Ovarian reserve following uterine artery embolization in women of reproductive age: A preliminary report

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the effect of uterine artery embolization (UAE) for leiomyomata on reproductive potential for women in their reproductive age group. Material and methods: This non-randomized, cross-sectional, observational study of ovarian reserve in women under 40 years of age who underwent UAE was conducted at a private practice located in Los Angeles, California. Twenty four women under 40 years of age who underwent UAE at least four months prior to study interventions were recruited. The study involved a one-time serum blood test on day three of the menstrual cycle and measured early follicular phrase follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and estradiol (E2) levels. Results: Descriptive analysis showed means of all outcome measures were within normal range of values [FSH = 6.67IU/L (SD = 2.3), AMH = 1.24 ng/ml (SD = 0.9), E2 = 58.8 pg/ml (SD = 18.0)]. Conclusion: Hormonal findings from this study were within normal ranges, suggesting that ovarian function is not adversely affected by UAE. Women with fibroids within reproductive age may consider UAE as a treatment option.

Key words::

• Minimally invasive surgery
• uterine artery embolization
• catheter interventions

Acknowledgements

We acknowledge William D. Voorhees III, Ph.D. for statistical analysis of this study. David B. Seifer M.D. assisted with data comparison and comments. Desta Gelagay, Calvin Dunn, and Stephanie Elliott contributed to research.

Declaration of interest: The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.