women s health issues
Uterine Fibroids
Symptoms of Fibroids
Symptoms depend on Location in the uterus Size Number of fibroids Many fibroids do not cause symptoms. The larger the fibroid, the more likely it is to cause symptoms. A common symptom of fibroids is abnormal uterine bleeding. This can be heavy menstrual periods or periods that last longer than usual (more than 8 days in a cycle). Sometimes fibroids cause bleeding between periods. Bleeding may be severe and can result in Overview of Anemia . Fibroids in the wall of the uterus (intramural) may cause heavy bleeding by making it difficult for the uterus to contract. Contracting is how the uterus controls blood flow during a menstrual period or other episodes of uterine bleeding. Fibroids located under the lining of the uterine cavity (submucosal) cause bleeding by changing the surface of the uterine cavity and the lining, which is shed during a menstrual period. Fibroids that protrude into the cavity of the uterus (intracavitary) cause the most change in the surface and usually cause more severe abnormal bleeding. Changes in the uterine cavity may also cause Overview of Infertility by blocking the fallopian tubes or making it difficult for a pregnancy to implant, which can interfere with getting pregnant or increase the risk of Large fibroids may cause pain, pressure, or a feeling of heaviness in the pelvic area during or between menstrual periods. This may be because the fibroids make the uterus larger overall, causing the abdomen to distend (stick out), or the uterus may press on surrounding organs, such as the intestines or bladder. Pedunculated fibroids that protrude into the abdomen can also press on surrounding organs and tissues and cause pressure or pain. Fibroids may press on the bladder, making a woman need to urinate more frequently or more urgently. Sometimes they press on other parts of the urinary tract and can block the flow of urine. They may press on the rectum, causing discomfort and constipation. A fibroid growing on a stalk may twist, cutting off its blood supply, and cause severe pain. Fibroids that are growing or degenerating can cause pressure or pain. Pain due to degenerating fibroids can last as long as they continue to degenerate. Fibroids that cause no symptoms before pregnancy may cause problems during pregnancy. Problems include Miscarriage None Preterm Labor None Fetal Presentation, Position, and Lie (Including Breech Presentation) before delivery Excessive Uterine Bleeding at Delivery (postpartum hemorrhage) 