What Women Should Know About the Differences Between UFE and Hysterectomy

Medically reviewed by: Jeffrey Conaway, MD

Many women with uterine fibroids are told that hysterectomy is their only option. Clinical treatments follow a path of simple non-invasive approaches and working up through invasive complex treatments that involve more recovery and have more complications. While a hysterectomy can be effective, it is a final solution and for many, it should be the final one. After conservative treatments are ineffective, there are several minimally invasive treatments that can be used to treat fibroids without excluding hysterectomy as an eventual treatment. (UFE) is a non-surgical treatment for fibroids with proven effectiveness that preserves the uterus, avoids lengthy hospital stays, and allows for a fast recovery.

Understanding the differences between UFE and hysterectomy can help you make an informed and confident decision about your health.

Differences Between UFE and Hysterectomy

Hysterectomy is a major surgical procedure where the entire uterus is removed. This permanently treats fibroids because they can’t return without the uterus. But this surgery means the woman cannot have kids and will require a long time to heal. The experience a patient has, covering pain, incision size, scarring, and healing duration, is based on whether the surgery is done through the abdomen, vagina, or using laparoscopic methods.

Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) is another option. Instead of removing the uterus, UFE cuts off the blood supply to the fibroids, which causes them to shrink and disappear. This procedure requires only a small incision, made by an interventional radiologist, in an outpatient setting. Many women can return to work within a week, and the uterus stays in place.

Key Differences

UFE preserves the uterus, benefiting hormone levels, pelvic structure, and potential pregnancies, unlike a hysterectomy. UFE recovery is quicker, typically a week, versus 4–6 weeks for a hysterectomy. UFE has fewer risks because it avoids major surgery and general anesthesia. Both treatments relieve fibroid symptoms.

In short:

• UFE shrinks fibroids to ease symptoms while maintaining fertility.
• A hysterectomy resolves symptoms by removing the uterus, which eliminates fertility.

Why More Women Are Choosing UFE

As awareness grows, many women are choosing UFE because it treats fibroids without surgery, avoids the risks associated with major operations, and offers a quick return to normal life. The procedure treats multiple fibroids at once, requires only a tiny incision, and preserves the uterus—all while providing lasting symptom relief.

Is UFE Right for You?

The decision between UFE and hysterectomy depends on your symptoms, medical history, goals for future fertility, and the overall approach you prefer. If you have been told that a hysterectomy is your only option, seeking a second opinion from an interventional radiologist can provide a broader understanding of your choices.

The Bottom Line

When comparing UFE vs hysterectomy, the best choice is the one that aligns with your priorities, lifestyle, and long-term goals. UFE stands out as a non-surgical fibroid treatment that delivers effective relief with fewer risks and faster recovery—giving many women an alternative to major surgery.

If you’re ready to learn about all of your options, contact Clarity Care in near Kansas City to schedule a consultation.