Fibroids are benign, noncancerous tumors that grow inside or outside of the uterus. They are made of connective tissue and muscle from the uterine wall. Fibroid symptoms usually include heavy and prolonged menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, pressure, and frequent urination. Symptoms may vary from person to person, although some women will display no symptoms at all.
Abnormal menstrual bleeding, such as extremely heavy and prolonged cycles, is one of the most common fibroid symptoms. Heavy menstrual bleeding not only can be an inconvenience, but it possibly could lead to other problems such as anemia. Spotting or bleeding between menses may be an additional form of abnormal menstruation.
Other common symptoms may include pelvic pain and pressure. Fibroids may be the cause of extremely painful menstruation. Some women may experience painful intercourse as well. Additionally, leg and lower-back pain could be caused by a fibroid tumor straining the nerves that extend into these regions.
The size of fibroids can vary. Also known as uterine fibroids, they may be as small as a pea or as large as a melon. As they increase in size, the sensation of pelvic pressure could intensify. This may result from the weight of a fibroid tumor pressing on surrounding organs in the pelvic region.
The bladder is a surrounding organ that could be affected by fibroid pressure. Its capacity to hold urine may be reduced if compressed. This may lead to another of the most common fibroid symptoms: frequent urination. Other bladder problems may include the inability to control urine or the inability to urinate at all. Some may also feel the urge to urinate and be unable to, despite the sensation of bladder fullness.
Constipation is another symptom of fibroids. This usually is caused by pressure on the bowels. Fibroids may also press against the rectum, leading to the feeling of rectal fullness. Bowel movements also can become difficult and painful.
Some women may notice an expansion of abdominal girth. As a fibroid enlarges, the uterus may enlarge as well. The appearance of a distended or bloated abdomen may be the result. This symptom can be related to constipation or to the size of growing fibroids.
Pregnancy complications and infertility may be other fibroid symptoms. These complications can include difficulties in getting pregnant, problems during pregnancy, and miscarriage. It may be difficult to get pregnant if the uterine wall is being occupied by fibroids, preventing fertilized egg implantation. Another problem may occur if the passageway of the fallopian tubes becomes partially or completely blocked by fibroids.
Problems during pregnancy may include preterm labor. This may be especially problematic if the fibroid continues to grow as the baby does. Continuous miscarriages may additionally be the symptom of a fibroid. If a fertilized egg is implanted in the uterine wall near a growing fibroid, this may impact the ability to carry a pregnancy to term.
A doctor should be able to adequately diagnose fibroid symptoms and decide whether a patient has fibroids. This is important because other gynecological issues may have similar symptoms. Fibroid treatment may be necessary if they are affecting the patient's quality of life and daily activities. Treatment is not always necessary and generally is decided on an individual basis. If a person suspects that they have fibroids, it generally is recommended that they see a gynecologist for further evaluation.
