Fibroids and Menstrual Pain
The intensity of fibroid pain can vary from mild to extreme and typically occurs just after the end of menstruation, which can be debilitating.1 Women with fibroids are more likely to have pain throughout all phases of their monthly cycle than women without fibroids.1 If you consistently experience severe, debilitating menstrual cramps you could have uterine fibroids. Fibroids are very vascular and can grow to a large size quickly if left untreated, worsening symptoms.2
How many social engagements or events have you avoided due to your fibroid pain? CVI is California’s top fibroid center and our board-certified fibroid specialist can recognize the subtle differences between fibroid pain and other causes. You do not need to continue living in pain or schedule your life around your period, a permanent effective non-surgical option is available.
Fibroids and Pelvic Pain
Fibroids that are large can cause increased pressure and pain in the pelvis. Fibroids continue to grow as long as they have robust blood flow and as their size increases, they continue to take up more space in the pelvis affecting the nearby organs. This can result in greater pelvic pressure when the fibroids grown beyond the size of the uterus.3
The location of the fibroid can also affect the type of pain experienced. A pedunculated fibroid (fibroid inside the cavity of the uterus) can twist on itself causing intense acute pelvic pain.4 A fibroid that’s under the uterine lining can cause painful stretching.2 Fibroids can sometimes outgrow their blood supply and when this happens you can experience severe unexpected pelvic.
Fibroids that are along the back of the uterus can cause back pain or press on the sciatic nerve. As the pressure on the nerve grows you can experience pain that runs down your leg.2 Fibroids along the back or bottom of the uterus can press of the rectum causing constipation or the constant feeling of needing to have a bowel movement.5 If the fibroid is large enough it can also cause problems with blood flow resulting in DVT in the legs, which will cause pain and swelling.
Menstrual and Pelvic pain – What is the typical pain for fibroids?
- Painful heavy menstruation
- Pain after end of period
- Pelvic pain
- Lower back or leg pain
- Pain during intercourse
- Abdominal swelling and bloating
If you are already suffering from painful fibroids with other symptoms below, you probably already know that this combination can make you miserable. Along with these physical symptoms, your emotions can also be impacted by having heavy cycles. If you have fibroids, it is not unusual to experience mood swings, low energy, loss of productivity or even depression.1,6 There is no reason to live in misery trying to avoid surgery, as the UFE procedure is a great option for those with very heavy cycles. Our specialist has treated many women with fibroid pain with resolution by the 3rd cycle.
Other Fibroid Symptoms:
- Heavy cycles and blood clots
- Frequent urination due pressure on the bladder
- Bloating or protruding belly
- Back or leg pain
- Pelvic pressure
- Pain during intercourse
- Constipation
- Difficulty getting pregnant
If you experience these symptoms but have not been evaluated, you can request a consultation with our board-certified fibroid specialist. Our fibroid center not only has the top fibroid specialist in California but also the best supportive staff to make your journey a smooth experience. With multiple offices and telemedicine this should be the first office when you search for a fibroid specialist near me.
Treatment Options for Fibroid Pain at California Fibroid Center
The good news is that you don’t need to decide between living in pain and major surgery, as there are non-surgical options. Our fibroid specialist along with your OBGYN will determine the most appropriate treatment option for you. The goal is to treat the root cause of your fibroid pain to return your life back to normal as quick as possible. Options include:
- Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE)
- Myomectomy
- Hormone replacement therapy
- Birth control pills
- Hysterectomy
- Heating pads, Icepacks, Pain relievers
- Warm baths or showers
Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) for Fibroid Pain
UFE is a great treatment option for painful cramps caused by fibroids compared to a hysterectomy or a myomectomy. With a hysterectomy, your uterus is surgically removed, and during a myomectomy, a doctor surgically removes your fibroids. UFE can help you get your life back without any scarring, surgical risk, general anesthesia or hospital stay. It can reduce the size of your fibroids, relieve your pain symptoms, and retain your fertility. Most women can return to their normal activities in two to seven days.
How is the UFE performed?
- You will receive twilight sedation to help you relax
- Our specialist numbs the skin on the wrist or groin
- A tiny catheter is placed
- Small beads are placed into the fibroid artery
- The catheter is removed
- Band-Aid is applied
- Recover at home
Read more about the UFE procedure (click here)
We are Here to Help
Request an appointment to meet with our fibroid specialist who will review your imaging, labs and history to determine if you are candidate for the procedure, and the outcomes you can expect. Each woman is an individual and should discuss the potential risks and benefits of fibroid embolization and other Treatments with our doctor to decide which option is best for her.
Appointments are available via an online video telehealth platform or in person at one of the offices in Los Angeles, Orange County or San Diego. Why should you choose us? Read here.
1.) 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.
2.) Bukulmez, O., & Doody, K. J. (2006). Clinical features of myomas. Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinics of North America, 33(1), 69–84.
3.) Stewart, E. A. (2001). Uterine fibroids. Lancet, 357(9252), 293–298.
4.) Duhan, N., & Sirohiwal, D. (2010). Uterine myomas revisited. European Journal of Obstetrics Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, 152(2), 119–125.
5.) Khan, A. T., Shehmar, M., Gupta, J. K., & Gupta, J. (2014). Uterine fibroids: current perspectives. International Journal of Women’s Health, 6, 95–114.
6.) Gupta, S., Jose, J., & Manyonda, I. (2008). Clinical presentation of fibroids. Best Practice and Research: Clinical Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 22(4), 615–626.
The above information explains what is involved and the possible risks. It is not meant to be a substitute for informed discussion between you and your doctor but can act as a starting point for such a discussion.
