Many people wonder if they can detect uterine fibroids on their own, especially when they notice new or unusual symptoms. It’s natural to consider an at-home self-exam, similar to a breast self-exam. However, because fibroids form deep within the pelvis, they are difficult to detect without a professional medical evaluation.
This blog explores why a fibroid self-exam isn’t possible, what symptoms you should watch for, and when to see a specialist for a proper diagnosis. While self-awareness is valuable, accurate diagnosis and treatment rely on professional imaging and medical expertise.
Understanding Fibroids: Why a Self-Exam Isn’t Possible
Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths that develop in or on the uterus. They are classified by their location.
- Submucosal fibroids: Grow inside the uterine lining.
- Intramural fibroids: Develop within the muscular uterine wall.
- Subserosal fibroids: Form on the outer surface of the uterus.
The uterus sits deep within the pelvis, making it impossible to perform a manual self-exam for fibroids like you can with breast tissue. Smaller fibroids are rarely detectable by touch, and even larger growths are often hard to identify without imaging tests.
Why Fibroids Might Cause You to Feel Something Unusual
Although most fibroids aren’t detectable at home, larger uterine fibroid growths can sometimes cause sensations that feel different from usual body changes.
Some people may experience:
- A feeling of fullness or mass in the lower abdomen
- Noticeable bloating or heaviness
- Pelvic pressure when lying down or bending forward
These symptoms can feel similar to digestive issues or weight changes, making them unreliable indicators of fibroid self-detection. Sensations that feel unusual do not confirm the presence of fibroids; only medical imaging can accurately detect uterine fibroids.
How to Monitor Fibroids at Home
The most effective way to perform a self-help test for fibroids at home is to pay attention to any changes in your body. Three questions you should ask yourself include:
- Are my periods heavier or longer than usual?
- Do I notice pelvic pressure that wasn’t there before?
- Am I experiencing new or worsening pain during menstruation or intercourse?
If you notice sudden or persistent changes in your cycle, it means it’s time for you to seek the care of a fibroid specialist. You can also use a symptom checker to see if your symptoms align with those of fibroids.
When to See a Doctor for Suspected Fibroids
Since there is no way to check for uterine fibroids at home, the best way to figure out if you have fibroids is to seek professional medical attention. It’s important to see a doctor if you notice any of these more serious signs:
- A pelvic mass or abdominal bulge
- Heavy, disruptive menstrual cycles
- Ongoing pelvic discomfort or pressure
- Difficulty with urination or bowel movements
These signs don’t always mean fibroids are present, but they do require professional evaluation to rule out fibroids or other conditions. The fibroid specialists at USA Fibroid Centers can perform or recommend diagnostic exams to confirm the presence of fibroids.
Diagnostic Exams for Fibroids
During your visit, a specialist will perform a diagnostic exam. These may include:
- Ultrasound: The first-line test, performed either transabdominally (over the stomach) or transvaginally (inside the vagina). Ultrasounds are a safe and effective method for identifying the size and location of fibroids.
- MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Used for more detailed imaging, especially when deciding on treatments like surgery or a minimally invasive procedure.
- Physical Exam: While your doctor may feel for an enlarged uterus during a pelvic exam, this is not enough to confirm fibroids without imaging.
After the tests, a fibroid specialist will review the results and explain potential treatment options with you.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
The Role of a Fibroid Specialist
While any doctor can provide care, a fibroid specialist offers targeted expertise in diagnosing and managing fibroids. A fibroid specialist can differentiate fibroids from similar conditions, including:
- Ovarian cysts: Fluid-filled sacs that form on the ovaries.
- Adenomyosis: A condition where endometrial tissue grows into the muscular wall of the uterus, often causing pain and heavy bleeding.
- Endometriosis: A disorder where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, often leading to chronic pain or discomfort.
Fibroid specialists also help guide management and treatment decisions, including whether medication or a minimally invasive procedure may be the most appropriate option based on individual needs.
Your Symptoms Deserve an Expert Diagnosis
Since they are internal growths, fibroids require imaging for proper diagnosis. While it’s not possible to test for fibroids at home, tracking symptoms and staying attuned to any body changes can help determine when a consultation with a fibroid specialist is needed.
If you suspect you have fibroids, our specialists at USA Fibroid Centers offer expert evaluations and minimally invasive solutions, such as uterine fibroid embolization (UFE), tailored to your needs. UFE is the gold standard of minimally invasive fibroid treatments for patients seeking a non-surgical procedure, with little recovery time.
Don’t wait for your symptoms to get worse. Get the clarity you need through a proper diagnosis by scheduling a consultation with a fibroid specialist.
