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Published on: July 16, 2020
Uterine artery embolization and its effect on fertility
Prasoon P Mohan1, Michael H Hamblin, Robert L Vogelzang
1Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, St. Francis Hospital, Evanston, Illinois 60202, USA. prasoonpm@gmail.com
Summary
Pregnancy rates after uterine artery embolization (UAE) appear comparable to general population rates. However, some studies indicate a potential for increased miscarriage risk following UAE, warranting further research.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Medicine
- Interventional Radiology
Background:
- Uterine artery embolization (UAE) is a common treatment for symptomatic uterine fibroids.
- Assessing fertility outcomes and pregnancy complications after UAE is crucial for patient counseling.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review existing literature on pregnancy and its complications following UAE.
- To evaluate the impact of UAE on fertility and pregnancy outcomes.
Main Methods:
- A systematic review of 21 studies was conducted.
- Studies included data on pregnancies and pregnancy complications after UAE.
- Evidence quality was assessed.
Main Results:
- Low-level evidence suggests pregnancy rates post-UAE are comparable to age-adjusted general population rates.
- Pregnancy complication rates appear similar to those in women with untreated fibroids.
- A few studies reported a higher incidence of miscarriage after UAE.
Conclusions:
- Current evidence suggests UAE may not significantly impair overall pregnancy rates.
- Further high-quality randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm these findings and compare UAE with other fertility-sparing treatments.
- The potential for increased miscarriage risk requires further investigation.
