Uterine Fibroids: Common Symptoms and Treatments

Uterine fibroids are benign, noncancerous tissue growth that develops in the uterine muscle tissues. According to medical statistics, around 20% to 80% of women experience uterine fibroids by the age of 50 years. However, most women have no symptoms and might never know they have fibroids. Also, fibroids can develop quickly over months or take several years to mature. Fibroids are even sometimes overlooked by health professionals who offer different diagnoses. Therefore, if you are experiencing uterine fibroids Houston, TX, it is important to consult a well-experienced doctor. Here is a look at the symptoms of uterine fibroids and available treatments.

Symptoms Of Uterine Fibroids

While most women are asymptomatic, uterine fibroids can cause various symptoms. The common symptoms include;

1. Excessive Menstrual Bleeding

One of the common signs of uterine fibroids is heavy menstrual bleeding. Patients often complain about getting embarrassing accidents during their menstrual cycle. Do you probably wonder what excessive menstrual bleeding is? This menstrual period lasts longer than seven days, having to wear tampons and pads and change them within two hours. If the fibroids are left untreated, prolonged excessive bleeding might result in other health conditions, including anemia, fatigue, and clotting.

2. Urinary Incontinence

The uterus is situated at the top of the bladder. When the uterus is enlarged due to uterine fibroids, it exerts pressure on the bladder, similar to the pressure you experience during pregnancy. This pressure can cause urinary leakage, which can be difficult to deal with. Fibroid treatment will help relieve the pressure on your bladder and treat urinary incontinence problems.

3. Pelvic Pressure and Pain

Uterine fibroids can enlarge your uterus significantly, even around the size of a five-month pregnancy. The bigger the fibroid becomes, the more pressure and pain it exerts on the uterus. The organs surrounding the uterus can also become compressed, leading to swelling and discomfort in the abdomen because of the large uterus size.

4. Bloating Or Constipation

Like the bladder, the surrounding intestines and colon can get compressed due to an enlarged uterus. When the intestines and stomach become compressed, it can cause early fullness and bloating. Constipation can also result from a compressed colon. Bloating and constipation can cause discomfort and pain.

Additional symptoms of uterine fibroids might include infertility, painful intercourse, anemia, leg pain, and abdominal swelling.

If You Have Symptoms, What Are Your Treatment Options?

Different treatment options are available based on your fibroids’ location, size, and symptoms. Your doctor might prescribe medical treatment with injections or tablets that decreases the levels of particular hormones such as estrogen. However, these medications can trigger menopausal symptoms.

Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) is another effective non-surgical treatment alternative to the traditional surgical procedure. This minimally invasive procedure involves blocking the blood supply to the fibroids, making them shrink.   Other surgical treatment options include myomectomy and hysterectomy.

Ultimately, uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths that occur in the uterus. Mostly, they don’t cause any symptoms and don’t need treatment. However, if you are experiencing severe symptoms such as heavy menstrual periods and abdominal pain, various surgical or medical treatments can help relieve pain and discomfort. You can reduce your risk of developing uterine fibroids by managing your stress and taking a healthy diet.