Uterine fibroids are benign growths of the uterus, often appearing during the childbearing years. Also known as myomas, fibromyomas and leiomyomas, uterine fibroids are not associated with an elevation of uterine cancer rates, and they almost never progress to cancer, says Mayo Clinic. Uterine fibroid symptoms include heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, leg pain and backache. Sometimes fibroids are asymptomatic, but when they cause significant symptoms, they warrant medical evaluation and treatment.
Step 1
Visit your physician. Your doctor will need to evaluate your uterine fibroids before he can recommend an effective treatment plan. You will be given a comprehensive physical examination including a pelvic examination. In addition, your doctor might recommend diagnostic imaging tests such as an ultrasound to determine the size and location of your fibroids. After your doctor evaluates you, he will recommend an appropriate treatment regime to get rid of your pain.
Step 2
Take an over-the-counter medication. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen and aspirin can relieve fibroid pain. Acetaminophen preparations, such as Tylenol, are also effective in reducing pain, however they do not relieve inflammation, which can be a contributing factor in uterine fibroid pain. If you are taking other medications or if you have medical conditions, check with your doctor before taking one of these medications.
Step 3
Ask about a progestin-releasing intrauterine device. Also known as an IUD, this device releases the hormone progestin into the uterus, reducing heavy bleeding and relieving pain. If your uterine fibroids distort your inner uterus, an IUD is not an appropriate treatment option for you.
Step 4
Inquire about prescription pain relievers. Ask your doctor about taking prescription analgesics to relieve your uterine fibroid pain. These medications include codeine based analgesics, which are effective for treating pain, but can cause significant side effects. These side effects include excessive drowsiness, confusion, dizziness, poor concentration and stomach upset. Never drive a car while under the influence of these medications, and only take them under the supervision of your health care provider.
Step 5
Consider a myomectomy. This treatment option is a surgical procedure that removes fibroids, but leaves the uterus in place, explains Dr. Andrew Weil. Discuss this surgical procedure with your doctor to make sure you are an appropriate candidate.
Step 6
Consider hysterectomy. If all other conservative treatment options fail to alleviate your fibroid pain, ask your doctor about a hysterectomy. This surgical procedure removes the uterus and it's fibroids, eliminating bleeding and pain. Although hysterectomy will resolve your condition, it causes infertility, so discuss this option thoroughly with your doctor.
Tips and Warnings
- Apply a heating pad to your lower abdomen. Heat stimulates blood flow and can ease the pain of uterine fibroids and help you relax. Always set your heating pad to the lowest setting, and never apply it directly to your bare skin.
- If you experience severe or prolonged bleeding, intractable pain or weakness, seek prompt medical attention. You will need quick evaluation to rule out anemia or a serious gynecological condition.
Things You'll Need
- Physical examination
- Over-the-counter pain medications
- Progestin-releasing intrauterine device
- Prescription analgesics
- Surgical consultation
