Problems Fibroids Cause
Not gonna lie, living with fibroids can be pretty terrible. I’m guessing you’re at this website because you already know this. 🫠 The pain, bloating, abdominal pressure, heavy periods, lower back pain, constipation, frequent urination, and more. It’s A LOT.
Now that you’re up to speed on fibroid basics, the overview of how fibroids grow and change over time, and what your fibroid treatment options are, let’s talk about the problems fibroids cause. If you have fibroids and you’re dealing with the following problems, I want you to know that it’s not just in your head.
Fibroids can wreak havoc on your life. Once you understand the problems that fibroids cause, learn more about how to make things better while living with fibroids.
Commonly asked questions about the problems fibroids cause:
Can fibroids cause bleeding and heavy periods?
Oh, honey. Absolutely. Yes, fibroids can cause heavy and prolonged periods. This happens when fibroids grow inside the uterine lining (submucosal fibroids) or affect the way the uterus contracts. Normally, the uterus contracts to stop menstrual bleeding, but fibroids can interfere with this process, leading to longer, heavier periods.
Some people experience periods that last more than 7 days, needing to change pads or tampons every 1-2 hours. Others may pass large blood clots or have spotting between periods.
Can fibroids cause anemia?
Unfortunately, yes. Heavy menstrual bleeding from fibroids can lead to iron-deficiency anemia. When you lose too much blood during periods, your body struggles to produce enough new red blood cells. This can cause fatigue, dizziness, weakness, shortness of breath, and headaches.
If you’re constantly tired, looking pale, or feeling lightheaded, fibroid-related anemia might be the culprit.
The good news is that boosting your iron intake through food (leafy greens, beans, red meat) or supplements can help. Just be careful not to load up on too much red meat—even though it has high iron, it’s one of the things that can also lead to fibroid growth.
Treating the fibroids themselves—through medications, non-invasive procedures, or surgery—can also improve anemia since having your fibroids treated means you’ll be bleeding less, which will improve your anemia over time.
Can fibroids affect digestion or cause constipation?
Yep, you bet. Fibroids can affect digestion, even though they’re not a part of your digestive system. That’s because large fibroids can press against the intestines or rectum. And if your uterus is extra big from fibroids, that’s pressing on nearby organs too.
This pressure can slow down digestion, leading to bloating, constipation, and discomfort after eating. Some people feel full quickly or notice their stomach looks swollen, even if they haven't eaten much.
Subserosal fibroids are especially problematic in this area. Since they grow on the outer side of the uterus, they can press against the rectum and make it harder to pass stool. This can lead to chronic constipation, bloating, and discomfort. Some people also experience a constant feeling of incomplete bowel movements due to the pressure.
If fibroids are affecting your digestion, small lifestyle changes can help. Eating fiber-rich foods, drinking plenty of water, and staying active can keep things moving through the digestive and elimination pipes.
If constipation or bloating persists, tell your doctor about it, and make note of it in your fibroid symptom tracker. Learn more about foods that improve constipation from fibroids.
Can fibroids cause back pain?
Yes, fibroids can cause lower back pain, especially if they are large or located near the spine. When fibroids press on nerves in the lower back, it can create a dull ache or even radiating pain that feels similar to sciatica.
Some people notice back pain that worsens during their period, while others feel discomfort all the time. The pain can range from mild to severe, making it uncomfortable to sit, stand, or exercise for long periods.
Learn more about natural options for treating back pain caused by fibroids. Options include physical therapy, gentle stretching, heat therapy, and low-impact exercises like yoga or swimming can also help relieve pressure on the spine.
Can fibroids cause bloating or weight gain?
Are you seeing a pattern here? ;) Lots of yesses on this page, unfortunately. And yep, fibroids can cause bloating and a swollen abdomen, especially when they grow large. Doctors refer to this as “bulk symptoms.” Some fibroids grow to the size of a grapefruit or even a watermelon, making the stomach look rounder or distended.
While fibroids themselves don’t cause true weight gain, they can make you feel bulky, heavy, and uncomfortable. Fibroids may also trigger fluid retention and hormonal changes that contribute to bloating. If you feel like your belly is getting bigger but your eating habits haven’t changed, fibroids might be the reason.
If bulk and bloating are persistent, drinking plenty of water, reducing processed foods, and exercising can help with fluid retention. I know it sounds crazy to drink a bunch of water when you already feel bloated and your fibroids might be pressing on your bladder, making you constantly feel like you have to pee (ask me how I know 😩), but it’s still important to stay hydrated.
If your fibroids are large and negatively affecting your quality of life, getting your fibroids treated can help in more ways than one. It’ll eliminate the bloated bulky feeling, and improve the other symptoms you’re reading about on this page.
Can fibroids cause pain during sex?
Sadly, yes. Fibroids can make sex painful, especially if they grow near the cervix or inside the uterine lining.
The pressure from fibroids can lead to deep pelvic pain, cramping, or discomfort during penetration. Some people also experience bleeding after sex, which can be a sign that fibroids are irritating the uterine tissue.
Painful sex due to fibroids can vary depending on the size, position, and location of the fibroids (what did you think I was gonna say? ;) … although the size and position of your partner’s anatomy can also affect your comfort or discomfort during sex.
If sex is becoming uncomfortable, trying different sexual positions, using lubrication, or taking over-the-counter pain relief beforehand might help. But if the pain is persistent, a doctor can evaluate whether treatment—like medications or fibroid removal—can help improve comfort.
Can fibroids cause abnormal pap smears?
Finally, I get to say No. 😮💨 … No, fibroids do not directly cause an abnormal Pap smear. Phew. But keep reading to understand this fully…
A Pap smear is used to detect cell changes on your cervix, while fibroids develop inside or on the uterus. But there’s a caveat here — fibroids growing near the cervix might obstruct the exam or cause minor bleeding, which could lead to an unclear or abnormal Pap smear result.
Other gynecological issues, like HPV, infections, or inflammation, are more common causes of abnormal Pap smears. If your Pap test comes back abnormal, your doctor may recommend a repeat test, HPV screening, or a colposcopy to check for any underlying issues.
But no, fibroids don’t directly affect Pap smear results.
Can fibroids cause infertility or pregnancy complications?
It depends. In some cases, fibroids can affect fertility and pregnancy. Whether they cause problems depends on size, location, and number of the fibroids.
How fibroids can affect fertility:
Submucosal fibroids (inside the uterus) may block implantation of an embryo or otherwise disrupt the embryo’s ability to attach to the uterine lining.
Fibroids near the fallopian tubes may interfere with the egg’s movement through the fallopian tube and into the uterus, which can make conception harder.
Pregnancy complications caused by fibroids:
Because estrogen levels are high during pregnancy, this can lead fibroids to grow rapidly. The larger fibroid(s) can cause pain or pressure.
Higher risk of miscarriage if fibroids distort the uterine cavity.
Preterm labor or difficulty with vaginal delivery if fibroids block the birth canal.
C-section may be needed if fibroids prevent a safe vaginal birth.
Many people with fibroids still conceive and have healthy pregnancies, but if fertility is a concern, a doctor may suggest fibroid removal (myomectomy) or other fibroid treatments before conception to improve pregnancy outcomes. If you’re trying to conceive, discussing your fibroids with a fertility specialist can help you explore your options.