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Enlarged Uterus

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Enlarged Uterus: An Indication of Uterine Fibroids

A uterus is generally about the size of a clenched fist. However, it can enlarge due to several factors, such as pregnancy or uterine fibroids. Fibroids are benign tumors that can develop within or on the walls of the uterus. Women are most likely to develop fibroids during their childbearing years.

While an enlarged uterus is not always a major issue, it can impact your comfort in sitting, moving, and sleeping. If you are experiencing symptoms related to an enlarged uterus, it is crucial to consult a fibroid specialist promptly.

Arrange a consultation with one of our doctors one of our Fibroid Clinics to receive the appropriate treatment for your condition.

Symptoms of an Enlarged Uterus

Women frequently find out they have an enlarged or swollen uterus during a routine pelvic exam with their gyneocologist. The primary symptom of an enlarged uterus due to fibroids is bleeding, which can include heavy or extended menstrual periods and bleeding between periods. Additional symptoms of an enlarged uterus may include:

  • Unaccounted-for weight increase
  • Abdominal bloating and constipation
  • Irregularities in the menstrual cycle
  • A sensation of bloating or heaviness in the lower abdomen
  • Frequent urination
  • Discomfort or cramping in the legs, pelvic area, or lower back
  • A shift in how their clothes fit

Causes of an Enlarged Uterus

Large or numerous fibroids frequently lead to an enlarged uterus in women who are not pregnant. It is estimated that 70-80% of women will develop fibroids by the time they reach 50. However, fibroids are not the sole cause of an enlarged uterus. Other potential reasons include:
  • Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)
  • Ovarian cysts
  • Pregnancy
  • Menopause
  • Endometrial cancer
  • Adenomyosis

Do You Experience Symptoms of Fibroids?

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How Do Fibroids Lead to an Enlarged Uterus?

Some women with fibroids have no symptoms whatsoever, while others might deal with persistent pain or discomfort. If untreated, certain fibroids can grow rapidly and become quite large. When fibroids expand within the uterine cavity, they can cause the uterus to enlarge similarly to what happens during pregnancy. Conversely, if they grow outside the uterine wall, they might press on nearby organs like the bladder and rectum, leading to frequent urination and rectal pressure.

Treatment For An Enlarged Uterus

Most cases of an enlarged uterus do not need medical treatment. However, when intervention is necessary, the treatment plan often centers on alleviating symptoms, which can differ from person to person. Lifestyle adjustments and non-surgical methods, such as Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE), may help manage symptoms like pain and bleeding. It is important to discuss all possible treatment options with your doctor to make an informed choice about your health.

Lifestyle Changes

Depending on the size of your fibroids, managing symptoms might only require over-the-counter or prescription pain medication. Your doctor might also prescribe birth control or a different hormone therapy known as gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). GnRH is typically used for up to six months to help reduce the size of the fibroids and alleviate symptoms like heavy bleeding, pelvic pressure, and discomfort during menstruation.

Minimally Invasive Treatment

Our physicians provide Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE), a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure to effectively treat fibroids. UFE is performed on an outpatient basis with a small incision in the wrist or groin. Unlike conventional surgery, UFE preserves the uterus, allowing patients to go home the same day. This method results in minimal scarring, lowers the risk of complications, and leads to shorter recovery times.

What to Anticipate from Uterine Fibroid Embolization

  • Maintaining the integrity of the uterus
  • Reduced likelihood of complications
  • No hospital admission required
  • Less invasive compared to major surgery
  • Decreases excessive bleeding
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