I recall nothing from the procedure. Not even leaving the Interventional Radiology Suite and returning to my room. I remember seeing the Interventional Radiologist right before he started and then I remember being back in my room.
The experience was not like the general anesthesia used during my Hysteroscopic Myomectomy. I could feel myself fading and knew exactly when I went under. I could also feel myself coming out of it after the surgery was over.
The conscious sedation was completely different. I never felt like I was out. It was more like some sort of time/location shift. One moment, I was in the procedure room. I blinked my eyes and I was then back in my room. Really weird sensation.
So, how did I feel afterward? Ugh and Ick! Yes, there was pain. I was hooked up to one of those patient-controlled analgesia pumps (PCA) that administered morphine. I had to balance my pain relief with the nausea from the drugs and the struggle made me feel like crap.
——————–
Related Posts:
How are you feeling after your Uterine Fibroid Embolization?
I’m really starting to think my wiring is kind of screwed
Two weeks after my Uterine Fibroid Embolization
Gosh… My period turned out to be a question mark!
My condition one month post-Uterine Fibroid Embolization
UPDATE: My condition two months post-Uterine Fibroid Embolization
UPDATE: My condition three months post-Uterine Fibroid Embolization
UPDATE: My condition four months post-Uterine Fibroid Embolization
August 11, 2006 at 5:16 am
Hi, im taking paracetamol,codene and volterol, 3 weeks post and they only seem to work for an hour or so, feel like im in labour, passing horrible chicken entrails and feel sick. I dont know what to do with myself. Meant to be going back to work on wed. Waiting call from Dr to see if he can offer me any other meds.
Julie
August 11, 2006 at 12:49 pm
Julie,
Sorry you are in so much pain but I do appreciate you taking the time to come here and post about your experience. Make sure that you tell your doctor everything you are feeling (any pain, nausea, what you are passing, if you are tired or weak, loss of appetite, everything) so your problems can be addressed.
I’m listing the Wikipedia entries of your prescriptions because you know how I am about including links:
Paracetamol
Codeine
Voltarol
Hope you get relief and start to feel better soon. My thoughts are with you. Take care.
August 24, 2006 at 8:52 am
Hello its me again. Had my entrails and urine checked, no infection, thank god. Still given anti-biotics. my Dr said id suffered cronic embolisation syndrome as my fibroid was very large, 10cm x14cm , 17cm. Im still loosing but its not as much, i still feel sick but less, and i can eat a bit more than popcorn and soup! . So things are getting better slowly. This is 5 weeks post UFE can’t believe im still not back at work yet, can’t wait to feel normal, and sex what is that?
I find it hard it hard to comprehend the literature about how easy the recovery sounds when i know what ive had, when its my turn to fill in my questionairs i will pull no punches.
Cheers
Julie x
August 24, 2006 at 8:56 am
Ps. Does anyone know how long the horrible discharge lasts after UFE
i’ve had mine now for over 2 wks.
Ta
julie
August 24, 2006 at 11:46 am
Sorry to hear you’re still in the recovery phase but really happy that there’s no infection. Not sure about the discharge. It might depend on how much of the fibroid is still passing (?). Hopefully, someone in a similar situation will comment. I’m sticking a couple of links here (not necessarily for you because you have firsthand knowledge) but for others who are reading.
Uterine Fibroid Embolization
Has a little section about post-embolization syndrome about halfway down the page.
Complications from Uterine Fibroid Embolization
I appreciate you continuing to take the time to stop by and share. I think it’s helpful to talk about different personal experiences. I know it has helped me. Yes, when given the opportunity to answer something like a survey, you go right ahead and let ‘em have it.
Tell it all. People need to hear from all sides.
Cheers and take care.
August 25, 2006 at 9:04 am
Hello, ive got some news for you all.
I felt abit hot and wobbly again last night so i went to bed, i got up about 7am with a bit of cramp, took some paracetamol and went to the toilet. I noticed a lump of tissue coming out of me, i got this awful dred and knew it was my fibroid. I was terrified id have to go into hospital and have it removed as it seemed stuck. I waited and walked around for about half an hour, i had no pain. So i went for it, i sat on the loo and pushed, I must have pushed with all my might about 5 times. My mum who is staying with me at the mo,and my husband came running up the stairs as i cryed out alot as it hurt as it came out. Then one almighty splash and it was out, all this pale brown disharge came out with it. It was all over the floor up the door, everywhere as it came out fast. It was the size of a babys head, abit knobbly. Mum was there with her marigold glove on retreiving it from the loo as i had to take it down to the Drs so they can check it out. I feel calm and happy that its out, i feel abit weak still, i think im in a bit of shock. I called my consultant who performed the embolisation, he said hed done this procedure 150 times and im only the second woman this has happend to, and no wonder i felt so ill for such a long time, he said im over the worse now. I am waiting to here from my Gyn. he will arrange a scan and probably take a swab. Would you believe it.
I will let you know how i get on from here.
Thanks for being here for me.
Julie. x
August 25, 2006 at 12:36 pm
I am dumbstruck. My mouth is still open from reading this. I can’t even imagine you actually living it. Wow. Glad you have family there with you. Your mother has my vote for “Mum of the Year”. Your husband gets two thumbs up, too.
Julie, I am so happy and excited that your fibroid is finally out. You thank me for being here but I must thank you for continuing to post and share as you go through this. It is important to hear. We are an ocean away but today I feel as though I’m right there. Keep me (us) updated.
Best wishes as you now move forward!
August 30, 2006 at 1:27 pm
Hi there, just to let you know i feel great and im off to work tomorrow
it been a long 6 weeks off. Looking forward to my holiday in october but id better leave it a while before i ask for time off eh!
I will keep checking this site incase of any questions anyone might have, or just to advise anyone who felt as bad as me.
