Understanding Fibroids: Symptoms, Treatments and More

Uterine fibroids are a common problem for women of childbearing age, often leading to heavy or irregular periods, pelvic pain or anemia.

These growths that develop in the uterus (womb) affect up to 80 percent of women experience fibroids by the time they’re 50 years old, according to the Office on Women’s Health. Fibroids, which are common, noncancerous growths that form in the muscular tissue in the wall of the uterus, don’t always cause symptoms, but those that do may result in heavy menstrual bleeding and severe abdominal pain.

“Why do they form? Nobody knows,” said Tina Ayeni, MD, an Indianapolis gynecologic oncologist with Franciscan Physician Network Gynecologic Oncology Specialists. “I've removed fibroids that are 20 to 30 centimeters in size, so benign disease, but they can cause symptoms, and it's usually because of the symptoms that leads to surgery.” 

Learn more about fibroid symptoms and treatment options for uterine fibroids.

Fibroids Signs And Symptoms

Most women with fibroids don’t experience any symptoms. Many fibroids are small tumors, though they can grow as large as a grapefruit. When fibroids symptoms occur, they can include:

• Constipation
• Difficulty getting pregnant
• Feeling of fullness or bloating in your lower abdomen
• Frequent urination
• Heavy bleeding during periods
• Lower back pain
• Pain during sex
• Painful periods that last longer than a week

Fibroids Increase Your Risk For Other Health Problems

Fibroids can cause reproductive problems, including infertility (though it is rare). They commonly increase your risk for complications during pregnancy and labor.

Treatment For Fibroids

In the past, a hysterectomy – surgically removing the uterus – was the standard treatment for fibroids. Today, women have less invasive options. Franciscan Health women’s health specialists also can use uterine fibroid embolization to block blood supply to the fibroid to make it shrink.

Pain Management: At-Home Remedies

Recommended at-home remedies for fibroids focus on stress relief. High levels of stress can increase your risk for fibroids and many other health conditions. To manage your fibroid pain and reduce your stress levels, you can try:

• Massage therapy
• Warm baths
• Warm compress or heating pad
• Yoga or meditation

Lifestyle Changes For Fibroids

You can make healthy changes that may help reduce your risk of developing fibroids or even shrink the fibroids you already have. These changes include:

• Eating a healthy, balanced diet
• Ensuring your blood pressure is in check
• Getting regular physical activity
• Limiting your alcohol and caffeine intake
• Managing your day-to-day stress levels
• Quitting smoking

Research  has shown that women with vitamin D deficiency may be at an increased risk for developing fibroids. Speak with your primary care or women’s health provider about whether adding a vitamin D supplement to your diet makes sense.

When Doctors Recommend Surgery For Fibroids

If less invasive treatments aren’t enough to manage your fibroids, Franciscan Health offers two surgical options:

• Myomectomy. During this minimally invasive robotic-assisted procedure, the surgeon removes fibroids.
• Hysterectomy. Franciscan Health offers minimally invasive and robotic da Vinci® hysterectomies.

Don’t Wait – Get Care Now

If you think you may have uterine fibroids, schedule an appointment with your Franciscan Health gynecologist. A hysterectomy isn’t the only treatment option today. Less invasive, innovative treatment options are available; you don’t have to continue experiencing symptoms. We are here with proven treatments and relief.