What to Know About Uterine Fibroid Pain — and How to Find Relief

Uterine fibroid are noncancerous growths that develop in the uterus and can cause pain or discomfort. Symptoms of fibroid pain can include pelvic pain or pressure, heavy or prolonged menstrual periods, and pain during intercourse. Treatment options for fibroid pain include medications to manage symptoms, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or birth control pills, and procedures to remove the fibroid, such as a hysteroscopic resection or a hysteroscopic myomectomy. In some cases, a hysterectomy may be recommended. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best treatment plan for you.
What Are Uterine Fibroid?
Uterine fibroid, also known as leiomyomas or myomas, are noncancerous growths that develop in the uterus. They are made up of smooth muscle and fibrous tissue and can vary in size from very small to large, weighing several pounds. Fibroid can grow within the uterus lining (submucosal), on the outside of the uterus (subserosal), or within the muscle of the uterus (intramural). Some women may have fibroid that is not causing any symptoms, while others may experience symptoms such as pelvic pain or pressure, heavy or prolonged menstrual periods, and pain during intercourse.
Fibroid is common, occurring in about 20-40% of women of reproductive age. They are more common in African American women and in women who have never given birth. The cause of fibroid is not well understood, but hormonal changes and genetics may play a role.
Common Symptoms of Uterine Fibroid
Uterine fibroid can cause a variety of symptoms, depending on their size, location and number. Common symptoms of fibroid include:
    Heavy or prolonged menstrual period: Fibroids can cause heavy bleeding during menstruation, which can lead to anemia.
    Pelvic pain or pressure: Fibroid can press on nearby organs and cause discomfort, pain, or pressure.
    Frequent urination: If a fibroid is located near the bladder, it can cause a feeling of pressure, leading to frequent urination.
    Constipation: If a fibroid is located near the rectum, it can cause constipation.
    Pain during intercourse: Fibroid can cause pain or discomfort during intercourse.
    Low back pain: Fibroid can cause low back pain or pressure.
    Infertility or miscarriage: Fibroid can cause problems with fertility or increase the risk of miscarriage.
It's important to note that some women with fibroid may not experience any symptoms at all.
Why Uterine Fibroid Cause Painful Periods
Uterine fibroid can cause painful periods because they can cause heavy bleeding during menstruation. Fibroid can also cause cramping, which can make periods more uncomfortable. The heavy bleeding caused by fibroid can lead to anemia, which can cause fatigue, weakness, and lightheadedness.
Fibroid can also cause pain and discomfort due to its location and size. For example, if a fibroid is located near the bladder, it can cause pressure and frequent urination. If a fibroid is located near the rectum, it can cause constipation. If a fibroid is located in the uterus, it can cause pain or pressure in the pelvic area.
Fibroid can also cause pain during intercourse, which is caused by the pressure of the fibroid on nearby organs and the uterus.
It's important to note that not all women with fibroid will experience painful periods or other symptoms. Some fibroid are small and do not cause any symptoms.
Treatment Options for Uterine Fibroid Pain
Treatment options for uterine fibroid pain will depend on the severity of symptoms, the size and location of the fibroid, and the patient's preferences and overall health.
Some possible treatment options for fibroid pain include:
    Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be used to relieve pain and cramping during menstruation. Hormonal medications, such as birth control pills, can be used to reduce heavy bleeding and regulate menstrual cycles.
    Minimally invasive procedures: Hysteroscopic resection or hysteroscopic myomectomy, which removes the fibroid through a thin tube inserted through the cervix, can be an option for women with small or few fibroid.
    Surgery: A myomectomy, which removes the fibroid while preserving the uterus, can be an option for women who wish to become pregnant in the future. A hysterectomy, which removes the uterus, can be recommended for women who have severe symptoms or have completed their families.
    Pain management: Women may benefit from physical therapy and other non-invasive pain management techniques such as hot and cold compresses, acupuncture, and massage.
It is important to consult with a healthcare provider, such as a gynecologist, to determine the best treatment plan for you.