There are no or fewer risks associated with uterine fibroid embolization. The risks and side effects of UFE that need some consideration are as follows:
Complications of Angiography
Using a catheter can lead to a small bruise and a little bleeding of vessels; this can, in turn, cause blood clotting. Vascular injury is also one of the greatest concerns; minor treatments may be required to treat such conditions. Other than these, an iodinated radiographic contrast can lead to renal failure.
Infections
Fever or pus from the cervix after UFE treatment is likely a sign of infection. The contamination of fibroids usually causes uterine infections. A person who has undergone the UFE procedure will most likely develop a wound infection at or near the cut made for the catheter to enter. This is a rare complication.
Drug Reaction
A patient is influenced by multiple medicines during and after the UFE procedure, mainly for relaxation and comfort. As contrasts can cause allergic symptoms, the medication causes some side effects like urinary retention and dry mouth. Urinary retention is resolved with time.
Radiation Injury
During UFE, the catheter is guided to the target area by radiations (X-rays). A radiation burn is a major risk associated with exposing the patient’s skin to radiation. However, no patient has ever been reported with a radiation burn. This radiation may cause slight injury but is kept under a certain range to avoid causing cancer, infertility, mutations, etc.
Pelvic Pain
One of the most reported complications of UFE is pelvic pain. The pelvic pain after UFE ranged from moderate to severe. However, the presence of pelvic pain is not associated with the success or failure of the procedure. This will gradually decrease over time.
Nausea / Vomiting
Vomiting is also very common in patients after the UFE procedure; certain medicines are given to avoid such conditions.
Fever
Almost 40% of the patients experience a fever of about 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or even more. Patients are given medicines to prevent this temperature from increasing to uncomfortable levels. Fevers are normal, but if you experience chills with fever, that can be a problem, and you should consult your doctor as soon as possible.
Fertility
Many patients experience healthy pregnancies after the UFE procedure. However, some may experience premature ovarian failure. The exact impact of the UFE procedure on fertility is yet to be found.
