Uterine fibroids are capable of causing diarrhea due to their size and location in your uterus which can interfere with your digestive tract. Some Gastrointestinal symptoms, such as diarrhea, are less commonly discussed but can be a concern for some women with fibroids.
How Fibroids Can Lead to Diarrhea
- Pressure on the Bowel:
- Location of Fibroids: Fibroids located on the posterior side of the uterus (towards the back) can press against the rectum and intestines. This pressure can affect bowel movements and lead to symptoms such as diarrhea or constipation.
- Large Fibroids: Larger fibroids can exert more pressure on the bowels, disrupting normal digestive processes.
- Pelvic Congestion and Blood Flow:
- Venous Congestion: Fibroids can cause congestion in the pelvic veins, leading to increased pressure in the pelvic area. This can affect the normal function of the bowel and result in diarrhea.
- Hormonal Changes:
- Hormonal Influence: Fibroids can cause hormonal imbalances, particularly an increase in estrogen levels. Hormones play a significant role in regulating the digestive system, and fluctuations can sometimes lead to gastrointestinal symptoms, including diarrhea.
Symptoms to Watch For
In addition to diarrhea, fibroids can cause a range of other symptoms, which might help identify them as the underlying issue:
- Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding.
- Pelvic pain or pressure.
- Frequent urination or difficulty emptying the bladder.
- Constipation or a sensation of incomplete bowel movements.
- Lower back pain.
- Pain during intercourse.
When to See a Doctor
If you experience persistent or severe diarrhea, especially if accompanied by other symptoms of fibroids, it’s important to seek medical advice. Symptoms to watch for include:
- Diarrhea lasting more than a few days.
- Severe abdominal or pelvic pain.
- Significant changes in menstrual cycles.
- Blood in the stool.
- Unexplained weight loss or fatigue.
Diagnosis and Treatment
To determine if fibroids are causing your gastrointestinal symptoms, your doctor may recommend:
- Pelvic Exam: To check for an enlarged uterus or other abnormalities.
- Imaging Tests: Ultrasound, MRI, or CT scans can help visualize fibroids and assess their size and location.
- Endoscopy or Colonoscopy: If gastrointestinal symptoms are significant, these procedures might be performed to rule out other causes.
Treatment options depend on the severity of symptoms, the size and location of the fibroids, and your overall health and reproductive plans
Contact USA Fibroid Centers for a Consultation about your Symptom
While uterine fibroids are not a common cause of diarrhea, they can exert pressure on the bowels and disrupt normal digestive processes, potentially leading to gastrointestinal symptoms. If you are experiencing diarrhea along with other symptoms of fibroids, our doctors are here for you.
