Symptoms of uterine fibroid tumors, Uterine fibroid main symptoms.

Symptoms of uterine fibroid tumors

Uterine fibroids, also called leiomyomas, are benign tumors that originate in the smooth muscle (myometrium) of the uterus. Fibroids can grow inside the cavity of the uterus (submucosal) in the muscle wall (intramural), or the outer lining of the uterus (subserosal). Pedunculated fibroids are on the outside of the uterus, which is attributed by a stalk, according to the Hampton Roads Center for Fibroid Embolization.

Bleeding

Fibroids can cause vaginal bleeding or spotting between periods (metorrhagia). Fibroids can cause heavy menstrual periods (menorrhagia), according to the Mayo Clinic. Periods may be prolonged, lasting more than seven days, and clots can happen. Bleeding may be strong enough to cause anemia, or low red blood cell count.

Pain

Large fibroids can cause pain in several areas. The pain caused by compression of the nerve can be felt in the pelvis or back or legs, according to the Hampton Roads Center fibroid embolization. Cramps may also occur during heavy periods. Pain during intercourse is common.

Severe pain can be caused when a fibroid undergoes degeneration, which occurs when the fibroid grows its blood supply and begins to die. The pain usually goes away after a few weeks, according to the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF).

Red or fleshy Degeneration is a painful condition that can occur during pregnancy, but develops when there is bleeding in the fibroid.

Pedunculated fibroid may twist, causing pain, fever or nausea, according to the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG).

Sterility

Fibroids can interfere with embryo implantation. According to the Hampton Roads Center for Fibroid Embolization of 2-3 percent of infertility cases can be caused by fibroids. Fibroids that grow in the cervix can block the entry of sperm. Women with fibroids may also suffer miscarriages or premature delivery. The presence of large or larger fibroids are more likely to have problems during pregnancy, according to Mayo Clinic. The fetus can also be forced into an abnormal position in the uterus due to fibroids, requiring cesarean section.

Other symptoms

Fibroids putting pressure on the bladder can cause frequent urination, difficulty or pain. If the fibroids are pressing on the bowel, you may experience constipation. Bloating and hemorrhoids can also be caused by fibroids, according to UCSF. Fibroids can enlarge the uterus enough to distend the abdomen to the point where there is a woman pregnant.