Fibroids Bleeding: Raising Concerns and Managing Tips
Uterine fibroids, also recognized as Leimyomas, are benign, non-cancerous tumors in the walls of the uterus, i.e., the womb.
Fibroids are clinically prevalent among 25% of women of reproductive age.
This condition can cause symptoms, including pain in the lower abdomen and heavy bleeding during periods.
Therefore, this comprehensive article aims to shed light on fibroid bleeding during numerous phases of a woman’s life and manage them with treatment and tips.
Relation between fibroids and bleeding
Fibroids are one of the most common benign tumors in women of reproductive age globally.
They are associated with heavy menstrual bleeding, leading to Anemia, pain in the pelvis, infertility, and several other symptoms.
Some mechanotransduction can be the main cause of these bleeding dysfunctions.
These are biological phenomena where mechanical force applied to a cell translates into chemical signals and gives adaptive responses.
They cause two changes:
- Decreased uterine wall contractibility
- Increased rigidity of the myometrium
The factors can affect the functioning of the uterus, such as menstrual bleeding, receptivity, and implantation.
Do fibroids cause heavy bleeding during periods
Yes, fibroids can cause heavy bleeding during periods in some women.
As per a 2022 report, nearly 30% of women with fibroids experience heavy menstrual bleeding.
More than half of these women with fibroids experience symptoms such as bleeding, pelvic pain, and infertility.
There is also an association between fibroids and heavy periods with blood clots.
Also, the presence of uterine fibroids in the uterine cavity can interfere with the normal contractions of the muscles, leading to heavy fibroid periods.
Fibroids bleeding at different times
Fibroids can cause bleeding in different phases and affect the quality of life by causing discomfort.
A woman with fibroids can experience heavy bleeding in the following cases:
Between periods
Fibroids can cause bleeding between periods, also called spotting, in some women.
The exact cause of spotting is still unknown and needs extensive research to be conducted.
However, many research claims that 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.”
After intercourse
Some women often complain about experiencing bleeding during or right after sexual intercourse or vaginal penetration.
As per the Mayo Clinic, bleeding during sex is caused due to the development of fibroids in the walls of the uterus.
During pregnancy
Fibroid bleeding during pregnancy can be seen in some women.
The location of fibroids mostly determines fibroids’ bleeding during early pregnancy.
It is significantly higher, up to 60%, if the placenta implants close to it.
However, the chances are relatively lower, only 9%, if the placenta implantation holds no close contact with the fibroid.
After Menopause
There are some instances when women with a history of fibroids may experience bleeding even after Menopause.
These symptoms are more prevalent in women taking Hormone Replacement Therapy, or HRT for Menopause, to cope with hormonal changes.
Therefore, a woman after Menopause should not neglect the symptoms and consult a healthcare practitioner for medical guidance.
After bowel movement
Fibroids do not directly cause rectal bleeding or bleeding during bowels.
However, they can cause constipation and may elevate the chances of internal or external Hemorrhoids.
Fibroids with relatively bigger sizes in the uterus can put pressure on the colon and may cause discomfort.
Further, it can elevate the risk of constipation, bloating, and bleeding during bowel movements.
Fibroids bleeding treatment
The treatments for fibroid bleeding are as follows:
Medical management
The effective ways include the following:
- Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) for women with fibroids
- Intrauterine Devices (IUDs) reduce heavy bleeding in women with fibroids
- Hormonal contraceptive pills can also reduce heavy bleeding in women
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Surgical management
Some surgeries can also be an option if a woman is experiencing excessive bleeding with fibroids, which hinders her life.
Some surgical methods to treat fibroids in women are:
- Uterine Artery Embolization (UAE) can be used to treat women with fibroids with minimally invasive treatment for a woman who desires to preserve their uterus
- Endometrial ablation is done via hysterectomy, where one layer of the endometrium is destroyed surgically to reduce heavy bleeding
- Hysterectomy for surgical fibroid removal of the female uterus
- Laparotomy is also associated with faster recovery after treating fibroids
Conclusion
Fibroids bleeding is one of the main symptoms of fibroids affecting a woman’s life.
They can cause heavy bleeding during periods and inconsistent periods, making them more unpredictable.
Fibroids bleeding can also cause bleeding between periods, after sexual intercourse, during pregnancy, and after Menopause.
Further, fibroids can also cause bleeding in some women during bowel movements due to pressure on the colon or constipation.
Fortunately, bleeding with fibroids can be treated with medications, IUDs, hormonal pills, and non-invasive and surgical methods.
Therefore, it is crucial to consult a healthcare practitioner and seek a proper diagnosis and effective treatment for a faster recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens when fibroids bleed?
Fibroids are associated with heavy bleeding during periods, in between periods, after sexual intercourse, during pregnancy, after Menopause, and during bowel movements. Excessive bleeding during periods can cause Anemia, pain in the pelvis, and infertility. Consult a healthcare practitioner and seek medical treatment.
What color is fibroid bleeding?
The color of the fibroid bleeding may vary from person to person. It can range from light to dark brown, denoting an older blood. Further, the blood discharge may appear pink in some women. However, consult a healthcare practitioner if you observe changes in period color or blood from the rectum.
What is the best treatment for bleeding fibroids?
The best treatment for bleeding fibroids includes medications, such as Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs. Your doctor may also prescribe IUDs to control heavy menstrual bleeding or surgical treatments to remove fibroids.
What triggers fibroids to bleed?
The exact cause of fibroid bleeding is not known. However, it can be caused by hormonal changes or pressure exerted by fibroids on the surrounding organs. In women after Menopause, it can be elevated due to hormonal therapy.
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