Interventional radiology patient experience: How uterine fibroid emobolisation changed a young woman’s life 

‘If this is how other women live, I have not been living!’

Stephanie got used to managing difficult periods, so much so that it became the norm. “I was used to heavy bleeding and a lot of cramping during my periods,” said Stephanie. “I was diagnosed with endometriosis when I was 20 and eventually had surgery for the condition 10 years later.”

It was during the surgery that the gynecologist identified several uterine fibroids that were about 5cms big. Over the course of the next two years, they grew to about 12cms. 

“As the fibroids got bigger my symptoms intensified. Bleeding during my periods got even heavier and I could hardly stay awake during my cycle. I was completely exhausted.”

The symptoms quickly altered the way Stephanie was able to live her life. “I was in constant pain. My stomach was so bloated that I looked like I was 6 months pregnant and even sitting down or tying up my shoes was excruciating. I could only wear loose-fitting clothing as I couldn’t stand any pressure on my stomach and I wanted to hide how swollen it was.

“It eventually got to the stage where I needed to go to the toilet every 30 minutes. I had to plan my whole day around where and when I could get to a bathroom – which isn’t easy when you have an hour commute just to get to work!

“I was a mess, feeling exhausted, in pain and hopeless so much of the time. I never felt rested, never felt energetic and most days took a huge amount of effort to get through.”

Stephanie’s gynecologist made her aware of treatment options ranging from hormonal medications to major surgery. “I considered getting a hysterectomy for about six months, but as a young woman, I couldn’t believe that was my only option.”

Stephanie sought out more specialists for a second opinion and during her research found an old YouTube video on uterine fibroid embolisation (UFE).

She said,” I found an interventional radiology clinic in Sydney who offered the procedure and I made an appointment as soon as I could. The doctor took me through the procedure and I knew this was the right option for me. To be honest, it seemed too good to be true, given the improvements that could be gained and avoiding a surgery under general anesthetic.”

After the procedure, Stephanie’s symptoms improved dramatically. “The bleeding during my first few periods was basically non-existent compared to how they had been before. I remember thinking, ‘If this is how other women live, I have not been living!’” 

“The relief and improvement in all my other symptoms were drastic – it was beyond worth it. I wanted to share my story so that other women who are suffering like I was can learn more about UFE and consider if it is the right treatment option for them. It gave me back my life and I am extremely grateful to my medical team for that. I couldn’t recommend the team and the procedure enough, I haven’t looked back since.”

First published in Inside News September 2020