Can Fibroids Pass During My Period

Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in or on the uterus, regularly affecting women during their reproductive years. Although fibroids often cause symptoms like heavy menstrual bleeding and pelvic discomfort, there’s a common question among patients – can fibroids actually pass during a period? The answer is yes, but it is very rare and not common. In this blog, we’ll explore the possibility, what it might feel like, and when to speak to a provider for diagnosis and treatment.

Understanding Uterine Fibroids

Fibroids vary in size, shape, and location and are classified into four main types:

• Intramural Fibroids: Grow within the uterine wall.
• Submucosal Fibroids: Develop beneath the uterine lining, often impacting menstrual flow.
• Subserosal Fibroids: Form on the outside of the uterus.
• Pedunculated Fibroids: Attached to the uterus by a stalk-like structure.

Common Symptoms of Fibroids

While many women experience no symptoms, others may notice:

• Abnormal or heavy menstrual bleeding.
• Bloating and fullness.
• Constipation. 
• Frequent urination.
• Lower back pain.
• Pelvic pressure or pain.

What Causes Fibroids in the Uterus?

The exact cause of uterine fibroids (also called leiomyomas) is unclear, but a combination of genetic, hormonal, and lifestyle risk factors seems to play a role. Here are the main contributors:

• Hormonal Imbalance: Estrogen and progesterone, the hormones responsible for regulating the menstrual cycle, are known to stimulate fibroid growth. When hormone levels decrease, fibroids tend to shrink during menopause.
• Genetics: Women with a family history of fibroids and benign tumors are more likely to develop them, as certain genetic changes can influence fibroid development. 
• Lifestyle Factors: Diet, obesity, and alcohol consumption can influence fibroid development. Studies have shown that diets high in red meat and alcohol can increase fibroid risk, while diets rich in vegetables and low-fat dairy might reduce it. 
• Race: African-American women have a greater risk of developing fibroids than any other demographic group.

Understanding these risk factors can be useful in managing or preventing fibroids, but they don’t necessarily predict when or why fibroids might cause more severe symptoms. 

Is It Possible for Fibroids to Pass During Your Period?

While it is possible for fibroids to be expelled during menstruation, it is not common. Fibroids grow from the muscular tissue of the uterus and are usually firmly attached to the uterine wall or on its outer surface. Because of this deep-rooted connection to uterine tissue, fibroids do not detach easily. 

Symptoms That Mimic Passing a Fibroid

During heavy periods, you may pass large blood clots or tissue, which can resemble fibroid expulsion. These are often normal parts of your menstrual cycle rather than fibroids themselves.

Causes of Fibroid Expulsion

Fibroid expulsion is rare but can occur under specific circumstances:

• Hormonal Changes: As estrogen levels drop, particularly during menopause, fibroids may shrink or break down, potentially leading to expulsion.
• Treatment Effects: Fibroids may pass after undergoing uterine fibroid embolization (UFE), which involves cutting off the blood supply to fibroids, causing them to shrink and eventually die. Once this occurs, the fibroids will be reabsorbed or passed by the body.  

What Does Passing a Fibroid Feel Like?

If a fibroid does pass, the experience can be uncomfortable and may include:

• Severe Cramping: Intense uterine contractions to expel the tissue.
• Heavy Bleeding: More substantial than a typical menstrual flow.
• Tissue Expulsion: Passing solid tissue fragments along with blood.

These symptoms are often accompanied by fatigue or lightheadedness due to blood loss.

When Patients Should Be Concerned About Fibroids

Although many women with fibroids may experience mild symptoms or no symptoms at all, others suffer from more intense discomfort and complications. Here’s when fibroids might become a cause for concern:

• Prolonged or heavy bleeding during periods: Bleeding ranges from light spotting to soaking through a pad or tampon. Excessive bleeding that requires frequent pad or tampon changes, or periods lasting more than a week, may be a sign of larger or more numerous fibroids. 
• Pelvic pain or pressure: Larger fibroids cause a general feeling of heaviness or fullness in the pelvic region. They can press on nearby organs, causing pain or pressure in the pelvis, lower back, or even legs.
• Pain during intercourse: Fibroids can lead to pain during sexual intercourse due to their location or size.
• Enlargement of the lower abdomen: This may be caused by a single large fibroid or multiple small ones.

When to Be Concerned About Fibroid Bleeding

Prolonged or heavy bleeding is a common symptom of uterine fibroids but can disrupt a person’s life. Patients should get medical attention if they have:

• A heavier flow than normal
• Prolonged periods
• Passing blood clots larger than the size of a quarter
• Bleeding in between periods

Increased blood loss may lead to other health concerns, like extreme fatigue and anemia, when left untreated. This is why working with a trained health care professional is essential.

Get Answers to Your Fibroid Questions

While fibroids rarely pass during a period, understanding your symptoms and seeking medical advice when needed can help you manage this condition effectively. If you suspect you’ve passed fibroid tissue or experience unusual bleeding or pain, consult American Fibroid Centers for treatment options. American Fibroids Centers offers UFE to relieve women’s fibroid symptoms. 

Managing fibroids doesn’t have to disrupt your life, and with proper treatment, it can alleviate your discomfort. For more information on fibroids symptoms, causes, and treatments, contact American Fibroids Centers today. Connect with our team to learn more about how we can help you find lasting relief.