As a woman, you might have heard of uterine fibroids, which are non-cancerous growths that develop in the uterus. They can cause a range of symptoms that vary from woman to woman. Some women might not even realize they have fibroids, while others might experience severe symptoms that impact their daily life. In this article, we’ll talk about the symptoms of uterine fibroids in a way that’s relatable and easy to understand.
Do you experience abnormal bleeding?
One of the most common symptoms of uterine fibroids is abnormal bleeding. If you have fibroids, you might experience heavy periods, periods that last longer than usual, or bleeding between periods. Your periods might also be painful, with severe cramping and discomfort. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to speak with an interventional radiologist Jerusalem healthcare provider to find out what’s causing them and how to treat them.
Are you feeling pelvic pain and pressure?
Women with uterine fibroids might also experience pelvic pain and pressure. You might feel pain in your lower abdomen or back, and the discomfort might get worse with physical activity or when you’re sitting for a long time.
Are you having urinary or bowel issues?
Fibroids can also cause urinary and bowel issues. You might find yourself urinating frequently, having difficulty emptying your bladder, or experiencing urinary incontinence. In some cases, fibroids can press against the rectum, causing constipation or difficulty passing stool.
Are you struggling with infertility or pregnancy complications?
Although it’s rare, uterine fibroids can cause infertility or pregnancy complications. Large fibroids can interfere with the fertilized egg’s ability to implant in the uterus or cause difficulty carrying a pregnancy to term. If you have fibroids and become pregnant, you might be at an increased risk of miscarriage, premature birth, or other complications.
Are you experiencing discomfort during sex?
Another symptom of uterine fibroids is pain or discomfort during sex. Fibroids can cause your uterus to press against other organs, leading to discomfort during intercourse. If you’re experiencing pain during sex, it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider to rule out any underlying conditions and determine the best course of treatment.
Do you have a swollen or enlarged abdomen?
In some cases, uterine fibroids can cause your abdomen to swell or become enlarged. This is more common if you have large fibroids or if you have multiple fibroids. You might notice that your clothes are fitting differently or that you look pregnant even if you’re not.
What should you do if you think you have uterine fibroids?
If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms we mentioned above, it’s important to speak to an interventional radiologist Jerusalem healthcare provider. They might recommend a physical exam, ultrasound, or other imaging tests to determine if you have uterine fibroids. Treatment options for fibroids depend on various factors, such as the severity of symptoms, the size and location of the fibroids, and other considerations. You might not require treatment at all, or you might need medication, non-invasive procedures, or surgery.