Confused between hysterectomy and UAE

Hi everyone. This is only the second time I have posted on here. I have been to my gynecologist and I have about 7 fibroids and an enlarged uterus, that of a 14-16 week pregnant woman. She told me that my options were either a hysterectomy or possibly a UAE. I have not been to the radiologist yet to discuss a UAE. I am 48 years old and I think I am menopausal now. I have not had a period since July and my test showed me menopausal. My question is if I am menopausal would a UAE work or would it be better to go ahead and have a hysterectomy done? I would greatly appreciate any comments on this. The other thing that I don't like is that my stomach looks like I am pregnant and that really bothers me. Thanks to all of you for listening.

I would write a list of pros and cons to both that helps more than people think. talk to your dr but i did a lot of reading on a urerine artery emboilzation( sorry not a good speller) .. and never read anything saying age or menapuase would effect it. I hope some one can help. big hugs
hugs
Lisa

Hi Izzey1,

I agree with Lisaanne2. I have never read either that age or being menopausel was a problem with a UFE (Uterine Fibroid Embolization). I think the size of your uterus with fibroids will be the major consideration in whether or not you are a good candidate for the procedure. In my case, I was 46 and I discussed a UFE with two Drs and both felt that due to the size of my fibroids, I was not a good candiate for a UFE. At the time, that news was a *big* disappointment...and I am still glad I discussed it with my Drs. I think pursung a UFE is a good idea. Gathering all the information you can.

You might also check to see if you are a candidate for a less invasive hyst such as a TVH, LAVH, LSH, or TLH. In the end... I opted to do (3) months of lupron shots to shrink my fibroids enough for a less invasive hyst. To this day, I am glad I had my LSH for my fibroids.

In the end...do what is *best* for you. That is what is most important.

Sending best wishes~

Mary

P.S. I had the ~poofy~ stomach too.