Why Do Fibroids Cause Heavy Bleeding
Are you experiencing heavy bleeding or pelvic pain? The cause could be uterine fibroids. These non-cancerous tumors can lead to heavy bleeding during your period or spotting between cycles. It’s important to recognize the signs of uterine fibroids and know that there are treatment options that will help you get back to the person you were before you had fibroids. Fibroids, also known as uterine leiomyomas, are benign growths that develop within or on the walls of the uterus. When it comes to heavy bleeding, fibroids can play a significant role. The growth of fibroids can lead to an enlargement of the uterus, which disrupts the normal balance of hormonal regulation during the menstrual cycle. This disruption can increase the production of certain hormones, such as estrogen, which can stimulate the growth of the endometrium (the lining of the uterus). As a result, the endometrium becomes thicker and more extensive than usual, leading to heavier and prolonged menstrual bleeding. Additionally, fibroids can cause changes in the blood vessels around the uterus, making them more susceptible to bleeding. These factors contribute to heavy bleeding in women with fibroids, often resulting in significant discomfort and disruption to their daily lives.
Fibroids and Irregular Bleeding
For women who do experience uterine fibroid symptoms, the most common is irregular or heavy bleeding. Abnormal bleeding is anything outside of your menstrual cycle, if your flow is significantly heavier than normal, or if you experience any re-occurrence during menopause. This type of bleeding doesn’t always indicate a serious condition, but it’s often linked to uterine fibroids.
If you have uterine fibroids, you may notice these symptoms:
- Heavy, prolonged periods lasting 10+ days
- Irregular bleeding
- Pelvic pressure or pain
- Frequent urination or difficulty emptying the bladder
- Constipation or other intestinal issues
- Back or leg pain
- Difficulty getting pregnant
- Bloating or protruding belly
Many of our patients have told us that heavy, unpredictable bleeding was the deciding factor in choosing to seek fibroid treatment. Due to the fact that every situation is different, some women may not experience heavy, prolonged bleeding. If you have noticed that you are using more feminine hygiene products than normal, it may be an indication of uterine fibroids. Periods lasting longer than 10 days per month, or consistently bleeding between menstrual cycles, is not normal.
Women with fibroids who are going through menopause often see an improvement in abnormal bleeding. This is because fibroids shrink when estrogen levels drop during menopause. However, a small number of postmenopausal women will still experience heavy bleeding from uterine fibroids and look for a treatment option.
Heavy bleeding due to Fibroids and Anemia
The heavy bleeding caused by fibroids can lead to a condition known as anemia. Anemia occurs when there is a decrease in the number of red blood cells or a low level of hemoglobin in the blood. Hemoglobin is responsible for carrying oxygen to various parts of the body. Excessive and prolonged menstrual bleeding associated with fibroids can result in a significant loss of blood, leading to a decrease in red blood cells and hemoglobin levels. This can ultimately result in anemia, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, dizziness, and pale skin. Anemia can significantly impact a person’s quality of life, making it essential to address the underlying cause of heavy bleeding, such as fibroids, to prevent or manage anemia effectively. Proper diagnosis, treatment, and management of fibroids can help alleviate heavy bleeding, reduce the risk of anemia, and restore overall health and well-being.
Treatment for Fibroids and Abnormal Bleeding
If you have fibroids and irregular bleeding, you’re not alone. Other women have walked the same path, and there’s a treatment option that can help you feel like yourself again. We understand how frustrating and stressful unpredictable, heavy bleeding can be. USA Fibroid Centers offers Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE), a treatment that can help relieve your heavy bleeding and other uterine fibroid symptoms. UFE is an outpatient procedure that only takes around 30-45 minutes.
After their UFE procedure, 90% of our patients reported that they had lighter, shorter periods.
Contact USA Fibroid Centers
You’re not alone — USA Fibroid Centers is here to help. Whether you’re dealing with fibroids and abnormal bleeding or spotting, we will listen to your symptoms and help you choose the right treatment. If you’re not sure if your symptoms are from uterine fibroids, contact us today. You can also take our symptom quiz to learn more.