Fibroid Embolisation and Future Pregnancy: What to Discuss Before Deciding

If fibroid symptoms are disrupting your periods and a specialist has offered embolisation, you may want relief while still feeling unsure about having a baby later. Tell the team about that uncertainty before deciding. You can ask them to discuss future pregnancy without committing to a plan for it today.

Does embolisation remove the fibroids?

Cambridge University Hospitals describes uterine fibroid embolisation as blocking the arteries supplying fibroids so they shrink. It uses particles delivered through catheters into those arteries.¹

Ask what the proposed treatment is expected to change for your symptoms. Bring the details that matter to your day: the plans you cancel, the bleeding you want help with and the activities affected. Ask how the team would assess the response and what would happen if the improvement did not meet your needs.

Can I assume a future pregnancy will be possible?

CUH reports that some women have become pregnant after embolisation. It also says that if a future baby is very important to you, discuss this with your doctor because an operation may be a better choice.¹

Ask: “How do my pregnancy plans change the options you recommend? What do we know about the advantages and uncertainties for me?”

If you are undecided, say that directly. Ask which choices need making now and whether another appointment or specialist discussion would help before you consent. Have the clinician explain which alternatives are suitable for your own findings and why.

What should I ask about periods afterward?

CUH identifies premature menopause as a possible risk of embolisation.¹

Ask the team how that possibility applies to you and what changes in your periods should prompt contact afterward. Request an explanation of the risks you want to understand before deciding, including any concerns about future pregnancy.

You can also ask: “Who should I speak to if my priorities change before the procedure? Can we review the plan before going ahead?”

What belongs in the decision appointment?

Start with your two main goals, whether they are symptom relief, a future pregnancy or understanding the choices more fully. Ask the clinician to explain how the recommended option addresses each goal and where uncertainty remains.

Bring any earlier imaging or treatment information the service has requested. Ask whether the team already has those records and what further information it needs. If you want a companion to help remember the explanation, check the arrangements for attending together.

Before leaving, request a written account of the recommendation, the alternatives discussed and the next appointment. Follow your own unit’s instructions for preparation and medicines; ask it to clarify anything unclear before making changes.

What if I decide against embolisation?

CUH says patients have an opportunity to express their opinion and can decide against the procedure after discussion with their doctors.¹

Ask what the next care plan would be and whom to contact about your symptoms while considering other options. If you need time to think, ask how to arrange another discussion and whether there is a clinical reason a decision needs making sooner.

Period, Handled includes a Period Scorecard and a Flag It list and visit script. Use the scorecard and visit script to describe the effects of your periods and record questions about treatment and your future plans. Explore the periods playbook.