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

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.
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.
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.
Pain During Intercourse
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.
Do You Experience Symptoms of Fibroids?
Take Risk Assessment NowInitial Symptoms of Fibroids
- Slight discomfort in the pelvic area
- Slight discomfort in the pelvic area
- Intense or extended menstrual flow
- Experiencing spotting or bleeding between menstrual cycles
Symptoms of Advanced Fibroids
- 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.