Only about a quarter of women with fibroids experience symptoms or problems because of them. They may grow very slow or can be fast growing. Signs that you may be developing fibroids include:
Heavy bleeding during periods
Bleeding between periods
Pain in your low back or belly
Pressure or fullness in your belly
Pain during sex
Several miscarriages or trouble getting pregnant
Infertility because of fibroids is rare, but their location in the uterus can make it more challenging to become pregnant. Heavy bleeding with your periods can cause you to feel tired or become anemic. Over-the-counter iron supplements can help. You can also take ibuprofen or other pain relievers to help with cramps. Large fibroids can cause your stomach to swell, giving you a bloated look. They can also put pressure on your bladder, making you need to use the bathroom more often. Serious complications from fibroids are uncommon. If you begin having trouble, talk to your doctor about treatment options for fibroids. Birth control pills or other hormone therapy may be able to improve the symptoms of fibroids. You have many other treatment options available if needed. If you are nearing menopause, you may not need treatment. Once women enter menopause, their estrogen levels drop, and the fibroids shrink or go away. For more information on uterine fibroids, please contact the Magee Fibroid Treatment Center at 412-641-4435.