How Do I Know If I Have Fibroids? Top 6 Signs to Recognize the Condition

Are you experiencing symptoms like heavy menstrual bleeding, bloating, or pelvic pain? 

These could be signs of fibroids, which are non-cancerous growths in the uterus. They can vary greatly in size, number, and location within the uterine wall.

Recognizing the signs and symptoms associated with fibroids is crucial for early detection and management. 

In this article, we’ll explore common indicators that may suggest the presence of fibroids, along with the importance of undergoing diagnosis to confirm their presence.  

Are you interested to find out how I know if I have fibroids? Keep reading to learn more.

How do I know I have fibroids

Recognizing if you have fibroids involves being aware of your body and paying attention to any potential symptoms that may indicate their presence. 

These symptoms can differ widely among individuals but commonly include the following:

Heavy menstrual bleeding

Experiencing abnormally heavy menstrual bleeding, often accompanied by the need to change pads or tampons frequently, is a common sign of fibroids. 

Some women may pass large blood clots during their periods.

To reduce symptoms like painful or heavy periods, a doctor may prescribe hormonal birth control. 

It can be an IUD, birth control pills, or injected Progestogen. 

Pelvic pain or abdominal pressure

Pelvic pain refers to the discomfort felt in the lower abdomen, specifically in the pelvic area, which includes organs such as the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder, and rectum. 

Persistent pelvic pain or pressure, especially localized in the lower abdomen, may indicate the presence of fibroids. 

This pain may vary in intensity and may worsen during menstruation or sexual intercourse.

Your doctor may prescribe Brufen 400mg (Ibuprofen) and Naprosyn 500 + (Naproxen) to relieve pain.

Menstrual irregularities

Fibroids can cause changes in menstrual patterns, including longer or irregular periods. 

Some women may also experience spotting or bleeding between periods.

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Constipation or difficulty emptying the bladder

Large fibroids can exert pressure on the rectum or bladder.

This may result in symptoms such as constipation or difficulty fully emptying the bladder.

Abdominal enlargement or swelling

Abdominal enlargement or swelling is another potential symptom of fibroids.

As fibroids get bigger, they can make your belly grow larger, causing a visible increase in your abdominal size. 

This can make your stomach look bigger than usual and can sometimes be mistaken for weight gain or pregnancy. 

Also read: Learn about the foods that can help shrink these fibroids with our guide, 7 Foods For Shrinking Fibroids Effectively.

Frequent urination

Fibroids pressing on the bladder can create a sensation of pressure in the pelvic region, leading to an increased frequency of urination. 

This persistent urge to urinate, even when the bladder is not full, can indicate the presence of fibroids.

Diagnosing is vital

Diagnosing to confirm fibroids is crucial for timely treatment and preventing complications. 

If you experience any of the above symptoms persistently or notice changes in your menstrual cycle or abdominal size, it’s essential to consult a doctor.

Even if you’re not feeling any symptoms, it’s still important to get regular checkups. 

Sometimes, fibroids don’t cause any signs, but a medical checkup can detect them early.  

Diagnosing fibroids ensures proper management of your health, including monitoring whether they are shrinking or growing.

Your doctor will begin reviewing your medical history, including any symptoms you’re experiencing and factors such as your menstrual cycle and family history of fibroids

A pelvic examination is then done to physically examine your pelvic area and assess the size, shape, and consistency of your uterus.

Imaging tests including ultrasound, may be recommended to visualize the inner of the uterus and confirm the presence of fibroids. 

In some cases, additional tests such as biopsy may be performed for further evaluation or to rule out other conditions that may resemble fibroid symptoms.

Conclusion

Finding if you have fibroids involves paying attention to possible symptoms and seeking medical evaluation for confirmation.

Symptoms like heavy menstrual bleeding, frequent urination, and abdominal enlargement may indicate the presence of fibroids. 

Regular checkups are essential, as fibroids can also be present without symptoms. 

Diagnosing tests like pelvic examinations and imaging studies like ultrasound can help confirm if you have fibroids or some other problems.

Remember, early detection is key to addressing fibroids effectively and preventing complications in the future.

Frequently Asked Questions

• nichd.nih.gov