Thanks again and good luck. I will let you when ive had my scan.
Julie x
August 30, 2006 at 8:35 pm
Hip, Hip…Hooray! Happy to hear you are doing so well. Long 6 weeks off but no vacation, huh?
Thank you so much for talking about your experience. My next post involves passing a fibroid and you are my reference. I appreciate that you will continue to stop by and check on us. Take care and keep us updated.
Cheers!
September 7, 2006 at 6:48 pm
I had very bad cramps, so bad I had to leave work. I almost overdosed on pain killer to sto the pain. I took a nap and woke up abou 1 hr later. I had no pan up felt the earg to go to the pot, When I sat down, somting fell in the toilet, it was brown about 3 inches long smooth on one side and look like the botton of a musroon on the other. Any idea of what this is.
September 7, 2006 at 8:36 pm
If the problem is fibroid-related, it could have been a large blood clot or possibly a fibroid. I have passed large clots after bad cramps. One visitor here did pass a large fibroid. Please see these posts:
Do uterine fibroids burst?
Can I pass a uterine fibroid?
Also check, Uterine fibroid symptoms (not my idea of fun) to see if you have any other symptoms.
I’m sorry your cramps are so bad. I am familiar with having to eat pain killers for relief. Please come back and post any other questions or concerns.
September 19, 2006 at 5:37 pm
I’m so happy to have found this site!!! I had a UFE four weeks ago and I’m still cramping. I, like Julie, had a HUGE fibroid, 8cm x14cm x 12cm, along with 4 other large ones. After reading her post though I consider myself lucky. That experience sounds terrifying. Considering how large the one is I”m wondering if I’m in for the same thing. Anyone?
I expected to return to work a week after, but I was out a full two weeks, and the third week was only a couple hours a day. Last week was my first full week back at work, I ende up leaving early yesterday, because of cramping. I am definately not 100%. I had my period (I think) about three weeks after the procedure, but I’m still getting the ‘chicken entrails’ did someone call it (Perfect name). I used to have a direct correlation between when I felt cramping how much of the CE I would find. Not so much now. Sometimes I feel as if my womb is just dropping. Julie, was that something you felt?
I did not want full abdominal surgery, but still, it’s a little terrifying because the recovery is unique for each woman. And the size of my fibroid made the procedure boarderline. I see my OB-GYN in a week. He’s new. I had to leave the old one because I didn’t trust her with a myomectomy. But that’s a whole nother story…
September 19, 2006 at 7:59 pm
Glad you found the site! As you say, the recovery is unique for each woman. Passing a fibroid is rare but, as you see, can occur. I just added Related Posts to the end of my original post. A good link is Gosh… My period turned out to be a question mark!. There you will find comments from other women post-UFE.
Keep posting if you have additional questions, thoughts, or concerns. Best wishes.
September 19, 2006 at 9:59 pm
Hi Everyone!!
Thank you all for writing here. It helps alot to know that I’m not alone. I had this procedure on Sept. 11th–got out the hospital on the 14th–and haven’t felt like myself since! The pain for me was so awful–I thought I was going to really die! They gave me 2-3x the amount of pain killers by pump & I thought my heart was going to stop! I got a second period within 10 days of finishing one–and the night sweats along with the mild fevers are worrying me. They told me that I had 2 large fibroids–the size of someone 4-5 months pregnant–too many others to count–and every type of fibroid. No one said if or when I should see the doctor after I left the hospital, so I feel like I’m just on my own.
Today– My head feels like I’m in the twilight zone!!
Teresa
September 19, 2006 at 10:05 pm
Oh–
And btw–I remember a lot of what happened “under sedation”–including talking about everyones children & calling “Mary” the nurse to give me more drugs!!
Teresa
September 20, 2006 at 12:56 am
Hi Teresa,
Go ahead and contact your doctor. Make sure to mention everything you described here plus any additional problems you are having. Just want to make sure some health care professionals know what’s going on so they can help you. Keep posting if you have other questions, concerns, or thoughts. We’ll be here.
(Everyone remembers something but me.)
September 20, 2006 at 10:07 am
Julia: That’s exactly what I expected and one of the reasons I ultimately chose to have the UFE procedure done! The “seven to 10 day recovery period” was a big sell for me, other than the fact that I have a problem with removing body parts if they are otherwise healthy. I also have very large and numerous fibroids and today is my one month follow-up. The first thing I’m saying to my radiologist is to forget the 7-10 feeling fine thing. It’s touch and go is all I can say. I’m no where near feeling 100%, but time is improving things. I fully expected to be back with my running/exercise, and back in full gear with work by now. (OH, AND back to fitting in to my clothes — I still have a distended abdomen — it fluctuates now between 37 and 40 inches — two weeks after the procedure it was 42 inches! Sorry, but that’s not fitting in to my size 8 pants and skirts, and my boss has a problem with me wearing my pajama bottoms in to the law office).
Call the radiologist/doctor’s office with everything you’re feeling. I ended up calling my doctor a week after because I just felt like crap (and after worrying about bothering such a busy, very important person). I ended up speaking with him pretty much every day for the next week, because I had a mild case of post-embolization syndrome.
I have a feeling that because we all are so different, they do appreciate any information on the recovery process that we can give them. It will help them relate better to future fibroid sufferers. (Which, from what I gather, seems like an epidemic to me. Forget worrying about bird flu).
I, too, am experiencing cramping/weird uterine sensations, lower back aches, mild nauseau, and low-grade temperatures periodically. I also started my first period on 9/13, and I’m just today starting to slow down on that flow! (It’s been one of the strangest, heaviest periods I’ve ever had.)
Just listen carefully to your body. Check your temperature, too. If there’s something wrong, our bodies usually have ways of telling us. Oh yeah, AND be really, really good to yourself; treat yourself as though you are being cared for by a favorite grandmother or something! Your favorite pajamas, your favorite book, movie, music, etc.
