Advitiya Vascular Centre · Patient education · Published 1 November 2026
Do uterine fibroids always need surgery? No. Symptom-free fibroids may need observation. When treatment is needed, options include medicines, myomectomy, hysterectomy and, for selected patients, uterine artery embolisation. Symptoms, fibroid location and future pregnancy plans all matter. Sources 1 and 2.
What are uterine fibroids?
Fibroids are non-cancerous growths arising from the muscle of the uterus. They vary in size, number and position. A fibroid seen on a scan is not automatically the cause of every pelvic symptom or a reason for an operation. Sources 1 and 2.
Can fibroids cause heavy periods, pressure or frequent urination?
Yes. Fibroids can be associated with heavy or painful periods, pelvic discomfort and pressure on nearby organs. Heavy bleeding can lead to anaemia. Other conditions can produce similar symptoms, so assessment should not stop at the scan finding. Sources 1 and 2.
Which scans and tests might I need?
Ultrasound commonly identifies fibroid size, number and location. MRI may help with detailed treatment planning, including embolisation assessment. Tests for anaemia and investigation of abnormal bleeding may also be appropriate. Bring the actual scan images as well as the report. Sources 1 and 3.
Does every fibroid need treatment?
No. A fibroid without troublesome symptoms may be observed. Treatment becomes a discussion when bleeding, pain, pressure or other problems affect health or daily life. There is no single size threshold that chooses the best treatment for every person. Sources 1 and 2.
What is the difference between myomectomy and hysterectomy?
Myomectomy removes fibroids while keeping the uterus. Hysterectomy removes the uterus and ends the possibility of carrying a pregnancy. Medicines and procedures offer other options in selected circumstances. A gynaecologist should help compare these choices in the context of your goals. Sources 1 and 2.
What is uterine artery embolisation, also called UAE or UFE?
An interventional radiologist guides a thin catheter into arteries supplying the fibroids and delivers particles to reduce their blood supply. The fibroids then shrink over time. It preserves the uterus but does not remove the fibroids surgically or suit everyone. Source 3.
Who should assess whether embolisation is suitable?
The decision should include gynaecological evaluation and an interventional-radiology assessment. Scan findings, bleeding, other possible diagnoses, medical conditions and reproductive plans guide selection. Uterus-preserving treatment is not automatically fertility-preserving treatment. Sources 2, 3 and 4.
Can I become pregnant after fibroid embolisation?
Pregnancy can occur, but embolisation should not be presented as a guarantee of preserved fertility or a straightforward first choice when pregnancy is a priority. Its effects on fertility and future pregnancy need careful discussion alongside alternatives such as myomectomy where appropriate. State your pregnancy plans before choosing treatment. Sources 2 and 4.
What risks and recovery should I discuss?
Cramping and discomfort after embolisation can require pain control and observation. Risks include infection, access-site bleeding, unintended effects on other tissue, changes to ovarian function and the possibility of further treatment. Hospital stay and return to activities vary; ask for an individual recovery and follow-up plan. Sources 3 and 4.
Will I need follow-up if my symptoms improve?
Yes. Follow-up assesses symptom change and treatment response, with imaging when appropriate. Persistent bleeding, new symptoms or an incomplete response need reassessment rather than assuming treatment has permanently solved every problem. Sources 3 and 4.
What should I bring for an embolisation opinion?
Bring ultrasound or MRI images and reports, recent blood tests, a menstrual and symptom history, details of previous gynaecological treatment and your medication list. Tell the team about pregnancy plans and any possibility of a current pregnancy.
Where can I arrange an assessment in Bengaluru?
For interventional-radiology consultation, ask for Dr Naveen Chandrashekhar, Vascular & Interventional Radiologist, at Advitiya Vascular Centre, No. 99, Ground Floor, 6th Main Road, 40th Cross, Jayanagar 5th Block, Bengaluru 560041.
Monday–Saturday, 4:30–7:30 PM IST; Sunday closed. Call +91 96327 83001 to confirm the appointment and bring your scan images and reports. Contact and directions. Procedures requiring hospital facilities are coordinated separately after assessment.
Read about interventional-radiology consultation for fibroids. A consultation at Advitiya does not replace ongoing gynaecological care.
Sources and further reading
- NHS: Fibroids
- Office on Women’s Health: Uterine fibroids
- ACR/RSNA RadiologyInfo: Uterine fibroid treatment
- UCLH: Uterine artery/fibroid embolisation
- ACOG: Abnormal uterine bleeding
- NHS: Pelvic pain and urgent symptoms
Sources checked 1 November 2026. The suitability of treatment and pregnancy advice require individual assessment.