Could It Be Fibroids? Understanding the Symptoms and Your Options

If you’ve been dealing with heavier periods than usual, unexplained pelvic pressure, or discomfort that’s hard to pin down, you’re not alone and you’re not imagining it. Uterine fibroids are one of the most common health conditions affecting women, and yet many women live with symptoms for years before getting an answer. 

The good news: fibroids are well understood, highly manageable, and rarely dangerous. Axia care teams can help you understand what fibroids are, the symptoms to watch for, and the range of treatment options available. 

What Are Fibroids? 

Fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus. They’re extremely common with estimates suggesting that up to 80% of women will develop fibroids at some point by age 50. Many women have fibroids and never know it, because they cause no symptoms at all. For others, fibroids can significantly affect day-to-day comfort and quality of life. 

Fibroids vary widely in size, number, and location, which is part of why symptoms — and the right treatment — can look so different from person to person. 

Common Symptoms: Does This Sound Familiar? 

Not every symptom below means you have fibroids, and having one or two doesn’t mean something is seriously wrong. But if several of these sound familiar, it’s worth a conversation with your provider. 

Period changes 

– Heavier menstrual bleeding than you’re used to 

– Periods that last longer than 7 days 

– Passing blood clots during your period 

– Needing to change a pad or tampon every hour or two on your heaviest days 

Pelvic symptoms 

– A feeling of pressure or fullness in your lower belly 

– Pelvic pain or aching, not tied to your period 

– Pain during sex 

– Lower back pain 

Bladder and bowel symptoms 

– Needing to urinate more frequently, or feeling like you can’t fully empty your bladder 

– Constipation or bloating 

If you’re dealing with a combination of these, especially heavy bleeding paired with pelvic pressure,  it’s a reasonable and common reason to bring it up at your next visit. 

When Should You Talk to Your Provider? 

You don’t need to wait for symptoms to become severe. Consider scheduling a visit if: 

– Your periods are interfering with your normal activities, work, or sleep 

– You’re soaking through pads or tampons faster than every 1–2 hours 

– You’re experiencing new or worsening pelvic pain 

Your provider can confirm whether fibroids are the cause through a simple pelvic exam and, often, an ultrasound.  

Your Treatment Options 

One of the most important things to know about fibroids: there is no one-size-fits-all treatment, and having fibroids doesn’t automatically mean you need surgery. Treatment depends on your symptoms, the size and location of your fibroids, whether you want to have children in the future, and your personal preferences. Options include: 

Watchful waiting. If fibroids aren’t causing symptoms, monitoring may be all that’s needed. 

Medication. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help with cramping, and hormonal treatments can help manage heavy bleeding for some women. 

Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE). A minimally invasive procedure that shrinks fibroids by cutting off their blood supply. It’s performed without surgical incisions and typically allows for a faster recovery than surgery, while preserving the uterus. 

Myomectomy. A surgical procedure that removes fibroids while leaving the uterus in place — often an option for women who want to preserve fertility. 

Hysterectomy. Surgical removal of the uterus, which fully resolves fibroid symptoms and may be recommended for women with severe symptoms who don’t wish to preserve fertility. 

Your provider will walk you through which options make sense for your specific situation and it’s a decision you’ll make together. 

The Bottom Line 

Fibroids are common, well-researched, and manageable. If these symptoms sound familiar, talk to your provider and they will help you assess your options.  

Have questions about your symptoms? Schedule an appointment with your provider today to talk through what you’re experiencing and what options might be right for you.