I’ll post my first post-UFE follow-up visit info tomorrow. (Wow. It’s a good thing this is not live and in person. I do tend to ramble, don’t I?).
September 20, 2006 at 4:56 pm
EclecticGeek, Aly, et al,
Again so glad you’re here. I so needed this support. Yeah the 7-10 days sounded really good. Honestly I was starting to get really paranoid about the whole thing. I was even starting to think it was just psychosomatic because I didn’t want to go back to work! (I woke up this morning nauseous and dizzy but forced myself to go to work. It’s crunch time. I’m home now. The cramps got worse.)
It’s so different from a healing process because it’s really a dying process. My mom (who came when I had the UFE and was here with me for 2 1/2 weeks, god bless her) wants me to write an article or something on this because so few people have even heard about this procedure, let alone the ins and outs of recovery.
Almost 5 weeks out, I’m still checking my temp at least once a day.(did I say ’starting’ to get paranoid before?) I only had a mild fever a few days after the procedure, none since then. Although… has anyone else felt their bellies or the thigh where they put the catheter in, get really hot, but you don’t have a tempature? And I had the digestion problem; I can only eat really small amounts of food or i’m in pain. See it’s so many little things…
September 20, 2006 at 11:05 pm
Julia,
Join the check the temperature crew (T-shirts….I saw we get T-shirts…Gossamer with a glass of ice tea in one had and a themometer in another LOL….) week 6 for me, back to work…dragging/achy….I am still checking my temperature….better safe than sorry I say……
Hot belly?? Well your procedure is different than mine but I also got “hot belly” for about 4 weeks post surgery…my thinking was inflamation…either from removing a ‘broid, stiches, healing a organ, “starving” a broid from its blood supply, dying ‘broids or injecting “foregin material” into the body….Its your bodies normal reaction ….inflamation……anti inflamatory (motrin) and a cold pack did the trick to “take the heat out” for me. If ‘Hot belly” does not go away…ask the doc about it…a temperature (higher or lower than normal (ie low grade temp) CAN be indicitive of a problem AND it can be nothing at all (ie I had no temp but an infection). Also remember, your hormone system (endocrine system to be exact) is in the process of re-adjusting. If you have ‘broids, your estogen levels are typcially elevated and other hormones are usually “out of wack” so the “fuuny feeling” nausea, digestive stuff may be related to your body re-adjusting. I am no doctor…. But again…if it dont feel right, is typically isnt…..ask the doc…
This IS the place to write that article about your journey. That is why EclecticGeek put “her” story and journey out there on the Web…….so other women can find this site and relate, relive, revive and relieve all the feelings, emotions, anger, pain, frustration, relief, joys, recovery, mildstones, rejuinaton , sharing and return to “normal” life.
OK lets be honest….where else…and if you are on this site reading these threads you have seached many a site to TRY and find real live stories from women who have been there or are gong through it(thanks EclecticGeek …this site is getting better and better Everyday…you are a busygeekbee..Heck I have to tune in almost everyday or I will miss something LOL)
You are so right…every recovery/procedure is so different …but the reason we are all here is one thing…..FIBROIDS….I am so gald to learn about other procedures in detail so I can educate other women friends out there in Fibroid land….friends who dont “google forums”…. and whew…I am not the only tired one dragging to work 6 weeks after surgery…
I personally saw a few (very few) posts somewhere on the internet that gave me a tiny look into the recovery aspect (for abdominal myomectomy …(ie bring pajams to the hospital and somethign to read – dont pick up more than 5 lbs or vacumn)….what???DUHH??? I wondered….what did they do while in the hosiptal??, how did you feel when you got home weeks later..Heck what was the first or second period like??? EVERYBODY talks about 1st 2 weeks….what about 5-6 7 weeks after a procedure… How ya feeling then??? !!! . I am glad I am able to read and “talk” (or ramble on if you all last long enough to read my long winded stories) on this site to help in any way, shape or form I can get that nitty gritty detail out there…..no double speak here on this site…I LOVE that we can say it like it is….
so anybody else out there in Abdominal myomectomy land…are you totally exhasted like me at week 6 – still feeling “funny” or ” pain-y” so days” is that “the healing process” ?? doc says yeah but hummm HE has never been though it….
ok getting off the soap box now… Hey I am gonna keep telling my recovery story so other women get informed…. ALL…..please do the same
September 21, 2006 at 1:55 am
Thanks everyone for the terrific comments! Leave it to the “geeks” to be 3 steps ahead of me. (LOL) I plan on putting up a “You” page soon (yet something else on my “things to do” list). It will have things you can do. Basically, instructions to tell your story to anyone who will listen (other women online, other women offline, health care professionals, politicians, news agencies, magazines, etc.). Of course, there will be a comment section to leave your ideas and tell us what you’re doing to get the word out. Stay tuned.
Julia, Aly Fibroids, and Teresa:
I started another thread in the Forum for post-UFE stuff. It’s labeled quite clearly so women new to the site can get right to it:
How are you feeling after your Uterine Fibroid Embolization?
fibroid free:
Up next will be a similar one for Abdominal Myomectomy. Yay! Oh, and for those wondering, here’s Gossamer. Another plug for my toilet paper post. (LOL)
September 21, 2006 at 7:20 pm
fibroid free,
The Abdominal Myomectomy recovery thread is up.
