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If you’re wondering “What is Fibroid Sloughing?”, you’re not alone. Fibroid sloughing is the medical term used to describe the expulsion of fibroid tissuefrom the uterus through the vagina. This typically occurs after the fibroid has lost its blood supply—either naturally or as a result of treatments like Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE). Once deprived of oxygen and nutrients, the fibroid tissue begins to break down and die in a process called degeneration. As the dead tissue separates from the uterine wall, the body may expel it, much like it does with menstrual lining.
This can result in noticeable discharge, often gray or brown in color, with a fleshy or rubbery texture. While the idea of fibroid tissue coming out might sound alarming, it’s usually a normal and expected part of the recovery process after embolization procedures. In fact, fibroid sloughing can be a sign that the treatment is working effectively.
Common symptoms include mild to moderate cramping, spotting, or an unusual vaginal discharge. However, in some cases, women may experience more intense discomfort, a foul odor, or fever—indicators that medical follow-up may be needed. Though not every woman will experience sloughing, being informed about it can ease anxiety and help you recognize what’s normal and what requires professional attention.
Why Does Fibroid Sloughing Happen?
Sloughing occurs when fibroid tissue loses its blood supply and can no longer survive inside the uterus. The most common triggers include:
- Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE): A minimally invasive treatment that encourages fibroid shrinkage and tissue death.
- Natural degeneration: Sometimes fibroids outgrow their blood supply, especially during menopause.
- Postpartum changes: Hormonal shifts after childbirth can also trigger fibroid degeneration.
Not all fibroids will slough. The process is most common with submucosal fibroids, which are located just beneath the uterine lining and closest to the vaginal canal.
Is Fibroid Sloughing Normal or Concerning?
For most women, fibroid sloughing is a completely normal response to fibroid death and does not require emergency care. In fact, it often indicates that treatment is working as intended.
That said, there are times when sloughing can lead to complications. You should contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience:
- High fever or chills
- Heavy, prolonged bleeding
- Foul-smelling discharge
- Severe pelvic pain
- Signs of infection (e.g., dizziness, fatigue, nausea)
Prompt care helps prevent infection or retained fibroid fragments, which may need surgical removal.
Fibroid Sloughing vs Fibroid Degeneration
Though they’re related, fibroid sloughing and degeneration are not the same:
Degeneration can lead to sloughing, but not all degeneration results in tissue expulsion.
How Long Does Fibroid Sloughing Last?
The sloughing process can last anywhere from a few hours to several days. Some women pass all the tissue at once, while others experience intermittent expulsion over a week or two.
If you’ve had UFE, sloughing typically begins 2 to 6 weeks post-procedure, though the timeline can vary based on fibroid size, location, and your body’s healing speed.
How to Manage Fibroid Sloughing at Home
If you’re going through fibroid sloughing, here are a few self-care tips to support a smoother recovery:
- Use pads instead of tampons to reduce infection risk
- Take pain medication as prescribed by your doctor
- Monitor for odor, discharge volume, and color
- Stay hydrated and rest to help your body recover
- Avoid douching or vaginal insertsduring this time
It’s also helpful to keep a journal of symptoms, including any tissue passed, so you can share accurate information with your healthcare provider.
Emotional Impact of Fibroid Sloughing
It’s not just a physical process—fibroid sloughing can be emotionally unsettling, especially if you weren’t expecting it. The sight of expelled tissue, paired with cramping and discomfort, can be distressing for many.
That’s why education and support are so important. Talking to a provider, joining a fibroid support group, or reading about other women’s experiences can help you feel more in control and less alone.
The Good News: Healing is Ahead
While fibroid sloughing can be uncomfortable, many women report significant relief afterward. Once the fibroid tissue has passed, it’s common to experience:
- Lighter periods
- Reduced pelvic pain
- Less bloating or pressure
- Improved energy and mood
In other words, this messy and misunderstood part of fibroid treatment can be the turning point toward better reproductive health.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Panic—Be Prepared
Fibroid sloughing may not be widely talked about, but it’s real, it’s normal, and for many, it’s part of the path to recovery. By understanding what it is and knowing what to expect, you empower yourself to handle it with confidence and clarity.
If you’re facing fibroid symptoms, considering UFE, or simply want to be more informed, remember this: your body is strong, healing is possible, and you don’t have to go through it alone.