Q: Could fibroids be the reason for my heavy periods and pelvic pain?
A: Yes, they could. Fibroids are very common, noncancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus. Some women have fibroids and never experience any symptoms, while others can have significant problems that affect their everyday lives.
Heavy or prolonged periods are one of the most common symptoms. Fibroids can also cause pelvic pressure or pain, bloating, a feeling of fullness in the abdomen, or the need to urinate more frequently. And if you’re losing a lot of blood during your periods, you can develop anemia, which may leave you feeling tired or lacking energy.
One thing I tell my patients is that you don’t have to simply accept these symptoms as a normal part of getting older or having heavy periods. If your symptoms are interfering with your work, activities, sleep or quality of life, it’s worth finding out what’s causing them.
An ultrasound or other imaging can usually help determine whether fibroids are present and whether they are likely responsible for your symptoms.
The good news is that there are several ways to treat symptomatic fibroids. The right approach depends on factors such as the size and location of the fibroids, your symptoms, your overall health and your personal goals.
One option that many women may not know about is uterine fibroid embolization, or UFE. It is a minimally invasive procedure that reduces the blood supply to the fibroids, causing them to gradually shrink. It does not require removing the uterus, and recovery is typically shorter than with major surgery.
UFE isn’t the right treatment for every woman, but it can be an effective option for many women who want relief from fibroid symptoms without undergoing a hysterectomy. If heavy periods, pelvic pressure, pain or frequent trips to the bathroom are becoming part of your everyday routine, talk with your doctor. You may have more options than you realize.
Dr. Chris LeSar is a vascular surgeon with Vascular Institute of Chattanooga and is a member of the Chattanooga-Hamilton County Medical Society.