September 22, 2006 at 4:57 am
Hello all, after talking with several colleagues about their experiences with fibroids and procedures, invasive and non-invasive, I decided along with my OB/GYN on the UFE as a viable alternative to a hysterectomy. My procedure was performed on 9-11 (I was concerned about the date) at 10:00AM and the actual procedure took about an hour and five minutes. During the procedure, I was under local anesthesia, so I was aware of my surroundings, as well as the conversations and what appeared to be a number of people in the room. I attempted to participate in the staff’s conversation but apparently was not very successful. After the surgery, I stayed in the hospital overnight, (I was told that this was an outpatient procedure, but an overnight stay was required for observation). My husband stayed with me in the hospital and assisted me with my second walk session at 3:30AM in the morning. My first walk was about five hours after surgery. I did not have any pain during the walks, however, I was weak during the first walk naturally and nauseated during both walks from the pain pump medication Morphine (I believe). My first meal was an all liquid diet of which I immediately lost, and was given medication for nausea which helped temporarily. I was taken off of the pump and given Percocet for pain and felt better. I was released from the hospital the next morning around 10:00. I was very sick and ill feeling until the Morphine was out of my system. I felt better but I was still feeling weak from the medication so I slept the rest of the day. On the third day, my husband went back to work, fixed me a light breakfast, and I was on my own with numerous phone calls from friends, family, and my radiologist’s office. I slept for the most part and the most activity was taking a slow walk down the stairs to answer the door for a flower delivery. On my fourth day, I was up and around, checking emails (work and personal) from my laptop in bed. My husband and I went out to dinner for Mexican food when he returned from work and I felt just “okay”. I did not have my appetite back but at least I was able to eat and keep it down. On my fifth day, I was so wired up, as I stopped taking the pain medication and was just taking the anti-inflammatory medication. I was trying to do so many things around the house that I had to really control myself. I felt my normal self by Saturday and felt like carrying out my normal routines. I am now at the end of week two, I have returned to my normal lifestyle with the exception of going to work and the gym. I feel great and would recommend this procedure to anyone based on my experience so far. My recovery time was fast, I am returning to work next week, and I can see and feel a different in my abdomen. I had minimal, very light bleeding and believe that I may have passed a few small fibroids. When I followed up earlier this week with my nurse, we discussed the post-procedure. To explain it in simple terms, as for the fibroids that were passed, the shrinking of the fibroids can be compared to that of a grape shrinking to the size of a raisin.
September 24, 2006 at 8:55 pm
Happy to hear your recovery is going so well. Yay! I’m impressed by the Mexican food on the 4th day.
I have set up a post-UFE thread in the Forum. Feel free to post comments there or anywhere else on the site. I appreciate you sharing your story. Every comment is helpful. Take care and keep us updated!
September 26, 2006 at 3:23 pm
Hi,
I had my UFE on sept 14. I experienced extreme pain within 2.5 hours from the procedue. They gave me morphin and Toradol to help with the inflamation. The pain got progressively better so the next afternoon I was discharged with a prescription for painkillers and recommendation to see my gyne in about 2 months.
When I got home that day I had no pain but a lot of discomfort from the foley catheter. I had to go to the bathroom every 10 minutes.
Today is day 11th since the procedure. I’ve been on/off work depending on how I’m feeling. Two days ago I had extreme cramping and bloating. Yesterday I had the chills and a fever
of 38.0 C. No appetite and lots of lower backaches. I am also having a constant discharge.
After reading all of your emails I’m realizing that the pain and symptoms seem to change a lot. They are not consistent in terms of getting progressively better with time. The pain seems to fluctuate from being ok to sudden onsets of it.
Well, all I have to say is…this better be worth it.
September 26, 2006 at 8:45 pm
There’s a thread in the Forum where women are posting their post-UFE experiences:
How are feeling after your Uterine Fibroid Embolization?
Please call your doctor and describe all you have talked about here. With the fever, I am concerned that you may have an infection. I’ll also include the Forum thread for that:
Has anyone had a postoperative infection after a fibroid procedure?
The pain and symptoms will vary. Read the threads and talk to your doctor. That way your symptoms can be addressed.
Hang on and please keep us updated.
September 27, 2006 at 2:31 pm
Hi Everyone!
Thanks for being here. I did contact my doctor & went in for a visit. She gave me head exercise for the vertigo and fuzziness but this is 16 days later–and the feling is still here. I had it since I left the hospital but they kep telling me that it had nothing to do with the procedure. I think it has more to do with the drugs & the high amount I was given for pain afterwards!. This is really strange. I’ve become really clumpsy and that is so NOT like me. It’s like I’m here & not quite here at the same time! Anyone deal with this one? Thanks so much for all your help !
Teresa
September 27, 2006 at 5:50 pm
Thank you so much for your advise. I feel way better today! I have not seen a doctor yet since my fever went away and so did the cramps. Maybe I needed to rest and take it easy. I think sometimes we forget we are still recovering and we try to push ourselves further than we should. I will listen to my body a lot more now and will keep an eye on my temperature if I notice any changes.
I sure appreciate being able to communicate and read about other women going through a similar recovery. Other than this website, I don’t think there is much else out there in terms of advise, statistic reports, etc.
Thank you for keeping in touch.
September 29, 2006 at 1:00 am
Teresa:
Sorry you are still having problems with vertigo. I felt weird that first night in the hospital but was OK after that. You can add a comment in the post-UFE thread. Maybe someone there has an experience. Glad you’ve seen your doctor. At least they know about your problem. Please keep us updated.
Elizabeth:
Whew. I was a little nervous when you said fever. Good news that the fever and cramps went away. Make sure you are getting plenty of rest and let us know how you’re getting on.
I will say to both of you, I appreciate you sharing. As long as women come here to talk, I’ll do my best to respond. Thanks again.
September 29, 2006 at 3:34 pm
I had my UFE on August 29th, 2006. I’ve been spotting and cramping mildly on and off ever since. Sometimes it is bright red but most of the time it is brownish and thick. Is this the fibroid still dying? I’ve only had one period since the procedure and it was just as heavy as normal. I should be getting my second one soon so we will see how it goes. I still don’t feel 100% but so far so good.
