Imagine it’s that time of the month. You’ve got your heating pad ready, your favorite comfort food is on standby, and you’re bracing yourself for the heavy bleeding and cramping made all the more intense by uterine fibroids that await you. Does this sound familiar?
Uterine fibroids, the non-cancerous growths that can develop in your uterus, can transform a menstrual cycle into a real challenge. The heavy flow, the continuous cramping, and the constant fear of leaking onto your clothes can make you feel like you’re losing control.
While exploring treatment with a specialist is the most effective way to address the reason for your symptoms, it is essential to find period products that not only keep you comfortable and secure but also effectively manage the heavy flow associated with fibroids. From menstrual cups and reusable pads to a breakdown of organic vs. non-organic options, we explore the available options. Let’s find out what works for you.
Understanding Your Period with Fibroids
Having fibroids can significantly impact your menstrual cycle, often making it heavier, more painful, and longer. It’s important to understand these changes, symptoms, and how to manage them effectively. Common symptoms aggravated by fibroids include:
- Heavy Menstrual Bleeding (Menorrhagia): This is the most common symptom of fibroids. Heavy bleeding means going through one or more tampons or pads every hour for several consecutive hours, needing to change protection during the night, or passing blood clots the size of a quarter or larger. This excessive blood loss can severely impact daily life, causing anxiety and limiting activities.
- Prolonged Periods: While a typical period lasts 3 to 7 days, fibroids can cause periods that go on for more than 8 days or even for weeks at a time. This can be exhausting and frustrating, making it difficult to feel normal or comfortable.
- Pelvic Pain and Pressure: Fibroids can grow quite large, putting pressure on your pelvic organs. This pressure can manifest as a dull ache or a feeling of heaviness in the lower abdomen, especially during menstruation. The pain can range from mild discomfort to severe, debilitating cramps.
- Anemia due to blood loss: The constant, heavy bleeding from fibroids can lead to a significant drop in red blood cells, causing iron deficiency anemia. Symptoms of anemia include extreme fatigue, weakness, dizziness, and pale skin. This is a serious condition that requires medical attention.
If you’re experiencing symptoms like heavy, prolonged periods or severe pelvic pain, it’s important to talk to a doctor. Persistent heavy bleeding, in particular, should not be ignored. Getting screened for fibroids and consulting a fibroid specialist can help determine if these growths are the root cause of your symptoms and help you find the best treatment options. Check your symptoms to get a better understanding of your symptoms and potential next steps.
Period Products
When you have fibroids, you might experience heavy bleeding. Here are some options to choose from designed to deal with heavy flow while offering comfort.
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Non-Traditional Period Products for Fibroids
Menstrual Cups
Menstrual cups are small, reusable cups made of silicone. These are placed inside your vagina to collect blood. The cups are designed to hold a significant amount of blood, making them ideal for heavy menstrual flow and suitable for wear of up to 12 hours. They may need to be emptied more frequently on particularly heavy days, depending on the brand, size, and cup model. Generally, menstrual cups can hold between 10 and 50 milliliters (mL) of blood.
- Small cups: Typically hold around 15-25 mL.
- Medium cups: Hold around 20-30 mL.
- Large cups: Hold around 30-40 mL or more.
Menstrual Discs
Menstrual discs are flexible, disc-shaped products that sit higher up in your vagina than cups. They are available in both reusable and disposable options. Menstrual discs can be worn for up to 12 hours and can hold the equivalent of around five regular tampons or three super tampons, which is approximately 5 or 6 teaspoons of fluid, depending on the brand. However, they can be messier to remove as compared to cups.
Reusable Cloth Pads
For women with fibroids, reusable cloth pads offer several benefits over disposable pads. The primary advantage is their breathability, as they are typically made from natural, chemical-free fabrics like cotton or bamboo. This can be particularly helpful for those experiencing heavy bleeding associated with fibroids, as it reduces the risk of skin irritation and discomfort that can arise from prolonged use of plastic-based disposable pads. Additionally, many people find cloth pads to be softer and more comfortable providing more relief. They are a cost-effective and eco-friendly long-term solution, and their availability in a wide range of sizes and absorbencies makes them a versatile option for managing varying flow levels.
Organic Pads Vs. Non-Organic Pads
Research suggests that certain chemicals found in some personal care products, including those used for menstrual hygiene, have raised concerns due to their potential health effects. Some of the chemicals found in these products include:
- Parabens: Preservatives that can mimic estrogen and are linked to hormone imbalances, reproductive issues, and fibroid growth.
- Phthalates: Endocrine disruptors that can interfere with hormones, contributing to fertility issues and an increased risk of conditions like endometriosis and fibroids.
- Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): Chemicals that can disrupt the endocrine system and negatively impact reproductive health.
- Fragrance Chemicals: Artificial fragrances that often contain allergens and chemicals that can disrupt hormonal balance.
- Environmental Phenols: Compounds such as BPA and triclosan that interfere with the endocrine system and can impact fertility and reproductive health.
- Dioxins and Dioxin-like Compounds: Found in bleached products like tampons and pads, these are linked to cancer, immune system suppression, and reproductive issues.
Direct exposure to these chemicals can cause harm, including fertility issues and uterine fibroids. Many chemicals found in these products can increase the body’s exposure to estrogen-like compounds, which may stimulate the growth of existing fibroids or contribute to the development of new ones. By mimicking estrogen, these chemicals can feed the fibroids, leading to larger growths and more severe symptoms.
Given these risks, it is important to research the products. Look for products that are transparent about their ingredients. Consider choosing products made from organic cotton or those that are certified as free from chemicals like chlorine, phthalates, and fragrances.
How to Pick The Right Period Products
When selecting the right option, the level of flow needs to be first assessed; heavy bleeding from fibroids means you need products with high absorbency. Comfort is also paramount, so it’s best to look for options that won’t add to the pressure or discomfort fibroids can cause.
Your lifestyle plays a significant role in determining the type of product you need, such as whether you require a product that can withstand exercise, travel, or a busy daily routine. Your personal values, such as environmental impact and budget, can also influence your choice, as reusable options can be eco-friendly and offer long-term savings despite a higher initial cost. In case of emergency, heavy bleeding or heavy flow, it is best to double up and keep multiple period product options at hand, such as tampons, pads, and period underwear.
Treatment for Heavy Bleeding Caused by Fibroids
If you’re constantly dealing with heavy menstrual bleeding caused by fibroids, non-surgical, minimally invasive treatment options like uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) can be life-changing.
UFE is a procedure that stops the blood supply to fibroids, causing them to shrink. This can relieve common symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding and pelvic discomfort. Since UFE is an office-based procedure, it offers a quick recovery time, making it an ideal choice for those who want to avoid major surgery.
Find A Solution for Heavy Bleeding at USA Fibroid Centers
Dealing with heavy bleeding from fibroids can be difficult. USA Fibroid Centers specializes in UFE, a minimally invasive treatment that can significantly reduce heavy bleeding and improve your quality of life.
Our expert physicians work with you to create a personalized treatment plan designed to address your specific needs. Take the first step toward relief. Schedule a consultation with USA Fibroid Centers today.
TALK TO A FIBROID SPECIALIST TODAY
