer in silence or wait for things to get worse. UAE gives many women a way to feel better and live freely again — without long hospital stays or painful recovery.
If you're thinking about your options, speak to a gynaecologist or a specialist in the UAE. Ask questions. Learn the pros and cons. And most importantly, choose what feels right for you.
A 27-year-old woman, just two months postpartum from a C-section, began experiencing heavy vaginal bleeding. Her haemoglobin levels dropped significantly, and her doctor recommended a hysterectomy, which was overwhelming given her young age and the need to care for her infant. Seeking another opinion, she consulted Dr Avik Bhattacharya, an interventional radiologist at CMRI.
After thorough investigation, Dr Bhattacharya discovered a tumour-like structure inside her uterus, which was causing the bleeding. This rare condition involved placental tissue that had been incorporated into the uterine wall, leading to continuous bleeding. Dr Bhattacharya suggested a non-surgical option: Uterine Artery Embolisation (UAE), a minimally invasive procedure that blocks the blood supply to the affected area.
The procedure, performed using advanced imaging at CMRI, lasted around 45 minutes. The bleeding stopped immediately, and the patient was discharged the same day after a few hours of observation. She was relieved and amazed at how quickly she recovered without needing surgery.
The patient expressed her gratitude, stating that thanks to the UAE, she could return to her baby without the trauma of hysterectomy. The UAE is a prime example of how interventional radiology is transforming medical treatment without surgery.
The UAE is a good option for many women, but not all. It may not be suitable if:
You’re pregnant. You plan to get pregnant soon. You have certain types of fibroids that need a different approach. That’s why it’s important to talk to a doctor who knows your full medical history. They can guide you and help you choose what’s best for your body.
Pregnancy is not strictly contraindicated, but it may be more difficult after UAE; women planning to conceive should discuss risks with their doctor.
Mild to moderate pain or cramping is common after the procedure, but it is usually managed with pain relief medication.
The procedure typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours.
Yes, UAE can be repeated if symptoms return or fibroids grow back.
Some women may notice lighter or irregular periods for a while, but most cycles return to normal within a few months.
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