September 29, 2006 at 3:36 pm
By the way I remember absolutely everything that happened during my procedure and my pain/cramping started before I even got out of the surgery suite. Do you think this is unusual?
September 29, 2006 at 4:35 pm
Teresa:
. Keep on this issue until you find a cause because if it dont feel right it usually isnt…
Hope you can resolve the vertigo – you dont need one more thing on top of revcovery
Elizabeth: fever is the body’s defense mechanism …so glad that fever is down….
Camille – take your time a recovery -its only been 4 weeks right???
Ya know so gald for this site…women can find informaton on procdeures adn what to expect but its the period after surgery that does not get discussed -THE GREY ZONE. Doc tells you the published/expected recovery period or what you may expereicne but remember the recovery time provided by doctors is an average….average age of a women getting the procedure, average weeks of recovery… and recovery is also influenced by your environment (stress slows the healing process) diet, are you getting the right and enough nutrition, sleep (you heal when you sleep – if you are not sleeping well your healing may be slowed), your activity level- I know most women multitask and we sometimes cant follow all the rest and recovery instructions we are given … When you go back for a follow up appointment and bring up an issue…your doctor isnt in there jotting it down to tell the next patient to expect this or that…. these post and many other experience help to build the database of THE GREY ZONE all the things that are not listed as “post op recovery, side effects or complications”
Hope everyone allows themselves the time to recover…remember the fibroids didnt grow in a day or a week – it was a process – so their demise is a process as well…..
September 29, 2006 at 9:26 pm
I had my ufe 16 months ago. I went to the doctor to get a check up and pap smear and he told me my fibroids were gone. I missed a period this month can I be pregnant at age 43.
October 2, 2006 at 12:31 pm
Hey Tioga: You go girl!! That’s exactly the results that us other UFE girls are looking for! Not that I want to dredge up any terrible memories, but by any chance are you one of the lucky ones that actually recovered from the UFE in the allusive “7 to 10 day” recovery period? Because I know I’m not one of those and I think there are others out here who are going through some pretty awful stuff from the UFE. I’m just hoping it’ll turn out to be a “7 to 10 WEEK” recovery and not a “7 to 10 MONTH” recovery! By any chance do you remember how long it was after the UFE procedure that you were feeling okay? (P.S. if you are having sex — lucky girl — heck yes you can be pregnant at 43!).
October 3, 2006 at 9:01 am
Aly Fibroids,
I was talking to one of my freinds last wek who had UFE a while ago and it took her 6-8 weeks before she felt better…she was off work for that length of time and had to take percocet for a while (she said she was packed tight up to her neck being constipated taking so many pain killers LOL). WOW I thought (I am on week 8 Ab Myo and still feeling just ok some days). She had really big/multiple broids so I think the 7-10 days rush back to work and run a 20 mile marathon post UFE may be for the folks with small fibroids??? anyway…hope that gives some persecpective that you arent the only one on the other side of the bell curve…..
tioga – yes you can absolutly be preggers….my sister had her baby and she was 42. My best freinds mom – she was 45 when she had her…. on the flip side….also you may be beginning peri-menapause- my older sister started missing a few period here and there (she is 45) like that…
October 3, 2006 at 10:41 am
Fibroid Free: Arrrgghhh! I knew it! I knew that 7 to 10 day crap could not be for everyone! I am still kicking myself, too, for telling my bosses about that 7 to 10 day stuff and then coming back to work a week after the UFE (dragging my feverish, tired, cranky, bloated/swollen FREAKISHLY LARGE UTERUS self in every freakin’ day). Yeah, that gives me perspective, all right!
October 8, 2006 at 4:34 pm
Camille:
I think discharge post-UFE is pretty common. Seems as though there is a wide range of colors. Mine lasted about 10 days, moderate flow, was quite light in color, and kind of thick. You didn’t mention fever so I don’t think infection was an issue. Remember, if you ever feel really, really concerned, call your doctor. At least he/she will know what’s going on.
It would not be unusual to feel pain immediately after the procedure. Fibroids consist of your living tissue (even though they look more like some weird alien life form that somehow latched on). UFE blocks their blood/oxygen/nutrient supply. You will feel the reaction.
Please keep us updated on your condition (especially that 2nd period) by posting here or on this thread:
How are you feeling after your Uterine Fibroid Embolization?
fibroid free:
I was commenting somewhere else on this site over the need for a database. You are right about THE GREY ZONE. Post-op stuff isn’t really talked about. Women are left feeling crazy or freaky (wink to Aly Fibroids’ FREAKISHLY LARGE UTERUS) for not fitting into the recovery time.
tioga:
Ding-Dong, the fibroids are dead! Yay! As others have stated, it’s possible that you are pregnant.
Aly Fibroids:
For some reason, some (not us) are just looking at a part of the bell curve. 7-10 days is probably that middle section. Biostatistics has that whole “degrees of freedom” and “statistically significant” vibe that sometimes leaves people out in the cold. Even if 95% fall into that 7-10 day recovery period, out of 1000 women, 50 wouldn’t. Somebody needs to say that there’s an X% chance that you won’t fit nicely under the recovery curve and here is what’s in place should that happen.
——————-
You ladies keep me on my soapbox, huh? Or perhaps I should say we are ALL on a very large one!
November 10, 2006 at 8:44 pm
I had UFE done a month ago, and 2 days ago, i had bad cramping, and I still have the cramps today… Is that normal? I know they said it is normal lto get cramping after UFE but it is intense and very sore….Has anyone else had that happen a month after there ufe?
Heidi
November 10, 2006 at 8:52 pm
Hi Heidi,
Please visit here:
How are you feeling after your Uterine Fibroid Embolization?
There are more recent comments in that post. The embolization procedure produces a fibroid shrinking/dying process that may last many months. It will depend on the sizes and locations of the fibroids. The recovery isn’t quite as cut and dry as the “7-10 days” that is quoted. I seem to have fallen in that window but others haven’t. Check the post and feel free to add any additional questions or comments there.
