Diference between UFE and Natural Degeneration

I'm hoping someone can help me understand this. The Dr's seem concerned that my 10 cm fibroid is not getting enough blood now and is starting to degenerate (ended up in ER with pain a while back). Hysterectomy was mentioned. From what I've read, UFE is where they block the fibroid's blood supply and it dies and that is supposedly a good thing. I'm confused because I would think that the fact that my fibroid isn't getting enough blood and is starting to die naturally would be a good thing also. I'm wondering what the difference is between having a UFE and having the fibroid naturally start to die. I'm seeing the Gynecologist in two weeks and plan on posing this question to him but if anyone has any info or experience with this, it would be great. I'm very anxious about having to have a hysterectomy because it would most likely have to be an abdominal and I'm trying to check out all my options before I see the gynecologist. Any help greatly appreciated. Knowledge is power!

I had UFE in December. I'd think the difference between it happening with the embospheres vs. naturally is that naturally the pain and tissue death is much slower. I stayed in the hospital over night and used my pain pump anytime I felt something. I felt there was no point in letting the pain get a lead, so I kept it down. I took my vicodin for 2 days (max) when I got home, then went to ibuprofen. I needed 1 vicodin during my first period after the UFE, but that is all. I knew by then that the fibroid was shrinking because I could feel things shifting around and I had lessening in various symptoms. (edited to add the info in parenthesis - The pain was pretty much over within a few days. I'd think naturally dying tissue might hurt longer. )

My fibroid was 9.3cm.

For what its worth I am now having a hysterectomy because since the UFE my doctors have discovered that I have cervical cancer. My surgery date is June 18th.

Good luck with your decision, Journeyfern!

Thank you so much for sharing your story. I'm so sorry to hear that you have cancer. I wish you all the best with your recovery.

Thank you, Journeyfern! I am thankful the cancer was found so early (and actually a bit by chance or a LOT by divine intervention). I anticipate that the hysterectomy will be the only treatment I need.