The Uterine Fibroid Embolization procedure allows you to go home right after the treatment, but you will be briefed about post-procedure care. This article will act as a summary of what your nurse will instruct for UFE Post Procedure Care.
UFE Post Procedure Complications
To understand post-procedure care, you need first to know the complications you may suffer. These include:
Pain
It is usual for a patient of UFE to experience a certain level of abdominal pain after the procedure. This pain can resemble the menstrual cramping and pain. These symptoms can be managed by taking narcotic pain relievers and using a heating pad.
Vaginal Discharge and Bleeding
If you experience bleeding and spotting for a while after the procedure, consider it normal. A woman may also miss a period or two due to UFE treatment. However, if the vaginal discharge smells bad, it can be a sign of infection.
Fever
Mild fever is a normal post-procedure thing. However, the fever should not exceed 101 degrees Fahrenheit. A mild fever may be accompanied by nausea, and anti-nausea medication can be a reliever.
UFE Post Procedure Care
There are no restrictions on what a patient should eat or avoid after the procedure. But, if you had a diet control plan before the system for any other disease, you should continue that. You should avoid overeating after the procedure, or it will make you feel sick and nauseous.
Pain Relievers
Your doctor may prescribe you some pain relievers. One or two tablets can be taken after six hours, but only if required. If you are prescribed Vicodin or Percocet, you should avoid taking additional Tylenol because these two pain relievers contain Tylenol. You should also avoid driving after their intake.
Exercise
One should only plan something tiring or active for the first few days after the procedure because they will already feel low energy. You should avoid lifting weights above 10 pounds for two days after treatment.
Shower
Avoid taking a shower for 24 hours after UFE treatment. After 24 hours, gently wash the catheter insertion point using soap and water, but avoid scrubbing.
Follow up
A patient usually does not require a follow-up appointment but should make sure that they are getting follow-up calls regarding their recovery so they can be assisted in case of an undesired circumstance. However, you should call up to get emergency help if your fever exceeds 101 degrees Fahrenheit, if you experience chills, if your pain doesn’t respond to the pain relievers, or in case of any other circumstance that is unwanted.