November 11, 2006 at 9:05 am
hi,
first of all thanks to alllllll of you for sharing your experiences with ufe. my gynie suggested i get this procdeure done. i met with the radiologist dr. who would be doing this, saying i was a good candidate for this he said i have 1 fibroid about 4inches on the left side and 3 smaller ones on the right side in my uterus. and i have felt pressure mostly on my bowel. my problem is ~i have been taking a enzyme called fibrovan for about 6 months and it seems to help at least my gyni sez the fibroids are’nt any bigger in fact seem to be a little smaller. i’m 57 years young(smile) and in very good shape, working out every other day at our wellness center. and watching my diet. i was hoping with the natural process of menapause the fibroids would eventually shrink on their own.my periods have already stopped. of course really don’t want to do this at all as i’m sure do one does. especially after reading your experiences!but also my mom passed away from ovaian cancer,sooooo needless to say i am very concerned. i was just wondering if anyone is in this dilema?
thanks and good luck to you all.
elaine :>)
November 11, 2006 at 1:59 pm
Hi elaine,
Here are a few other places you can visit on this site:
How are you feeling after your Uterine Fibroid Embolization?
More recent post-UFE comments can be found there. Come join us.
Is there a natural alternative therapy or treatment for uterine fibroids?
Since you have experience with Fibrovan, feel free to talk about it.
Are uterine fibroid tumors a sign of cancer?
Sorry to hear about your mother. Uterine fibroid tumors are benign. The chance of them being cancerous is rare (about 0.1%).
The decision to do something about your fibroids is a matter of weighing risk vs. benefit. Discuss this with your doctors. For me, there was no way I was going to continue to live my hell of a life. The fibroids were in control. I was so anemic that I spent just about all day every day on my couch. I felt faint constantly. I couldn’t go anywhere or do anything not only because I was just that weak but couldn’t take the chance of a flooding event out in public. Doctors were encouraging me to go to the ER for blood transfusions. I FEARED my periods. I actually lived in fear. After being raised to fear no man, I was afraid of me and my own body. To end that nightmare, I researched my treatment options thoroughly and picked the one that was best for me. I was looking forward to my UFE because I knew it would be the last step in my treatment “Master Plan” that would change my life for the better.
Now, having said all that, you have to decide what is right for you. Talk to your doctors to make sure none of the fibroids are pressing against anything vital. Then, decide if you want to do anything about your symptoms or if you want to ride it out. I see you take good care of yourself and you ARE young.
Just remember, at any time, you deserve to feel better. I let stuff ride for years and wish I would have remembered that. Don’t know if I would have gotten treatment any sooner but, at least, it would have been in the back of my mind. You have options.
Good luck to you as well.
November 11, 2006 at 9:09 pm
hey everyone… I had UFE on Oct 2nd and wow the past 3 days i have been cramping soooo bad i am on pain killers…. I thoought within 10 days i would feel better, and i did for 3 weeks up until 3 days ago. I relise the Fiboid is shrinking and all, but is that right? normal? to Cramp so severe.. I thought maybe i had an infection, i really can’t tell….. all I know is that I am one Big Cramp…. i am going to call the Doc on Mon to make sure this is normal, it is scaring me… I am sure it is just the fibroid shrinking, but it can be quite intense….
November 12, 2006 at 12:47 am
Hi Heidi,
I don’t know the answer to your question, but I had my UFE on August 18th and I still have occational cramping, and bad cramping at that. I also get this weird sort of wave affect feeling, that isn’t cramping, but is like just my uterus is nauseous and dizzy, but not the rest of me. I now have really bad cramps and nausea just before my periods. I didn’t have that before.
All that said, Call your doctor. I can’t tell you how many times I called my doctor in the first month.
Julia
November 13, 2006 at 5:06 pm
Heidi:
Sorry you are dealing with bad cramps. The fibroid is shrinking but, because the UFE cuts off the blood supply, it is also dying. Some die quietly. Others put up a bit of a fuss. Recovery after UFE is a process that takes several months depending on fibroid size, location, and number. I hope you can reach your doctor soon.
Julia:
I totally agree with you. Call your doctor anytime you feel there is a problem.
November 13, 2006 at 6:48 pm
thank you for your responses…
this is the 2nd month in a row i did not require a blood transfusion…… 
i called my doc and i have an appt this Fri, i still have the cramps today, this is day 5 I believe. I have a huge fibroid the size of my Uterus, so I am thinking maybe it is putting up a Fuss.. My first period after UFE was so llight, this time round is is not so iight, it is actually odd, one day i am bleeding the next i am not… i guess it willl be like this for a few months, how ever my hemoglobin has gone up for the first time, so i am very happy about that… it was at 58 and now is at 92
November 14, 2006 at 4:39 pm
Yeah, you have a lot going on in there. The fibroids are a living part of you that must shrink and die. It’s definitely a process. On a positive note, I am extremely happy over your hemoglobin news. I also previously suffered from severe anemia so I am smiling ear to ear. Yay!
Glad you reached your doctor. Keep us updated.
November 17, 2006 at 6:38 pm
well i found out today, the reason for all the cramping is due to the fact that my fibroid is so big, it shrinking, and hurting a bit, the doc said she could feel the difference on my tummy, and that it is all normal…. wooohooooo!!!!
that made me happy. I guess it is just gonna take some time and a lot of cramping lol to get rid of this Fibroid.. I will keep you posted…………:)
November 19, 2006 at 5:19 pm
Three cheers for things being normal! It may take some time and be painful but…
THE FIBROID IS SHRINKING!
