What Causes an Enlarged Uterus?
You might not think much about your growing uterus unless you're pregnant, but even if you’re not pregnant, your uterus may become enlarged for several reasons. Let’s look at what those are.
Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids Other Than Heavy Periods
Heavy periods are nothing short of a nuisance. They can contribute to fatigue, increase your risk of anemia, cause painful periods, and limit your ability to engage in your favorite athletic activities. Heavy periods are often the result of uterine fibroids, but unfortunately, it’s not the only symptom.
Here in Fresno, California, our team at Fresno Fibroid Center knows firsthand how uterine fibroids can impact your quality of life. That’s why we offer low risk, minimally invasive therapy for uterine fibroids. If you suspect you have uterine fibroids, we encourage you to visit us to get the relief you need. And learning to identify the symptoms of uterine fibroids is the first step toward finding relief.
Let’s take a look at some warning signs of fibroids other than heavy periods.
Pain
There are many reasons why you might develop pelvic pain. Three examples of potential causes of pelvic pain include menstrual cramps, endometriosis, and ovarian cysts. Fibroids can also cause pelvic pain if they grow large enough to press on your surrounding organs, but they can also cause pain outside of the pelvic region.
Depending on the location of your fibroid, you might experience:
- Lower abdominal pain
- Lower back pain
- Pain in the back of your legs (including sciatica)
- Discomfort during sexual intercourse
- Fullness or bloating
- Painful pressure on your rectum
A comprehensive gynecologic exam is the best way to determine if a fibroid is the source of your pain.
Urinary symptoms
If your fibroid grows big enough to press on your bladder, you may experience urinary symptoms. Many women with fibroids report increased urinary frequency and/or a sense of urgency.
Constipation
Just as a fibroid pressing on your bladder can cause issues, so can a fibroid that presses on your bowels. Fibroids can cause issues, such as constipation and bowel incontinence.
Note: Constipation is a relatively common condition that can be caused by diet and dehydration. If you add more fiber into your diet and drink enough water but still struggle with constipation, don’t hesitate to let us know.
Fertility issues
Though many factors contribute to fertility issues, uterine fibroids can be one of them. Fibroids can make conception difficult if they block the fallopian tube (the place where conception occurs before the embryo moves to the uterus). They can also make implantation more complicated if you have several fibroids.
If you suspect that an untreated fibroid is contributing to fertility issues, reach out to us. Treating uterine fibroids can potentially improve your chances of successful pregnancy.
Exploring your fibroid treatment options
Keep in mind that all of these symptoms can have multiple causes. If you suspect you have a fibroid or are struggling with any of these symptoms, make an appointment with our team. We’re 100% dedicated to the management and treatment of uterine fibroids.
Here at Fresno Fibroid Center, our team specializes in fibroid diagnosis and treatment, and depending on your symptoms, we may recommend any of the following treatments:
- Watchful waiting and careful monitoring
- Medication-based treatments, including hormone treatment
- Magnetic resonance-guided focused ultrasound surgery (MRgFUS)
- Procedure-based treatments, including uterine fibroid embolization, endometrial ablation, myomectomy, and hysterectomy (in severe cases)
Heavy periods are just one of the many symptoms of fibroids, but whether you experience one or all of these symptoms, you don’t have to suffer from fibroids forever. To learn more about your options, give us a call at 559-216-0746. You can also click here to book your next appointment.
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