Fibroids and Periods: A Complete Knowledge With Treatment Measures
Uterine fibroids, also recognized as Leimyomas, are benign, non-cancerous tumors in the walls of the uterus, i.e., the womb.
These fibroids can cause a range of symptoms, and changes in regular periods are one of them.
Menstrual irregularities are recognized to affect the daily life of a woman and make it difficult for her to predict periods.
Therefore, learning about how fibroids affect periods and what other symptoms can a woman experience along with it is necessary to take crucial treatment
This comprehensive article elaborates on the association between fibroids and periods to better understand the problems and take treatment to relieve symptoms.
Periods with fibroids vs normal periods
The comparative table below shows the differences between regular periods and irregular periods with fibroids:
| Aspects | Normal periods | Periods with fibroids |
|---|---|---|
| Length of periods | Normal length | Prolonged periods |
| Spotting | Regular spotting or due to other medical problems | Fibroid spotting between periods is present |
| Period pattern | Usual bleeding pattern | Heavy menstrual bleeding |
| Cramps and pain | Mild to moderate | Fibroid cramps are painful |
| Complications | No complications | Infertility |
| Treatments | No treatment | Medications, surgical treatments |
Fibroids and long periods
Fibroids can cause prolonged periods in women that may sometimes exceed seven days or longer.
It is important to consider that these menstrual irregularities are abnormal and require prompt medical diagnosis.
Fibroids and bleeding between periods
In some cases, fibroids can cause bleeding between periods, also called spotting.
Fibroids can borrow blood from the uterus or other surrounding organs and may develop their own blood supply. It may lead to spotting in between the periods.
Also Read: To learn about the difference between menstrual bleeding and spotting, read “Understanding Vaginal Bleeding: Spotting vs Periods.”
Do fibroids cause heavy periods
Yes, fibroids cause heavy periods or Menorrhagia in women of reproductive age.
Heavy menstrual bleeding can be understood as a loss of excessive menstrual blood, which can interfere with not only physical but also emotional quality of life.
As per a 2022 report, nearly 30% of women with fibroids experience heavy menstrual bleeding.
More than half of women with fibroids accompanied by heavy periods experienced symptoms such as bleeding, pelvic pain, and infertility.
Various medical conditions can cause heavy menstrual bleeding, including Endometriosis, ovulatory disorders, endometrial polyps, and endometrial hyperplasia.
However, one of the most common underlying causes of heavy menstrual bleeding is uterine fibroids.
Further, there is also an association between fibroids and heavy periods with blood clots.
Can fibroids cause late periods
Yes, fibroids may also lead to late periods in some women. This may occur due to hormonal disruptions associated with fibroids.
The late periods may make it difficult for a woman to predict her periods and other important menstrual phases, such as ovulation for fertile days.
Can fibroids cause a missed period
Fibroids and periods are often recognized to affect a woman’s menstrual cycle with unpredictable and inconsistent occurrences of periods.
In some women, fibroids can cause a missed period. Again, this can be associated with hormonal disruptions.
Can fibroids stop periods
Fibroids may aggravate menstrual irregularity with prolonged cycles and changes in the timing of periods.
However, there are no reported cases of that fibroids can stop a woman’s period.
Fibroids and painful periods
Painful periods are one of the most experienced symptoms in women with fibroids.
The location and size of the fibroids can put pressure on the surrounding organs, causing painful sensations and discomfort.
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The treatments for fibroids and periods are as follows:
Medical management
The ways to reduce heavy menstrual bleeding include the following:
- Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
- Intrauterine Devices (IUDs)
- Hormonal contraceptive pills
Surgical management
Uterine Artery Embolization (UAE) can be used to treat women with fibroids with minimally invasive treatment.
It is a reliable treatment method for a woman who desires to preserve their uterus.
Some other surgical methods to treat fibroids in women are:
- Endometrial ablation is done via hysterectomy, where one layer of the endometrium is destroyed surgically to reduce heavy bleeding
- Hysterectomy for surgical fibroid removal or the complete uterus
- Laparotomy is a surgical method also associated with faster recovery after treating fibroids
Conclusion
There is an association between fibroids and periods in women. Fibroids can cause prolonged periods, which may exceed several days, causing discomfort.
In some women, fibroids can cause bleeding between periods, also called spotting, and painful periods affecting the abdominal and pelvic region.
Further, fibroids can elevate the chances of heavy menstrual bleeding in women, affecting their physical, social, and emotional lives.
Fibroids can also lead to late or missed periods due to inconsistent period patterns. However, the chances of stopping periods are unlikely.
Fortunately, the painful symptoms of fibroids and periods are manageable with medications and non-invasive and surgical treatment methods.
Women with fibroids can consult a healthcare practitioner and seek medical attention for faster recovery and alleviating symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do fibroids affect periods?
Fibroids may affect periods, causing prolonged periods with heavy bleeding. It can also cause late or missed periods due to hormonal changes. Fibroids can also lead to painful periods depending on the size of the fibroids. Women with fibroids can consult a healthcare practitioner and seek treatments.
How can I control my period with fibroids?
You can control periods with fibroids by seeking medical treatment. Depending on the fibroids’ size, location, and severity, the doctor can recommend the treatment method. Fibroids and periods can be treated with medications and non-invasive surgical methods.
Can fibroids cause painful periods?
Yes, many women experience painful periods with fibroids. The painful sensation is caused when fibroids put pressure on the surrounding tissue, elevating painful sensations. The pain is experienced in the lower abdominal and pelvic regions. Consult a healthcare practitioner and seek prompt medical attention.
Can a fibroid block your period?
No, though fibroid can cause heavy, painful, and prolonged periods, the chances of stopping your periods are highly unlikely. Consult a healthcare practitioner for medical diagnosis and prompt treatments.
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