Fibroid tumors in the uterus, or uterine fibroids, are small, noncancerous growths that develop within the uterine wall. African-American women or women with a family history of uterine fibroids are at an increased risk of developing these growths, warns MayoClinic.com. Women who develop symptoms of fibroid tumors in the uterus should seek further evaluation and care from a medical professional.
No Symptoms
Approximately 75 percent of women with fibroid tumors in the uterus do not develop noticeable symptoms, explains the University of Maryland Medical Center. This lack of symptoms can make it difficult for a doctor to diagnose uterine fibroids in affected women.
Irregular Vaginal Bleeding
Uterine fibroids can cause symptoms of irregular vaginal bleeding in affected women. Vaginal bleeding in between periods is not normal and can be a symptom of alternate medical problems, such as a vaginal infection or sexually transmitted disease. Women who experience intermittent vaginal bleeding or spotting between menstrual cycles should consult a physician as soon as possible.
Menstrual Cycle Changes
Unusually heavy or lengthy menstrual periods can be a symptom of fibroid tumors in the uterus, explains the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Women with uterine fibroids may also experience severe abdominal cramping or pain during their menstrual cycles. Heavy vaginal bleeding due to uterine fibroids can increase a women's risk of developing anemia, a condition characterized by unusually low levels of red blood cells. Anemia can cause symptoms of fatigue, pale skin, headache, dizziness or heart rate changes. Women who notice any unusual changes in their menstrual cycle should speak with a doctor for further guidance.
Increased Urination
The uterus is a small female reproductive organ located near the bladder within the lower abdomen. Fibroid tumors that develop within the uterus can cause this organ to swell and expand. If this occurs, the uterus can press into surrounding organs, such as the bladder. As a result, women with fibroid tumors in the uterus can experience frequent urination as a symptom of this condition, according to MayoClinic.com. Certain women with uterine fibroids may also have trouble fully emptying the bladder during urination. These symptoms of fibroid tumors in the uterus can also be signs of other medical problems, such as a urinary tract infection. Women who develop these uterine fibroid symptoms should be evaluated by a doctor.
Abdominal Fullness or Bloating
Fibroid tumor growth in the uterus can cause sensations of fullness or bloating within the lower abdomen. Women who experience these symptoms may feel gassy or have difficulty producing a bowel movement, explains MedlinePlus, a website of the National Institutes of Health.
Pain During Intercourse
Women with uterine fibroids can experience sensations of pain during sexual intercourse, a symptom called dyspareunia, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Discomfort during sex is not normal and affected women should discuss these symptoms of fibroid tumors in the uterus with a physician as soon as possible.
