Can uterine fibroids cause abdominal pain?

People often overlook their daily dietary habits and may consume numerous foods with strong irritants or highly processed foods, potentially leading to disease development and adverse effects on the body. So, can uterine fibroids cause abdominal pain?

Can uterine fibroids cause abdominal pain?

Uterine fibroids typically do not cause abdominal pain. In their early stages, fibroids are usually asymptomatic and small, growing within the muscular wall of the uterus. However, if a fibroid grows rapidly, it may undergo ischemia and necrosis. For example, during pregnancy, rapid fibroid growth can trigger pain, and some individuals may even develop fever. Over time, the most characteristic symptom associated with uterine fibroids is menstrual change. When fibroids become relatively large, they may cause pressure-related symptoms—such as urinary frequency and constipation—but generally do not cause pain.

Patients with uterine fibroids should also pay close attention to their diet. Consuming more vegetables, fruits, and soy products may help reduce the risk of developing fibroids. Conversely, diets high in fat and cholesterol may promote fibroid development; therefore, patients should avoid smoking and alcohol consumption and cultivate healthy dietary and lifestyle habits. Additionally, patients should minimize intake of nutritionally fortified foods or medications containing high levels of estrogen—such as donkey-hide gelatin (ejiao), soy milk, and bird’s nest—as well as estrogen-containing health supplements, since these may stimulate the onset and progression of uterine fibroids.

If diagnosed with uterine fibroids, patients must avoid spicy and irritating foods in daily life. We hope this information proves helpful to you.