What are the symptoms of uterine fibroids?

Jul 15, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Lu

Introduction

Under normal circumstances, uterine fibroids are benign tumors formed by the hyperplasia of uterine smooth muscle tissue. Their main symptoms include menstrual abnormalities, abdominal masses, increased vaginal discharge, lower abdominal heaviness and pain, and pressure-related symptoms. If the aforementioned symptoms occur, especially in women over middle age, timely medical consultation and relevant examinations should be conducted to rule out the possibility of uterine fibroids.

Generally, uterine fibroids are benign tumors formed by the hyperplasia of uterine smooth muscle tissue. Their symptoms mainly include menstrual abnormalities, abdominal masses, increased vaginal discharge, lower abdominal heaviness and pain, and compressive symptoms. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Menstrual abnormalities: Patients often experience increased menstrual flow, with total blood loss per menstrual period clearly exceeding the normal range, and prolonged menstrual duration exceeding 7 days. Some patients may experience irregular vaginal bleeding outside the menstrual period, which is related to the enlarged endometrial surface area and impaired uterine contraction caused by the fibroid.

2. Abdominal mass: When the fibroid grows to a certain size, patients may feel a mass in the lower abdomen. The mass is usually hard, located in the midline of the lower abdomen, and has relatively clear borders. In the morning when the bladder is full, the uterus is pushed upward, making the mass easier to detect, and it gradually enlarges as the fibroid grows.

3. Increased vaginal discharge: Fibroids enlarge the uterine cavity, leading to increased secretion from the endometrial glands, resulting in increased vaginal discharge. If the fibroid becomes infected or necrotic, the discharge may turn purulent with a noticeable odor. Some patients may have blood-tinged discharge, which is associated with mucosal surface damage of the fibroid.

4. Lower abdominal heaviness and pain: Patients may feel persistent heaviness in the lower abdomen, accompanied by dull or aching pain. Symptoms worsen during menstruation or after physical exertion. If the fibroid undergoes torsion of its pedicle or red degeneration, sudden acute abdominal pain occurs, characterized by severe, paroxysmal pain requiring prompt relief.

5. Compressive symptoms: Larger fibroids may compress surrounding organs. Compression of the bladder can cause frequent urination, urgency, and difficulty in urination; compression of the rectum may lead to constipation and pain during defecation; compression of the ureters can cause hydronephrosis and lower back pain. These symptoms vary depending on the location and size of the fibroid.

If the above symptoms occur, especially in women over middle age, timely medical consultation and relevant examinations should be conducted to rule out the possibility of uterine fibroids. Meanwhile, maintaining good lifestyle and dietary habits can help prevent the occurrence and progression of uterine fibroids.

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What should I do if I become pregnant with uterine fibroids?

In general, women who become pregnant with uterine fibroids should manage their condition through enhanced prenatal monitoring, adjustment of daily activities, attention to nutritional diet, awareness of physical symptoms, and cooperation with medical interventions. It is important to maintain a positive mindset during pregnancy and avoid excessive anxiety, as anxious emotions may affect hormone levels and jeopardize pregnancy stability. At the same time, maintain close communication with the physician to stay informed about both maternal and fetal conditions.

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Is uterine fibroid serious?

In general, the severity of uterine fibroids needs to be determined based on their size, symptoms, and growth pattern. Small fibroids without symptoms are usually not serious and do not require special treatment; however, fibroids that cause significant symptoms or grow rapidly are considered more severe and require timely intervention. In daily life, it is important to maintain a regular作息 (作息 should be translated as "routine" or "lifestyle rhythm"), avoid excessive fatigue, limit the intake of foods high in estrogen, and reduce the risk of fibroid growth.

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How are uterine fibroids caused?

Under normal circumstances, the main causes of uterine fibroids include hormonal changes, aging, endometritis, polycystic ovary syndrome, and adenomyosis. If discomfort symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek timely medical treatment at a正规 hospital. In daily life, one should maintain external genital hygiene and avoid unclean sexual activity; maintain a regular diet and balanced nutrition.

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What causes bleeding during ovulation?

In general, bleeding during the ovulation period may be caused by a temporary decline in estrogen levels, vigorous exercise, endometritis, cervical polyps, submucosal uterine fibroids, or other factors. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance. Additionally, it is important to maintain menstrual hygiene, change sanitary products frequently, and avoid unclean sexual practices.