Menstrual problems, pelvic pain? Don’t ignore these common symptoms of uterine fibroids

Fibroids are common, affecting as many as 80% of women in their reproductive years. Knowing the symptoms of uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomas or myomas, can help women know when it’s time to see a specialist. Many women don’t even know that they have fibroids because they don’t have any symptoms. Other women do have issues, such as menstrual problems that they shouldn’t ignore. It’s always a good idea to talk to our San Antonio OBGYNs when you are having health issues, so you don’t develop complications.

What are the symptoms of uterine fibroids?

Uterine fibroids are growths that form inside the uterine wall or cavity, or outside the uterus. They can be small or very large. Most of the time, they don’t cause problems. They are only cancerous about 1% of the time.

If our San Antonio OBGYNs find fibroids during an examination or imaging test, they will tell you about the growth(s) and what, if any, treatment they might recommend. Often, they just monitor the fibroids and leave them alone.

Knowing about the symptoms of uterine fibroids helps you know when to seek treatment.

• Menstrual problems. If your periods are longer or more frequent than normal, or you bleed or spot between periods or experience heavy menstrual bleeding, fibroids may be the problem.
• Pain or pressure. Growths can cause sharp, dull or frequent pain in the pelvic region, abdomen or lower back. They can also make sex painful. You may also experience an uncomfortable full feeling in your pelvis, or have painful cramps.
• Urinary or bowel problems. Myomas can cause you to urinate frequently or even have trouble peeing. They can make bowel movements difficult, or cause constipation and rectal pain.
• Enlarged, distended abdomen. You may notice that your abdomen is larger, making you look pregnant, if you have a large fibroid.
• Fertility issues. Depending on their location, myomas could block your fallopian tubes or make it difficult for embryos to implant in the uterine wall.

See our San Antonio OBGYNs to avoid complications from symptomatic fibroids

Our physicians always recommend an examination if you have any symptoms of uterine fibroids. While serious complications aren’t common, you could develop anemia, experience severe pain, or have problems getting pregnant. If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should seek care immediately.

• Severe, heavy vaginal bleeding
• Severe abdominal or pelvic pain
• Symptoms accompanied by fever and nausea

The best way for you to prevent serious complications from uterine fibroids is to see our OBGYNs if you notice any menstrual problems or other symptoms of uterine fibroids. Contact us for an appointment.