November 22, 2006 at 8:35 pm
Just found this website and am so glad. I am thinking of either an UFE or MRgFUS. The posts on the UFE sound a little scary. My fibroid is large 17.5cm and i also have 4 others. Is it common in all women to experince such pain, cramping, fever after UFE? Alsodoes the fibroid always come out through the vagina or can they be absorbed by the body? The radiologist I spoke with said nothing of the symptoms I have read about here, in fact made it sound somewhat easy.
November 24, 2006 at 5:17 pm
Hi Krista,
Glad you found the site. Pain and cramping for several hours after the procedure is pretty much standard. It’s the recovery afterwards that will vary.
Here’s a link that talks about recovery in general:
Uterine Fibroid Embolization recovery
Here’s one of the many posts that talks about my recovery:
Two weeks after my Uterine Fibroid Embolization
Basically, 12 hours of intense pain, a couple of days of moderate pain managed with over-the-counter Motrin, mostly mucus-like discharge for about 10 days, and a week of constipation.
I also suggest:
How are you feeling after your Uterine Fibroid Embolization?
Post-UFE experiences from women several weeks and months later. You will get a better picture.
The recovery will depend on the size, location, and number of fibroids. That’s why it can be so different for different women. The risk of infection or passing a fibroid is not common but it is a possibility. I’m sorry if you were frightened by something here. I try very hard not to spread fear. I want women to be informed and not afraid. EVERY treatment option has its pros and cons. You must weigh the risks vs. benefits. Personally, I have no regrets.
If you have other questions or concerns, please leave comments here but remember you can also talk to the radiologist.
December 18, 2006 at 11:54 am
I am so happy I found this site. I was told about my broids a year and a half ago and tried to revise my diet (not much success), and tried accupuncture. I also exercise a lot. Anyway, the broids, with the largest at 3mm, has grown to 4mm.
I met with a radiologist who said that I am a good candidate for UFE. However, I was concerned because he recommended 2 week recovery– but after reading the message on this site I see why now.
My other worry is that I am 49 and expect that the broid will shrink when I enter menopause. Should I put off this painful UFE and continue to put up with painful periods from hell, and anemia caused by the broids?
BTW I live in Chicago, IL.
December 18, 2006 at 6:17 pm
Hi Marva,
Glad you found us! You have to decide if the pros of seeking treatment outweigh the cons of continuing to put up with your symptoms.
Once it got to the point where I no longer wanted to deal with my heavy, clotty, anemia-inducing periods, I asked for help. I didn’t just want to treat my symptoms. I wanted to deal with the fibroids directly. My treatment plan started in February and didn’t end until July (3 months of Lupron shots, a Hysteroscopic Myomectomy, and the UFE). I would do it ALL again in a heartbeat. I just made a “Was it worth it?” comment in another post that I’ll quote here:
December 29, 2006 at 11:03 pm
I had my UFE surgery on Dec. 18 and after an ovenight stay, left the hospital feeling hopeful and just slightly fatigued. Since that time, I’ve had more bleeding than passing of clots, though I’ve had a few of those, just not that large. I think since mine were small, submucusal (?) fibroids, the pain has been minimal (or maybe that’s just my situation), but I am having a prolonged period, which is worrisome. I wouldn’t even call it a menstrual cycle, but after calling my physician’s assistant twice about my worries, she reassured me it was my period and that it would be this way for the next 2-3 months.
It’s too early to say if I’m relieved from this surgery – but, I was at my wit’s end, too, like many of the posts have mentioned in this blog. I had severe bleeding/anemia/discomfort/embarassment for too long. I’ve also had two myomectomy surgeries. I am hopeful that this UFE procedure will prove beneficial. I asked for a three week leave from work, but I would take an extra week if possible. The surgery was not painful, for me, but the recovery has been more troublesome, if only because of the fatigue and this prolonged bleeding.
If anyone has input or words to reassure me, I would appreciate it. Thanks for this blog/or forum, too! Much needed when many people (including myself) feel alone in this problem.
December 29, 2006 at 11:32 pm
I should add that the bleeding/clots has not been heavy, just consistent. This might be my period or just general,discharge with passing clots? Not sure. I hope it eases in a few days. Peace and best wishes for the New Year, to everyone.
December 30, 2006 at 6:39 pm
Hi eyelash,
Glad your UFE is over and done. I know I sound like a broken record but your recovery will depend on the size, location, and number of fibroids. This will determine things such as the amount of pain you have and the amount of blood you pass. Hard to say what is “normal” because every case is a little different. The fatigue could still be an anemia issue. Mine had to be fully corrected before my UFE because I had another fibroid procedure about a month before. Not sure how yours is being addressed but that’s a possibility. Since you are recovering from a procedure, even borderline will add to your tiredness.
Words of reassurance:
You suffered through severe symptoms. You said “enough already” and decided to do something about it. You care enough about your health to talk to your PA about your concerns plus search online for information. You posted here.
I cannot tell you how long your recovery will be or what will occur during the process. I can say you are definitely not alone. Call your PA again if you become overly concerned but feel free to come here and post your questions or thoughts. We’ll be here. Glad the site helps.
Best wishes with your recovery. Have a wonderful New Year!
January 1, 2007 at 12:34 am
Hi EclecticGeek – Thanks for your reassurance and Happy New Year to you, too!
I was slightly anemic (11.1) before surgery and on extra iron (Repliva) pills, which I continue to take. Sinc the bleeding continues with some clotting, I guess this is part and parcel for recovery. I am the only one within my circle of friends/associates who has had this severe bleeding issue, so I am tired of being tired and freakish, you know?? So, thank you for your kind words. Today, I regretted the UFE surgery, because I didn’t know the cycle/bleeding issue would be prolonged – but, as you wrote, it depends on each person. In a way, I wish that I had a partial hysterectomy, to take care of it and also, because I do not necessarily want children. But, I thought the UFE would be a the best option for me now, since I’m in my late 30s. It will be a few months or more before I can say this was a success, so fingers crossed for now and I hope to see some improvement on the bleeding issue soon.
