Fibroids Singapore: What causes them to Be Painful?

Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that can grow within or on your uterus. Many people with fibroids experience no symptoms.

However, others may suffer from severe discomfort and complications. Learn more: https://endofibroid.com.sg/service/fibroids/.

Since symptoms do not always cause symptoms if you’re are causing pain you may want to ask; what causes fibroids to be painful? And how can I stop my fibroids from hurting?

We will be answering those questions and related ones on this page. But before that;

What Are Severe Symptoms of Fibroids?

Fibroids can vary in size, number, and location, leading to a range of symptoms. Severe symptoms often include:

  • Heavy Menstrual Bleeding: Many individuals with fibroids experience menorrhagia, characterized by prolonged and heavy menstrual periods. This heavy bleeding can lead to anemia and cause not just fatigue but also weakness.
  • Pelvic Pain and Pressure: Large fibroids can exert pressure on pelvic organs and causes persistent pelvic discomfort or pain. This pressure may also cause a sensation of fullness or bloating in the lower abdomen.
  • Frequent Urination: When fibroids press against the bladder, they can increase urinary frequency or urgency. In some cases, this pressure may lead to difficulty emptying the bladder completely.
  • Constipation: Fibroids located near the rectum can cause bowel compression. Because of this effect, you may experience constipation or difficulty with bowel movements.
  • Pain during Intercourse: Some individuals experience dyspareunia, or pain during sexual intercourse, due to the presence of fibroids. This is especially true when they are located near the cervix or lower uterus.
  • Lower Back and Leg Pain: Fibroids that press on nerves can cause pain radiating to the lower back or legs. This symptom is more common with larger fibroids that extend towards the back of the pelvic cavity.

What Is the Most Common Cause of Pain in Fibroids?

The primary cause of pain associated with fibroids is related to their size, location, and the pressure they exert on surrounding organs. One common cause of fibroid pain is a process called degeneration.

As fibroids grow, they may outgrow their blood supply. This may lead to a lack of oxygen and nutrients. This deprivation causes the fibroid cells to degenerate, resulting in acute pain and swelling.

Another source of pain is the pressure fibroids exert on adjacent pelvic organs. For instance, fibroids pressing against the bladder can cause discomfort and urinary symptoms, while those near the rectum may lead to rectal pressure and constipation.

Also, fibroids located within the uterine wall can cause severe menstrual cramps by disrupting the normal contraction patterns of the uterus during menstruation. And as earlier mentioned, pain during sexual intercourse can also occur, particularly when fibroids are situated near the cervix or lower part of the uterus.

The mechanical pressure during intercourse can lead to discomfort or pain. In some cases, fibroids can cause referred pain, where the discomfort is felt in areas distant from the actual location of the fibroid, such as the lower back or legs, due to nerve compression.

How Can I Get My Fibroids to Stop Hurting?

Managing fibroid-related pain involves a combination of medical treatments and lifestyle modifications. The appropriate approach depends on the severity of symptoms, size and location of the fibroids, and individual health considerations. Here are some effective ways to stop your fibroids from hurting;

  • Get Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can help reduce mild to moderate pain. For more severe symptoms, hormonal therapies, including birth control pills or gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists, may be prescribed to regulate menstrual cycles and reduce bleeding. These medications can also help shrink fibroid size, thereby reducing pain.
  • Consider Minimally Invasive Procedures: For individuals who do not respond to medication, procedures like uterine artery embolization (UAE) can be considered. UAE involves blocking the blood supply to the fibroids, causing them to shrink and die, which can alleviate pain and other symptoms.
  • Consider Surgery: In cases of severe symptoms or large fibroids, surgery may be necessary. Myomectomy involves the removal of fibroids while preserving the uterus, suitable for individuals who wish to maintain fertility. Hysterectomy, the removal of the uterus, is considered for those with debilitating symptoms who have completed childbearing.
  • Lifestyle Adjustments: Regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight can help manage symptoms. Stress reduction may also reduce discomfort. Dietary changes, including reducing red meat intake and increasing the consumption of fruits and vegetables, have been suggested to potentially influence fibroid development and symptoms, though more research is needed in this area.

How Do I Know If My Fibroid Has Burst?

While rare, a ruptured fibroid can lead to serious complications. Symptoms of a ruptured fibroid include:

  • Acute Abdominal Pain: A sudden, sharp pain in the abdomen is a common indicator. This pain may be localized to the area of the fibroid and can be severe.
  • Vaginal Bleeding: Unexpected vaginal bleeding, ranging from spotting to heavy flow, may occur. This bleeding is not associated with the menstrual cycle and can be alarming.
  • Low-Grade Fever: A mild fever may develop as the body responds to the rupture. This fever is typically low-grade but should not be ignored.
  • Elevated White Blood Cell Count: A ruptured fibroid can cause an increase in white blood cells, indicating an inflammatory response. This is usually detected through blood tests.

In some cases, a ruptured fibroid can lead to significant blood loss, resulting in symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, or a drop in blood pressure. These signs require immediate medical attention.

It’s important to note that while these symptoms can indicate a ruptured fibroid, they may also be associated with other medical conditions. Therefore, experiencing any combination of these symptoms warrants prompt evaluation by a women’s health specialist to determine the exact cause and initiate appropriate treatment.

Closing Thoughts

Uterine fibroids can cause a range of symptoms. Early consultation with a healthcare provider can lead to effective management and improved quality of life if your fibroids are causing symptoms.

That said, if you’re experiencing symptoms related to uterine fibroids, don’t wait for them to worsen. Consult with a women’s health specialist to see your treatment options and find relief. Easily book an appointment below:

Centre For Endometriosis And Fibroids – A/Prof Fong Yoke Fai | Gynaecologist Singapore

38 Irrawaddy Rd, #05-49 Mount Elizabeth Novena Medical Centre,

Singapore 329563

+65 6334 1981

https://endofibroid.com.sg/