As an OB-GYN, one thing I want every woman to know is this: You never have to brush off pain, heavy bleeding or discomfort as normal. Your symptoms matter, and so do you.
Many women come in with the same quiet question: “Could my symptoms be fibroids?” They describe heavy bleeding, pelvic pressure, bloating or pain that interrupts work, sleep or everyday life. Some tell me they assumed these symptoms were simply part of being a woman.
They are not. Fibroids are common, but the symptoms they cause are not something you have to accept or push through.
If you have been wondering why your body feels different or whether fibroids might be the cause, here is what I want you to know.
What Are Fibroids?
Uterine fibroids are benign growths that develop from the uterine muscle tissue. They are also called leiomyomas or myomas and are the most common type of pelvic growth in women.
Are There Different Types of Fibroids?
Fibroids vary in size, shape and location. They may grow inside the uterus, on the outer surface, within the wall or attach by a thin stem.
They can be as small as a pea or as large as a grapefruit. As they grow, they can change the shape of the uterus inside or out. Some become large enough to fill the pelvis or abdomen.
You may have one fibroid or several. Some stay small for years while others grow quickly.
Who Is Most Likely to Have Fibroids?
Fibroids are most common in women ages 30 to 40, but they can occur at any age. They occur more often in Black women and tend to appear earlier and grow faster. These differences may be tied to societal inequities that increase health risks.
Fibroids can also run in families, so having a family history can be a factor.
Common Symptoms of Fibroids
Women describe their symptoms differently, but these are the ones I hear most:
- Heavy bleeding or long periods
- Pelvic pain or strong cramping
- Lower belly pressure or fullness
- Bloating that changes how your clothes fit
- Painful periods that interrupt your daily life
- Frequent urination because the uterus presses on the bladder
- Pain during intercourse
- Back or hip discomfort from fibroid pressure
Many women also feel tired because heavy bleeding can cause anemia. Some women have no symptoms and are diagnosed with fibroids during a routine examination.
These symptoms should never be ignored. Your body is asking for attention and care.
How Do I Know If I Have Fibroids?
Fibroids are often suspected during a routine pelvic exam. Tests that can provide more information include:
- Ultrasound: uses sound waves to create pictures of the uterus
- Hysteroscopy: uses a thin scope through the vagina to view the inside of the uterus
- Hysterosalpingography: an X-ray to check the uterus and fallopian tubes
- Sonohysterography: ultrasound with fluid placed in the uterus for clearer images
- Laparoscopy: a small camera inserted near the belly button to view the pelvis
MRI or CT scans are rarely needed. Some tests may help track growth over time.
Can Fibroids Affect Pregnancy or Fertility?
Most fibroids do not cause major problems, but some can lead to pain, nausea or fever if they twist or grow quickly. Rarely, fibroids can be linked with cancer.
Although fibroids can affect fertility in some women, many become pregnant naturally after fibroid treatment.
Do Fibroids Need Treatment?
Some fibroids do not need treatment, especially if they are small, cause no symptoms or occur near menopause. Treatment may be needed if you have:
- Heavy or painful periods that cause anemia or interrupt your life
- Bleeding between periods
- Rapid fibroid growth
- Infertility
- Pelvic pain
Can Medications Be Used to Treat Fibroids?
Medications can help with symptoms, but they do not usually stop fibroid growth. Options include:
- Birth control pills or hormonal methods
- GnRH agonists
- GnRH antagonists with add-back therapy
- Progestin-releasing IUD
- Tranexamic acid (TXA)
What Types of Surgeries May Be Done to Treat Fibroids?
Myomectomy: removes fibroids while keeping the uterus.
Hysterectomy: removes the uterus when other treatments are not possible.
Uterine artery embolization: blocks blood flow to fibroids, causing them to shrink.
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA): uses heat to shrink fibroids.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the first signs of fibroids?
Heavy bleeding, pelvic pressure, painful periods or bloating that feels unusual.
Can fibroids cause pain outside my period?
Yes. Fibroids can cause ongoing pressure or discomfort.
Do fibroids always need treatment?
No. Treatment depends on symptoms and how fibroids affect your life.
You Deserve Answers and Relief
You do not have to keep guessing why you feel the way you do. At Tanner Healthcare for Women, we take your symptoms seriously, explain what we see and help you find a plan that feels right for you.
If you live in Carrollton, Villa Rica, Bremen or Wedowee, you can find experienced fibroid care close to home with a team that listens and supports you from your first visit.
To speak with a provider or learn more, call 770-214-2121.