Uterine Fibroid Symptoms
Uterine fibroid symptoms can vary widely depending on the number, location, and size of fibroids in the affected individual. Some women are completely asymptomatic while others experience heavy menstrual bleeding, chronic pelvic discomfort, and fertility challenges.¹⁻⁴ Read below for the most common uterine fibroid symptoms, with links for each for more information.
Heavy or Prolonged Periods
• Heavy menstrual bleeding
• Lengthy periods - longer than 6 days
• Bleeding between periods
• Frequent periods - more often than every 24 days
• Irregular / unpredictable periods
Pelvic Pain
• Acute pelvic pain
• Chronic pelvic pain, not related to your cycle
• Backache or leg pain
• Pain or discomfort during intercourse
• Pain when using the bathroom
Weight Gain
• Unexplained weight gain
• Enlarged uterus
• Weight gain around the pelvis
• Bloating
Menstrual Pain
• Painful periods
• Pain occurring mid-cycle during ovulation,
around 10 days after the end of your period
• Pain after menstrual bleeding
Pelvic Pressure
• Pressure on the bladder or inside your abdomen
• Feeling bloated
• Frequent urination or urinary incontinence
• Difficulty urinating
• Constipation
Pregnancy Challenges
• Infertility
• Miscarriage
• Pain or abnormal weight gain during pregnancy
• Obstetric (childbirth) complications
References
[1] Khan, A. T., Shehmar, M., Gupta, J. K., & Gupta, J. (2014). Uterine fibroids: current perspectives. International Journal of Women’s Health, 6, 95–114.
[2] Zimmermann, A., Bernuit, D., Gerlinger, C., Schaefers, M., & Geppert, K. (2012). Prevalence, symptoms and management of uterine fibroids: An international internet-based survey of 21,746 women. BMC Women’s Health, 12(1), 6.
[3] Gupta, S., Jose, J., & Manyonda, I. (2008). Clinical presentation of fibroids. Best Practice and Research: Clinical Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 22(4), 615–626.
[4] Duhan, N., & Sirohiwal, D. (2010). Uterine myomas revisited. European Journal of Obstetrics Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, 152(2), 119–125.