Uterine fibroids are benign (noncancerous) growths that can develop in the uterus. Uterine fibroids are categorized depending on where they grow: Intramural fibroids grow inside of the uterine wall, submucosal fibroids form in the uterine cavity, and subserosal fibroids grow on the outside of your uterus.
Uterine fibroids often show no symptoms. However, depending on which type of fibroid you have and how big it is, you may experience pelvic pain, infertility, and abnormal periods.
In this blog, Dr. Essam Taymour zeroes in on four ways that uterine fibroids can affect your period and how our team at Gynecology and Obstetrics Medical Group in Long Beach, California, can help you find relief from your fibroids.
Is your period abnormal?
A normal menstrual cycle lasts anywhere from 23-35 days with about four or five bleeding days. The typical blood loss is about 2-3 tablespoons of blood. If you suspect that your period is abnormal, you can use a period-tracking app and take note of the following:
- The length of your period: Is it getting longer or shorter?
- The blood flow: Is it getting lighter, or are your periods heavier than normal?
- Any abnormal spotting or bleeding between periods
- Pain
Keep track of other symptoms, such as bloating, constipation, and feeling of fullness in your pelvic area. These are also signs of uterine fibroids.
4 ways uterine fibroids can affect your period
There are many potential causes of abnormal periods, but you might suspect that your abnormal period is due to fibroids if you experience:
Heavy bleeding
Uterine fibroids can alter the lining of the uterus, which contributes to heavier and longer bleeding. Also known as menorrhagia, heavy bleeding is defined as bleeding that lasts longer than seven days or bleeding that fills a pad or tampon within two hours.
Prolonged periods
In addition to heavy bleeding, fibroids can also cause prolonged periods, beyond seven days. This can be especially inconvenient and uncomfortable for women who have to deal with these symptoms on a regular basis.
Irregular periods
Fibroids can cause irregular periods, which can be unpredictable and inconsistent. This can make it difficult to plan for events or activities. Irregular periods can also be a source of anxiety or stress for some women.
Painful periods
Fibroids can cause painful menstruation, also known as dysmenorrhea. This can be due to the fact that fibroids can put pressure on the surrounding organs and tissues, which can cause discomfort and pain. Fibroids can also cause pain throughout your cycle regardless of whether you’re bleeding.
What to do you if have a painful or abnormal period
It’s important to note that not all women with fibroids will experience these symptoms, and the severity of symptoms can vary from woman to woman. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, Dr. Taymour can confirm that fibroids are the source of your symptoms and develop a personalized treatment plan.
An exam and ultrasound confirms the existence of fibroids. At Gynecology and Obstetrics Medical Group, we offer several different fibroid treatments, including minimally invasive surgical options that can eliminate severe uterine fibroids.
If your period is abnormal due to fibroids, call us at 562-247-3038 or use our online appointment request form to explore your potential treatment options.