Abnormal or unusual non-cancerous (benign) tumors or growths that develop within the uterus are called uterine fibroids. Approximately 75 percent of women develop fibroids on the uterine wall at some point during their lives, report doctors at The Mayo Clinic. Women who experience symptoms indicative of fibroids on the uterus should contact a doctor for further evaluation and care.
Asymptomatic
The majority of women who develop uterine fibroids do not experience any noticeable symptoms. Though growths within the uterus are abnormal, the presence of these fibroids does not increase a woman's risk of developing uterine cancer, explains the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Large uterine fibroids or fibroids that develop in pregnant women are more likely to cause symptoms.
Heavy or Painful Menstrual Periods
A woman who develops fibroids within her uterus can experience unusually heavy or painful menstrual periods as a symptom of this condition, warns Medline Plus, a health information website established by the National Institutes of Health. Severe pelvic cramping can be uncomfortable and may occur in conjunction with a longer menstrual period. Certain women with uterine fibroids also experience irregular vaginal bleeding or spotting between menstrual cycles. These uterine fibroid symptoms can also be signs of other medical problems and should be discussed with a doctor if they occur.
Pelvic Swelling or Fullness
Fibroids within the uterus can lead to significant irritation and inflammation. As a result, certain women may experience fullness or swelling of the pelvis. These symptoms of uterine fibroids may also occur in conjunction with gas or constipation, which may exacerbate pelvic discomfort.
Pain
Women can experience painful sensations within the lower back as a symptom of uterine fibroids, report Mayo Clinic doctors. These painful symptoms may also radiate into the legs, which can affect a woman's ability to move about normally. Certain women also experience pain or discomfort during sexual activity. These symptoms of uterine fibroids should be discussed with a medical provider.
Increased Urination
Fibroids within the uterus can place pressure on the bladder, leading to increased urination in certain women. Certain women may also experience difficulty fully emptying the bladder. Frequent urination can be indicative of a urinary or sexually-transmitted infection and should be discussed with a doctor immediately.
Infertilty
Rarely, uterine fibroids can lead to reproductive complications such as infertility--a condition in which a woman is unable to become pregnant, explains the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Women who have large or numerous fibroids within the uterus may be at an increased risk of developing infertility.
