5 Signs of Problematic Fibroids

Whether you know what a fibroid is or not, chances are you have them or will have them. According to the Office on Women’s Health, as many as 80 percent of women will develop one in their lifetimes. Anyone can develop fibroids, but they are more common in older women, those with a family history, women who are obese or overweight, and African American women.

Fibroids are muscular tumors that grow in a woman’s uterus. Although the word “tumor” may sound scary, fibroids are almost always non-cancerous. However, some women experience painful and uncomfortable symptoms and complications, and some do not.

Expert gynecologist, Christopher Serrano, MD, at Serrano OBGyn, in San Antonio, Texas, offers personalized treatment plans to help relieve symptoms and prevent complications. So how do you know if you have fibroids? Here are five signs and symptoms.

Abnormal periods

Menstrual cycles are different for everyone. Normal menstrual cycles occur every 21 to 35 days and last about two to seven days. If your menstrual cycles are longer or heavier than usual for you, or you notice bleeding or spotting between periods, fibroids may be the culprit. 

Urination problems

Fibroids can cause problems with painful urination, frequent urination, or difficulty urinating. They can also cause constipation and pelvic or rectal pain.

Pain with sex

Pain during intercourse, also called dyspareunia, is a common symptom of fibroids. The pain can occur before, during, or after sex.

Lower back pain

Pain is a common symptom of fibroids. Many people feel it in their lower back. It’s usually a dull, achy, and heavy pain, but it can also be a sudden and sharp pain. 

Pelvic pain

Women often feel pressure and pain and bloating and cramping in their pelvic region when they have fibroids. 

Fibroid treatment options

Treatment options range from over-the-counter pain relievers to surgery. At Serrano OBGyn, Dr. Serrano offers diagnostic and individualized treatment plans to address your specific symptoms. Treatment options include:

• Dietary modifications
• Low-dose birth control pills 
• Hormonal IUD
• Minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery
• A hysterectomy (for those who do not want children or more children)

Fortunately, many treatment options are available to help you find relief. Our experienced healthcare team recommends the best treatments based on your health, symptoms, and plans for a family.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms or you think you have fibroids, contact Serrano OBGyn, to make an appointment.