Telemedicine follow-up improves early detection of ovarian dysfunction after uterine artery embolization: a retrospective cohort study.
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OBJECTIVE: Uterine artery embolization (UAE) for fibroids may cause ovarian dysfunction, particularly concerning for reproductive-aged women. This study evaluated whether a structured telemedicine follow-up protocol enhances timely identification of early-stage ovarian dysfunction compared to traditional outpatient care, thereby expanding the therapeutic intervention window. METHODS: This retrospective cohort study analyzed 232 women aged 18–40 who underwent UAE at Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital (December 2020–2023). Participants were assigned to WeChat telemedicine platform (n = 138) or traditional follow-up (n = 94). Primary outcome was early identification of ovarian dysfunction, defined as diminished ovarian reserve (AMH < 1.1 ng/ml, FSH 10-15 IU/L), or subclinical POI (FSH 15-25 IU/L). Secondary outcomes included hormone replacement therapy adherence and quality of life scores. RESULTS: Telemedicine significantly improved early detection of ovarian dysfunction (21% vs 3%, p < 0.001), particularly in women aged 28–36 (OR = 7.84, 95%CI: 1.05–58.44). Follow-up completion increased substantially (3.83 ± 0.60 vs 2.67 ± 1.04 visits, p < 0.001). Among patients with confirmed dysfunction, telemedicine achieved superior hormone therapy adherence (82.8% vs 27.3% good adherence, p < 0.001) and better quality of life scores at 3 months (MENQOL: 49.83 ± 10.82 vs 59.09 ± 15.30, p = 0.038). CONCLUSION: Telemedicine follow-up after UAE significantly is significantly associated with early detection of ovarian dysfunction and treatment adherence. Integration of structured remote monitoring protocols into post-UAE care pathways may improve long-term reproductive health outcomes.