Uterine fibroids can cause a variety of symptoms. They originate in the tissue of the uterus and can be small and undetectable, causing no problems, or they can grow to the size of a large bulky mass. Larger uterine fibroids increase the size of the uterus and are responsible for symptoms of uterine fibroids. Substances in the body, genes and hormones are thought to contribute to the growth and development of abnormal tissue that promotes fibroids.
Heavy or Irregular Menses
A symptom of uterine fibroids is heavy menstrual periods. Another name for heavy bleeding during menstruation is menorrhagia. It is important to see a doctor if menstruation lasts more than seven days, large clots are present or signs of anemia are present that include fatigue, pallor and shortness of breath. Bleeding after menopause is always abnormal. For women who are pre-menopausal, soaking a pad or tampon every hour is an indication to see a physician. There are multiple causes for heavy bleeding during menstruation, one of which may be uterine fibroids. Bleeding can also occur between menstrual periods.
Pain During Sex
Pain during sex is a symptom of uterine fibroid. Before menopause, estrogen levels increase. Worsening pain during sex may mean a uterine fibroid that previously caused no symptoms is becoming larger. Uterine fibroids grow when estrogen levels increase. After menopause, when estrogen levels decline, fibroids shrink unless hormone replacement with estrogen and progesterone is used.
Bladder Pressure
Uterine fibroids can put pressure on the bladder. Symptoms include frequent urination and a sensation of rectal pressure or pain. A constant feeling of fullness in the pelvic area may be present. It may be hard to control urination, and bladder leakage could occur.
Pain
Uterine fibroids can cause symptoms of low back pain, pain in the legs and abdominal pain and cramping. The pain may be sharp, dull or aching. Menstrual cramping may be severe.
Enlarged Abdomen
Swelling or enlarged abdomen, especially unexplained, can be a symptom of a single or multiple large uterine fibroids. It may be easy to mistake an enlarged abdomen for weight gain, but in the presence of other symptoms, uterine fibroids should be suspected. It is important to understand that uterine fibroids can vary in size and fluctuate hormonally. Swelling of the abdomen accompanies very large uterine fibroids.
Uterine Fibroids Can Cause Complications
Symptoms of uterine fibroids could also include miscarriage and infertility. Most uterine fibroids do not cause problems unless they are very large or are attached to the uterus by a stem. Often uterine fibroids are felt during a pelvic exam and are palpable and may have caused no symptoms at all. Other causes of infertility are more common than are uterine fibroids. Following treatment many women are able to become pregnant.
