Uterine Fibroids Symptoms

What are the signs and symptoms of uterine fibroids?

Most women with uterine fibroids don’t have symptoms or need medical treatment. However, if symptoms do occur, they can greatly impact your quality of life and long-term health. The severity of these symptoms is influenced by the fibroids’ location, size, and number. If you suspect you have fibroids, it’s crucial to book a consultation with our doctors at various Fibroid Clinics for a precise diagnosis. Upon confirmation, our team will create a customized treatment plan tailored to your individual needs.

Typical Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids

Fibroids often appear in women during their 20s and 30s, typically becoming symptomatic in their late 30s or early 40s, and can persist into their 50s. The symptoms caused by fibroids can be debilitating, including excessive bleeding that may lead to anemia. Women with anemia often feel extremely tired but still have to manage work and household responsibilities. To combat fatigue, they might consume large amounts of caffeine and sugary foods or drinks, which can result in unwanted weight gain. This weight gain can lead to higher estrogen levels, causing the fibroids to grow even larger. Additionally, large fibroids can exert pressure on surrounding pelvic organs, causing frequent urination, constipation, pelvic and back pain, and pain during sexual intercourse. In many cases, women with fibroids may notice a bulge in their lower abdomen and pelvis, similar to the sensation of a growing uterus during pregnancy.

Abnormal Bleeding

Fibroids attract blood vessels and draw blood from circulation much like a sponge soaking up water. During menstruation, this blood is released from these large reservoirs, leading to excessive bleeding that can last over 7 days and require frequent changes of pads and tampons. This heavy bleeding can be difficult to manage, causing women to avoid public outings due to the fear of visible bleeding. Fibroids near the uterine cavity are particularly problematic in causing heavy bleeding. Additionally, if the uterus fails to contract properly, it cannot effectively stop the bleeding.

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Anemia

Some women suffer from heavy bleeding caused by uterine fibroids, which can lead to anemia due to a deficiency of healthy red blood cells in the body. Certain types of fibroids are more likely to cause excessive bleeding than others. Fortunately, both fibroids and anemia can be treated to enhance your quality of life.

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Lower Abdominal Pain or Pressure

Many women often mistake fibroid pain for regular menstrual cramps. This pain is usually found in women with large uterine fibroids. Some experience persistent abdominal pain from their fibroids, which can make movement and everyday activities challenging. Additionally, you might feel a heavy or pressured sensation in your lower abdomen, which is more uncomfortable than painful. The large fibroids can press on surrounding organs, leading to back pain, frequent urination, pain during sex, and constipation.

Frequent Urination

A prevalent bladder symptom caused by uterine fibroids is frequent urination. As fibroids enlarge, they can expand the uterus, putting pressure on the bladder and reducing its capacity. This can lead to a stressful and uncomfortable sensation, making you constantly search for a nearby restroom, wake up repeatedly during the night, or alter your plans and schedule to accommodate your physical needs.

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Pain During Intercourse

Uterine fibroids can cause discomfort or pain during sex. This pain might be felt only in certain positions or at specific times in the menstrual cycle. Besides affecting your physical health, this pain can also harm your emotional relationships. If your doctor doesn’t bring up this symptom, make sure to mention it during your consultation.

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Severe Menstrual Cramps

Aside from causing heavy and irregular bleeding, fibroids can also lead to other symptoms such as painful cramping in the abdomen and back. During menstruation, the uterus contracts to expel blood and the uterine lining. Prostaglandins, hormone-like substances, trigger pain and inflammation during these contractions. Higher levels of prostaglandins, often associated with fibroids, can cause more intense and prolonged cramping. Additionally, “retrograde” menstruation, where menstrual blood flows backward into the peritoneal cavity, can occur, contributing to severe cramps and pain, as the blood is highly irritating to this area.

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Do You Experience Symptoms of Fibroids?

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Initial Symptoms of Fibroids

Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that frequently show no symptoms in the beginning. Many women may not realize they have fibroids because the early signs are subtle and can be mistaken for other conditions. Typical uterine conditions. Initial signs might include:

Symptoms of Advanced Fibroids

Fibroids can cause a range of symptoms depending on their size, number, and location. Larger fibroids may result in pelvic discomfort, frequent urination, and pain during intercourse, among other issues. Fibroids that grow quickly or begin to break down can also be painful. Advanced symptoms of fibroids may include:

Intense pain in the pelvic area, abdomen, and/or back
Discomfort during sexual activity
Regular need to urinate and/or difficulty with bowel movements
Heavy and extended menstrual bleeding
Anemia and its related symptoms, which may include tiredness, dizziness, difficulty breathing, cold extremities, chest pain, irregular heartbeats, and pale skin.

Fibroid FAQ

Can fibroids develop into cancer?

Uterine fibroids are generally non-cancerous, with cancerous ones being extremely rare, occurring in fewer than one in 1,000 cases. The rare cancerous fibroid is called uterine leiomyosarcoma (ULMS). Most women with fibroids do not show symptoms, and only a small fraction will need medical intervention. Having uterine fibroids does not raise your risk of developing a cancerous fibroid or other uterine cancers.

In what ways can fibroids impact pregnancy?

Small to medium-sized fibroids that don’t cause symptoms typically won’t impact your ability to conceive or have a healthy pregnancy. However, fibroids can enlarge during pregnancy due to higher hormone levels and increased blood flow to the uterus. If they do grow, it’s usually within the first trimester. Generally, surgery is not required or done during this period. If you have fibroids and become pregnant, consult your doctor.

Can fibroids reappear after undergoing Uterine Fibroid Embolization?

UFE is a minimally invasive, image-guided treatment designed to obstruct blood flow to the fibroids in your uterus, leading to their gradual shrinkage. The effectiveness of UFE can differ based on factors like the fibroids’ location and number, as well as your general health. If the fibroids do recur, they typically grow at a slow rate. Nevertheless, research indicates that most women find their fibroids do not return after this procedure.