However, because of the broad range of presenting symptoms of fibroids, gynecologic evaluation is needed to confirm the diagnosis. If fibroids cause symptoms related to the pressure they exert on other structures, they most commonly cause a sensation of pressure or discomfort in the pelvis. This may feel like heaviness, bloating, a dull ache, or mild tenderness of the fibroids themselves. The discomfort may be greater with exercise, while bending over or during sexual intercourse. As fibroids grow, they may compress nerves that supply the pelvis and the legs, causing pain in the back, flank, or legs.
Patients also report increasingly severe menstrual cramps with the growth of their fibroids.
Urinary Symptoms Pressure on the urinary system also may be caused by fibroids. Occasionally, an enlarged uterus may press on other urinary structures resulting in partial blockage of the urine flow from the kidneys. On occasion, fibroids may also cause rectal pain or pressure. Many of these symptoms may be cyclic, worse in the days leading up to the menstrual period and during the period. If the fibroids get large enough, the pressure and discomfort they cause may occur at any time.