MOST COMMON FIBROID SYMPTOMS EXPLAINED. DOES THIS SOUND FAMILIAR?

What are fibroids?
Uterine fibroids are abnormal growths of muscle tissue that form in or on the walls of the uterus. Fibroids are benign (not harmful or life-threatening), but they can cause symptoms.

Causes of Fibroids
The causes of fibroids are not completely proven. It is rare in women in their 20s and becomes more common with advanced age and after reproduction. The origin of fibroids is more likely to be due to hormonal components, it has been shown that the growth of fibroids is generated by increased levels of progesterone.

Diagnosing Fibroids
They are usually diagnosed during a consultation with the gynecologist after a routine check-up. The diagnosis is made by transvaginal ultrasound or MRI.

Fibroid Symptoms

Not all women have fibroids that are symptomatic. However, for some, the symptoms can be excruciating. Here are some common symptoms:

• Heavy uterine bleeding

The presence of heavy menstrual bleeding also called menorrhagia; can be a clear symptom of the presence of fibroids. In this instance women need to use an unusual amount of products, such as tampons or pads, to contain heavy bleeding, for these extended periods.

• Bleeding between periods

It is not usual that irregular or prolonged bleeding occurs during the intervals of the menstrual period. When there is abundant bleeding or clots after a woman’s period, it is also a symptom of fibroids. This is known as irregular or prolonged bleeding, which is technically when it occurs for more than seven days and there are less than 3 weeks between the start of a period and the next cycle.

• Anemia

The presence of heavy bleeding can lead to anemia due to a lack of iron caused by blood loss. If there is not enough stored iron in the body to replace what has been lost, anemia occurs.

• Sensation of pelvic weight in the lower mid-region

In some instances, pelvic pain can be a symptom of fibroids. Of course, during diagnosis by the OBGYN, they will rule out other possible causes. But generally speaking this feeling of heaviness in the pelvic region is oftentimes caused by uterine fibroids.
It may be accompanied by other symptoms, such as heavy or abnormal bleeding between
periods.

• Need to urinate frequently

This is due to the pressure exerted by the fibroid on the bladder. This results in frequent urination.

• Pain during sexual intercourse and other sexual complications

Fibroids can also cause alterations in sexual function in women including pain, dyspareunia, orgasm disorders, decreased libido, decreased lubrication vaginal, and obstructive and irritative symptoms in the bladder.

Pain during sexual intercourse can be evidenced as a symptom of uterine fibroids when the fibroid mass enters the vagina. Repeated contact can irritate the vagina.

• Infertility

Although fibroids are not the direct cause of infertility, they can create complications to achieve pregnancy and can also contribute to miscarriage. Depending on the type of fibroid and where it is located, this can complicate pregnancy. Fibroids are classified into several classes, those of the Subserous type, which are located on the outside of the uterus. As well as Intramural-type, fibroids that are located in the central part of the uterus and these usually do not present problems with pregnancy. Submucosal fibroids are found inside the uterus, which could affect the implantation of the egg, complicating the creation of the embryo. This can result in a miscarriage in the first trimester.

• Lower back pain

Fibroids can cause pain in the back, legs, and sciatica, as they can put pressure on the nerves that pass near them.

• Constipation

Large fibroids can cause pain, ache, and discomfort by pressing on the rectum and causing constipation to occur.

With the appearance of any of these symptoms, the specialist should be consulted promptly, to determine the necessary diagnostic and, depending on the diagnosis, seek the appropriate treatment for you.

Do you have Uterine Fibroids and need treatment?

Looking to find the Best Treatment for Uterine Fibroids in Miami, Pompano, and South Florida, we can help. Broward County: (954) 884-8150 Dade County: ​​(305) 907-6191.

If you are in the Miami or South Florida area, feel free to request a consultation or even a virtual office visit so you can speak to one of our doctors from the comfort of your home.

For more information on Uterine Fibroid Embolization or to schedule an appointment call: (305) 907-6191