Uterine fibroids are common non-cancerous growths that develop in or on the uterus. They can significantly influence a person’s period, leading to various menstrual cycle alterations.
Understanding Uterine Fibroids
Uterine fibroids are growths composed of muscle and connective tissue that form in or on the uterus. They are common non-cancerous growths found in females. Fibroids can vary in size, ranging from as small as a seed to as large as a melon. They are classified based on their location: intramural (within the muscular wall), submucosal (beneath the uterine lining, extending into the cavity), and subserosal (on the outer surface). Many women have fibroids without symptoms, often discovered incidentally during medical examinations.
How Fibroids Impact Menstrual Cycles
Uterine fibroids can lead to various changes in menstrual cycles, affecting duration, flow, and discomfort. One common impact is heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia), which may involve soaking through sanitary products quickly or passing large blood clots. Periods can also become prolonged, lasting longer than the typical seven days. Fibroids can also contribute to painful periods (dysmenorrhea), often manifesting as cramping or pressure in the pelvic area. Irregular menstrual cycles, with unpredictable timing, and spotting or bleeding between periods are also possible.
Why Fibroids Cause Period Changes
The size and location of fibroids play a significant role in how they affect menstrual bleeding. Larger fibroids or those situated within the uterine cavity, particularly submucosal fibroids, can directly influence the uterine lining. These growths can distort the uterine cavity, increasing the surface area of the uterine lining, which leads to more blood loss during menstruation. Fibroids can also stimulate the growth of new blood vessels within the uterus, contributing to a heavier menstrual flow. Pressure exerted by fibroids on the uterine lining can interfere with its normal shedding and clotting processes. This disruption can result in prolonged bleeding and difficulty in the uterus effectively contracting to stop the flow. Hormonal influences, particularly fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone, are also believed to play a role in fibroid growth and their impact on the menstrual cycle.
Other Symptoms and When to Seek Medical Advice
Beyond changes to menstrual cycles, uterine fibroids can cause a range of other symptoms due to their size and location. These may include persistent pelvic pain or pressure, which can be distinct from menstrual cramps. Fibroids can also press on nearby organs, leading to frequent urination, difficulty emptying the bladder, or constipation. Some individuals may experience backache or leg pain. Pain during sexual intercourse can also be a symptom associated with fibroids. Due to heavy or prolonged bleeding, individuals with fibroids may develop anemia, characterized by fatigue and shortness of breath. It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional if you experience persistent or severe changes in your menstrual cycle, new or worsening pelvic pain, or symptoms such as extreme fatigue that might indicate anemia.