Large Fibroid Uterus
A uterus containing fibroids can enlarge from the size of a fist to the size of a watermelon, similar to a full-term pregnancy. The earlier this is recognized the more simple and effective treatments options that will be available. While some fibroids start with symptoms of heavy cycles and pain, as they become bigger, they result in more symptoms that are the effects of having a large uterus taking up space in the pelvis.
If you are already suffering from an enlarged uterus with the 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 a large fibroid uterus. If you have fibroids, it is not unusual to experience mood swings, low energy, or even depression. There is no reason to live in misery trying to avoid surgery, as the UFE procedure may be an option even for those with very large fibroids, depending on the situation. Our specialist has treated many women with fibroids over 10 cm.
How do Fibroid cause a Large Uterus?
Fibroids continue to grow larger over time and as this happens the uterus will have to expand in size and continue to take more of the space in your pelvis. This space is shared with many vital organs, such as your bladder, colon, blood vessels and nerves. This doesn’t have to be caused by one large fibroid, multiple small or moderate sized fibroids can also cause the uterus to become larger.
Symptoms of a Large Uterus:
- Frequent urination – a large uterus sits on top of the bladder limiting the space that the bladder can expand, this causes frequent urination or incontinence issues.
- Constipation – pressure from the fibroids on the colon can cause the stool to back up, some may also experience diarrhea
- Lower abdominal pain – fibroids in the lower abdomen can mimic other condition
- Bloating – pressure from the fibroids may press on the bowels limiting movement and causing bloating and excess gas
- Heavy menstruation – many patients have anemia because of cycles that are irregular, heavy with spotting and blood clot
- Back pain – fibroid pressure can press on the nerves in pelvis or cause asymmetric weight straining back muscles
- Weight gain – as the uterus enlarges this can cause a bulging abdomen and weight gain in the waste area
- Headaches – it is not uncommon for a very large fibroid uterus to also be associated with headaches and migraines
- Leg pain – some patients can have leg pain because the pressure in the pelvis from the enlarged uterus makes it more difficult for blood to return back to the heart, this can cause blot clots in the legs called a DVT
- Painful intercourse – a big uterus can cause added pressure deep in the pelvis
- Pregnancy problems – with very large fibroids many patients cannot conceive as it can lead to premature labor or miscarriage
Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) for a Large Fibroid Uterus
UFE is a possible treatment option for an enlarged uterus and fibroids compared to a hysterectomy or a myomectomy. With a hysterectomy, your uterus is surgically removed, and during a myomectomy, a team surgically removes your fibroids. UFE can help you get your life back without any scarring or hospital stay. It can reduce the size of your fibroids, relieve your 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 tube is placed in the artery
- Small beads are placed into the fibroid artery
- The tube 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.
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.
