Uterine artery embolization treatment of uterine fibroids: Effect on ovarian function in younger women

PURPOSE: To evaluate how uterine artery embolization (UAE) treatment for uterine fibroids (UF) affects ovarian function in young Middle Eastern women. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this prospective study, 32 patients (mean age, 34 y; range, 26 - 45 y) underwent UAE treatment of symptomatic fibroids. Serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels were measured before and after the embolization treatment. Preprocedural levels were determined on the second day of the menstrual cycle. Postprocedural levels were measured 3 months and 6 months after embolization. A detailed history of menstrual cycles was obtained before and after UAE. RESULTS: Thirty premenopausal patients had normal menses before UAE. Mean FSH levels before and 3 months after UAE were 6.83 IU/L +/- 1.8 and 6.99 IU/L +/- 1.67, respectively (P =.66). Normal menstruation resumed 2-3 months after the procedure. In two perimenopausal women, who had irregular menses and decreased ovarian reserve, mean FSH levels increased transiently from 22 and 30 IU/L to 40 and 48 IU/L, respectively, 3 months after UAE; they developed transient amenorrhea. CONCLUSION: In this study, UAE had no clinically relevant adverse effects on normally functioning ovaries and could be used safely in the treatment of symptomatic fibroids in premenopausal women. Larger studies are required for further support of this observation.