Thanks again and best for 2007!
January 2, 2007 at 1:22 pm
still not sure if this was the best choice for me – on day 13 of a very long period (?) that does not seem to improve. i have two calls into doctors today, but i feel angry and discouraged. i would suggest to everyone that they check on follow-up care and treatment after surgery. i had an excellent doctor, but feel abandoned at this point. they could be more helpful.
January 2, 2007 at 3:59 pm
Hi eyelash,
Sorry you are still dealing with the bleeding problems. I hope you hear from your doctor soon.
UFE recovery is a process. For some women, it takes longer. I’ll leave a link to the post-UFE recovery thread so you can view a few more experiences:
How are you feeling after your Uterine Fibroid Embolization?
I know it’s frustrating but hang in there. Visit the link listed above and keep posting your concerns. There are other women going through similar things. You are not alone.
January 3, 2007 at 10:11 am
I had the procedure done on November 24, 2006 and I am still not feeling like myself. The next day after the procedure I had severe cramping, I was sure that it was labor pains. I have had some lower back pain and I am taking motrin for those. I am only 5 1/2 week in though so hopefully I will start to feel better in a couple of weeks. I am sure that this is the effects from the shrinkage of the fibroids.
January 3, 2007 at 6:47 pm
Hi tonya,
Thanks for sharing your experience. The pain can be intense in the beginning. Sometimes it takes a little time to feel normal again but I’m happy that you seem to be over the intense pain. Please continue to post if you have questions or additional thoughts.
I wish you the best as you continue to recover!
January 12, 2007 at 11:31 pm
My doc has suggested UFE or a hysteroctomy, I don’t know which to choose. Is one better then the other, after listening to your post on the recovery.
January 14, 2007 at 6:52 pm
Hi justme,
The best treatment for you will depend on your case (size, number, and location of fibroids). All treatments have risks and benefits. I picked UFE because I didn’t want major surgery. I made sure to learn as much as I could about it. Fibroid size and location are key considerations with UFE. I was concerned about the fibroid that sat on the outside of my uterus attached by a stalk (pedunculated subserosal). The IR told me that because of the size of the stalk that one would be okay and was more concerned over two smaller ones on the inside (submucosal). He thought those two would possibly detach post-UFE, get lodged internally, and become infected. I couldn’t have the UFE until those they were “shaved down”.
Talk to your doctor about size, location, and the possible happenings of your fibroids post-UFE. Don’t automatically assume that a less invasive procedure = shorter/easier recovery. It will depend on the fibroids. My 10-day UFE recovery was pretty easy (not much cramping or bleeding, just constipation) but for some women it is harder and takes longer.
I have a post that talks about treatment options. There are sections on UFE and hysterectomy plus links to other posts about specific treatments:
Just what are your uterine fibroid tumor treatment options?
I’ll also leave the specific one for UFE:
How are you feeling after your Uterine Fibroid Embolization?
Keep posting if you have other questions. It’s not just you. You aren’t alone.
January 27, 2007 at 12:07 am
I had the UFE procedure on Jan. 17th, 2007, after two myomectomies, 7 years apart from each other. I’m in my early 40s.
I thought I’d be pain free in 3 to 5 days after the procedure. In reality, I was in extreme pain every day for 8 straight days, including pain down the front of my thighs, lower back, sides and front of my abdomen. I used all of the precribed pain meds and had to contact my doctor to call in another medication. During the 8 days, I used my electric heating pad 24-hours-a-day. I experienced some mild bleeding that started 2 days after the procedure, but I’m sure that there’s more to come.
It’s Day 9 and I finaly feel some relief from the meds. I am now only slightly uncomfortable. I still need to take Motrin a few times a day. I’m still feeling bloated and generally like I’m carrying around a bowling ball.
On a positive note, my appetite has been cut in half. I seriously hope that the loss of appetite loss continues. Did I mention that before the UFE, I had 20 fibroids?
I’m wondering if there’s anyone else who experienced this much pain or if there are other women with this many fibroids.
I thank you for sharing your story and for starting this blog. It means the world to so many women, including me.
January 31, 2007 at 8:19 pm
Hi FreddiFibroids,
Sorry you are experiencing so much pain. The UFE procedure blocks the fibroid’s blood supply. The fibroid shrinks because it is dying. Larger fibroids or a higher number of fibroids may result in a longer recovery. To read more UFE experiences, see this post:
How are you feeling after your Uterine Fibroid Embolization?
Continuing on your positive note, I’ve also noticed that I eat less now post-UFE.
Glad you found the site and it’s helpful to you! Don’t hesitate to post any other concerns you have. Take care.
[Edited to add: I also have a post on needing multiple fibroid procedures (I needed 2). Feel free to post there as well.]
February 24, 2007 at 1:12 pm
I’am in so much pain I dont know what to do! I was diagnosed with 3 golfball sized fibroid tumors my Doctor wants to give me a partial hysterectomy I’m done having childen so dont know what to do or where this horrible pain is coming from help jeannie
February 24, 2007 at 7:55 pm
Hi jeannie,
I’m sorry you are in so much pain. The fibroids can cause pain if they are pressing against other organs or can cause back pain. They also can cause severe menstrual cramps.
I have a page that talks about symptoms. I’ll also leave the one that talks about anemia in case that is a concern:
Uterine fibroid symptoms (not my idea of fun)
Uterine fibroid tumors and anemia?
Here is the page on this site that talks about treatment options. It will have links to other pages where women are discussing their post-op experiences including hysterectomy:
Just what are your uterine fibroid tumor treatment options?
You can also check the Forum page for a list of other discussions on the site.
You are not alone. There are other women here who are talking about the same things. Check those pages and keep posting if you have other concerns.