How Uterine Fibroids Can Affect Your Period in Different Ways
Menstruation, for many women, is already a challenging time of the month. But when uterine fibroids enter the picture, it can add a whole new layer of complexity. Uterine fibroids, benign growths in the uterus, can impact your menstrual cycle in various ways, leading to discomfort and disruption. In this article, we'll delve into the world of uterine fibroids and explore how they can affect your period.
What are Uterine Fibroids?
Uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomas or myomas, are non-cancerous growths that develop in the muscular wall of the uterus. They can vary in size, ranging from small, pea-sized nodules to large growths that can distort the shape of the uterus. These growths are made up of muscle and fibrous tissue, and while their exact cause is unknown, factors like hormonal imbalances and genetic predisposition may play a role in their development.
Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids
When it comes to uterine fibroids and their impact on your periods, there are several symptoms to be aware of. Here's a breakdown of some common fibroids period symptoms:
- Heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia)
- Prolonged periods or bleeding between periods
- Severe menstrual cramps
- Pelvic pressure or pain
- Frequent urination or trouble urinating
Ways Uterine Fibroids Can Affect Your Period
While uterine fibroids can manifest in various ways, let's explore five specific ways they can affect your period.
1. Increased Menstrual Bleeding
Uterine fibroids are often associated with heavy menstrual bleeding, a condition known as menorrhagia. These benign growths can distort the uterine cavity, leading to an imbalance in hormone levels and increased blood flow during menstruation. As a result, women with fibroids may experience periods that are significantly heavier than usual, requiring frequent changes of sanitary products. This excessive bleeding can not only be physically uncomfortable but also emotionally distressing, impacting daily activities and quality of life. It's essential for individuals experiencing heavy menstrual bleeding due to fibroids to consult with a healthcare provider to explore treatment options and address any other underlying cause.
2. Irregular Menstrual Cycles
Uterine fibroids can disrupt the normal hormonal regulation of the menstrual cycle. This may lead to irregular periods or bleeding between periods owing to the fibroid. The presence of fibroids within the uterine wall can interfere with the uterus's ability to contract and shed its lining in a regular pattern. As a result, some women may experience unpredictable menstrual cycles, with periods occurring closer together or further apart than usual. Additionally, fibroids can cause spotting or breakthrough bleeding between periods, further complicating menstrual regularity. Monitoring menstrual patterns and discussing any irregularities with a healthcare provider is essential for identifying potential underlying causes, such as uterine fibroids, and determining appropriate management strategies.
3. Severe Menstrual Cramps
Menstrual cramps, medically known as dysmenorrhea, are a common symptom experienced by many women during menstruation. However, for women with uterine fibroids, these cramps can be particularly severe and debilitating. Fibroids can cause the uterus to contract more forcefully during menstruation, leading to intensified cramping sensations. These cramps may radiate to the lower back and thighs, causing significant discomfort and interfering with daily activities. Managing severe menstrual cramps associated with uterine fibroids may require a multimodal approach, including over-the-counter pain medications, heat therapy, and prescription medications prescribed by a healthcare provider.
4. Pelvic Pain
In addition to menstrual cramps, women with uterine fibroids may experience chronic pelvic pain throughout their menstrual cycle. The presence of fibroids within the uterine wall can exert pressure on surrounding pelvic organs, nerves, and tissues, leading to discomfort or pain. This pelvic pain may vary in intensity and location, ranging from dull aches to sharp, stabbing sensations. It may worsen during menstruation when the uterus contracts to expel its lining. Managing pelvic pain associated with uterine fibroids may involve a combination of pain management strategies, lifestyle modifications, and targeted treatments to address the underlying cause of the pain.
5. Anemia
Excessive menstrual bleeding associated with uterine fibroids can lead to iron deficiency or anemia, a condition characterised by low levels of red blood cells and insufficient oxygen delivery to tissues. Chronic blood loss during heavy periods can deplete iron stores in the body, resulting in symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, pale skin, and shortness of breath. Women with uterine fibroids and heavy menstrual bleeding are at increased risk of developing anemia, particularly if left untreated. Managing anemia associated with uterine fibroids may involve iron supplementation, dietary changes to increase iron intake, and addressing the underlying cause of heavy menstrual bleeding through medical or surgical interventions. Regular monitoring of iron levels and symptoms of anemia is crucial for maintaining overall health and well-being in women with uterine fibroids.
What is UFE (Uterine Fibroid Embolization)?
Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat uterine fibroids. During UFE, a radiologist inserts a thin tube called a catheter into the blood vessels that supply the fibroids with blood. Small particles are then injected into these blood vessels to block them, cutting off the fibroids' blood supply. This causes the fibroids to shrink over time, alleviating symptoms such as heavy bleeding and pelvic pain.
One potential outcome of UFE is a change in menstrual patterns, including a decrease in menstrual flow or the absence of periods altogether. This occurs because the procedure reduces the size of fibroids, which can lead to less bleeding during menstruation. Some women may experience no period after UFE, particularly if their fibroids were causing significant menstrual irregularities or heavy bleeding prior to the procedure. However, it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider to understand the potential effects of UFE on menstrual health and to address any concerns or questions regarding post-procedure changes in menstrual patterns.
How to Cope with Heavy, Painful, or Abnormal Periods
Fibroids and periods with heavy, painful bleeding go hand-in-hand. Dealing with such heavy, painful, or abnormal periods can be challenging, but there are strategies to help manage the symptoms. Here are some coping mechanisms for reduced period pain :
- Use good quality sanitary pads that are highly absorbent to manage heavy bleeding effectively. Always offers sanitary pads that are thoughtfully designed for ultimate ease, comfort, and protection. Try the Maxi Thick Pads which come designed with an innovative extra-absorbent core. This assures you stay protected for hours at a stretch. The comfortable flexi pillow and dry top sheet offer extra comfort so that you always stay fresh, clean, and comfortable. For those who want to have an added layer of protection, you can rely on Always’ Tampax tampons . Their Tampax Compak tampons are a great option as they come with a smooth, compact applicator for discretion, and a built-in protective skirt to help prevent leakage for up to 8 hours. Moreover, they are available in the different absorbency variants – Lite, Regular, Super and Super Plus - to best suit your flow needs during your period.
- Apply heat to the abdominal area to alleviate menstrual cramps.
- Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation to reduce stress and tension.
- Maintain a healthy diet rich in iron and other nutrients to combat anemia.
- Consider alternative therapies such as acupuncture or yoga to help manage pelvic pain.
When to See a Doctor?
While some degree of discomfort during menstruation is normal, certain symptoms associated with uterine fibroids warrant a visit to your healthcare provider. These include:
- Excessive menstrual bleeding that interferes with daily activities
- Severe pelvic pain that is not relieved by over-the-counter medications
- Signs of anemia such as fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath
- Fibroids causing bleeding between periods or no period after a uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) procedure
Understanding the relationship between uterine fibroids and menstruation is crucial for women's health. By recognising fibroid-associated period symptoms and seeking appropriate medical care, you can take proactive steps to manage your menstrual health effectively. Remember, heavy bleeding, severe pelvic pain, and other abnormal menstrual symptoms should never be ignored, and consulting with a healthcare professional is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Disclaimer
Please note the date of the last review or update on all articles. No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice, diagnosis or treatment from your doctor or other qualified clinician. Always is committed to ensuring that all of our products meet rigorous safety standards; Always pads prioritize safety , protection and comfort of its consumers.
FAQs