Uterine fibroid embolization is used to eliminate or reduce the size of uterine fibroids. A catheter is a tiny, flexible tube inserted by your doctor into a vein in your groin or arm. The doctor will inject a solution into the catheter to stop the blood supply to the fibroids. Every day following uterine fibroid embolization Houston, TX, should bring improved symptoms.
The nurse will provide you with individualized discharge instructions and medication. The following is a guideline on what to expect during recovery:
Pain
For many days following the treatment, it is common to have crampy stomach discomfort, akin to a hefty menstrual cycle. Vicodin, Percocet, or any narcotic painkiller, should assist with the discomfort, and many women find that a heated pad is soothing as well.
Discharge and bleeding
Some bleeding or spotting for a month or perhaps longer is expected. Those whose symptoms included heavy bleeding find that their bleeding is significantly reduced after surgery. Your menstruation may be delayed by one or two cycles on rare occasions. If you have discharge with a foul odor, it is essential to see a doctor since this may be a sign of infection.
Diet
If you have diabetes, cardiovascular disease, or kidney illness, and your doctor has put you on a special diet, please keep eating as you have been. No special diet is required, although eating too quickly after fasting might make you unwell. You should start with tiny portions and avoid fatty meals at first. In most cases, embolization causes just minor nausea.
Activity
- When you are exhausted, take a break. Get some sleep, and you will feel much better in no time.
- Before getting your doctor’s approval, you should not conduct strenuous activity or move anything weighing more than 4.5 kg (around 10 lb). It might last for a few days. Light work, such as cooking, may be performed as you stroll about the home.
- Make an effort to get some exercise by walking every day. Just increasing your walking distance from the previous day is an excellent place to start. Gradually lengthen your daily strolls.
- Don’t use the stairs for a few days if you have a catheter inserted into your groin.
- If the catheter is in your arm, avoid anything that can restrict blood flow to that area:
- Don’t do anything that requires bending your arm or wrist, such as using a computer, checking your blood pressure, or starting an IV, for at least 24 hours following the surgery.
- For the next five days following surgery, you should avoid putting too much weight on the treated arm and use that hand while getting in and out of chairs and beds. Nothing heavier than 2 kilograms should be lifted, carried, or pushed with this arm (5 lb.).
- In the first four weeks, you should refrain from intense physical activity.
- You are free to take a shower. Please wait a few days or see your doctor before getting into the tub.
- Find out from your doctor when it is safe to get behind the wheel again.
- It will help if you plan on missing work for at least a week. It is all relative to the tasks and how you feel that day.
- Your doctor will inform you when you may resume having sex.
If you are considering UFE as a minimally invasive option for treating uterine fibroids, knowing what to anticipate during recovery will help you make an informed decision.
