What Can Happen if Uterine Fibroids Are Not Treated

Fibroid Pain: A Sign of Uterine Fibroids

Although some people with uterine fibroids experience no symptoms at all, others are subject to pain that is intense enough to limit their everyday activities. Large fibroids are more likely to cause pain, with the pain often presenting as heaviness or pressure in the lower abdomen or pelvis. Many women describe the pain as a vague discomfort that can make it difficult to lie face down or bend over. The level of pain you experience may also depend on the location, size, and number of fibroids you have.

In some cases, fibroids can cause severe, acute pain that occurs when a fibroid begins to degenerate. Pain caused by fibroid degeneration is usually localized and may resolve on its own within four weeks. However, it is important to inform your doctor if you are experiencing pain that you think is related to uterine fibroids.

Symptoms of Fibroid Pain

Pain from uterine fibroids can range from non-existent to severe. When pain is present, it may only occur during sex or menstruation, or it may be present more persistently. Addressing pain is crucial for ensuring that those with uterine fibroids do not feel limited by their pain. Symptoms of fibroid pain can include:

  • Chronic pelvic pressure and pain that is often dull
  • Lower back pain
  • Abdominal swelling and bloating
  • Painful periods
  • Pain during sex

Causes of Fibroid Pain

Pain in the pelvic area can be caused by a variety of gynecological conditions and issues. Fibroid pain, though, is unique to uterine fibroids. The pain most often occurs because of the weight of the fibroid itself as it rests on or presses against the organs in the pelvis. It is important to see your doctor if you are experiencing pain so that they can determine whether the discomfort is caused by uterine fibroids or something else entirely. Causes of pain in the pelvic area may include:

  • Uterine fibroids
  • Endometriosis
  • Adenomyosis
  • Pelvic infection
  • Twisted or ruptured ovarian cysts
  • Urinary tract infection
  • Appendicitis
  • Ruptured fallopian tube
  • Musculoskeletal problem
  • Irritable bowel syndrome
  • Pelvic Congestion Syndrome
Consultation for Fibroid Pain
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How Do Fibroids Cause Pain?

Fibroid pain stems not from the fibroids themselves hurting, but from their presence in the pelvis and the organs they press against. The same process applies to back pain associated with fibroids. Pelvic pain can also come about due to spillage of blood into the peritoneal cavity from the uterine cavity through the fallopian tubes during heavy periods (retrograde menstruation).  Blood is very irritating to the inside lining of the organs, the perioneal cavity. In terms of bulk symptoms, fibroids can press against the muscles and nerves of the lower back, leading to pain. There are many causes of back pain, and your doctor can help determine if the pain is being caused by something other than uterine fibroids. Those with larger fibroids closer to the back of the uterus are more likely to experience back pain.

Woman Hunched in Pain

Fibroid Pain Relief

Treatment for fibroid pain depends on the severity of your symptoms. Once we know that your pelvic or back pain is being caused by uterine fibroids, our specialists at American Fibroid Centers will determine the best next steps for you. Lifestyle changes may be all you need to address fibroid pain, while in other cases, we may suggest a minimally invasive procedure like Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) to shrink or eliminate your fibroids.

Lifestyle Changes & Medication

Fibroid pain can often be managed at home with lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications. Home remedies are often the best option for those with pain that does not necessarily affect their everyday lives. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (like ibuprofen) are often recommended. Other techniques for tackling fibroid pain at home include eating a healthy diet, limiting alcohol consumption, taking vitamin and mineral supplements, and exercising regularly.

UFE Procedure: Minimally Invasive Fibroid Treatment

In cases where the pain is more severe or your fibroids are causing other uncomfortable symptoms, Uterine Fibroid Embolization may be the best treatment option. UFE is a minimally invasive-image guided procedure during which blood flow to fibroids is blocked, causing the fibroids to shrink and die, eliminating symptoms. UFE is preferable to major surgery for fibroids as it does not require a hospital stay and is associated with a faster recovery time and fewer complications.

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What to Expect from UFE

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Decreased bleeding, pelvic pain, and pressure
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Improvement in physical and emotional well-being
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Less invasive process
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Lower risk of complications
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Faster recovery time
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Our Fibroid Specialists

Our board-certified physicians in New York and New Jersey are proud to be among the nation’s most experienced at treating uterine fibroids. When you request a consultation at American Fibroid Centers, our doctors will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that utilizes the most advanced technology and techniques.

Our Fibroid Centers in NY & NJ

Those experiencing fibroid pain or other uncomfortable symptoms associated with uterine fibroids can trust American Fibroid Centers for comprehensive, compassionate care. At our outpatient facilities in New Jersey and New York, we work with patients to help them live healthier, more comfortable lives. Visit your nearest location for top-class fibroid treatment today.

Brooklyn, NY
71, Carroll Street, New York, 11231
(833) 833-3973
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Queens, NY
28-18, 31st Street, New York, 11102
(833) 833-3973
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Fishkill, NY
60, Merritt Boulevard, Fishkill, New York, 12524
(833) 833-3973
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Harlem, NY
505, East 116th Street, New York, New York, 10029
(833) 833-3973
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West Orange, NJ
347, Mount Pleasant Avenue, West Orange, New Jersey, 07052
(833) 833-3973
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What Our Patients Are Saying

Learn more about our patients’ experiences at American Fibroid Centers.

You really need to identify who you are when texting.
Lt P
Lt P
17:01 21 Jun 23
Very professional and informative
Kieran McDonald
Kieran McDonald
21:48 12 Jun 23
Dr. Abadir and his staff are wonderful.
debdefran
debdefran
21:28 03 May 23
Wonderful staff very kind very thorough no waiting♥️. I’ve never been to a doctors office and treated with so much respect.. I’m looking forward to my next appointment 😇
Denise Sciarra
Denise Sciarra
16:16 17 Mar 23
The staff could not have been friendlier! I was treated so well and my procedure was a huge success!
Darcy Sala
Darcy Sala
14:44 28 Feb 23
Very friendly and hard working people. Excellent doctor and team!!!Thanks for being so helpful and encouraging!
finda jackson
finda jackson
13:37 03 Feb 23
Great experience very through staff are extremely helpful and friendly no wait time I highly recommend.
william cardoza
william cardoza
15:05 12 Sep 22
A doctor who listens, smart and personable, I liked him.
sherry svec
sherry svec
21:38 16 May 22
Went there for the first time didn’t have to fill out paperwork which constantly asked the same question. Nurses were friendly didn’t have to come back a second time to have test done did it rite then, doctor explain everything set up appointment to have procedure done and I’m very confident in the doctor
GARY DINI
GARY DINI
12:23 25 Jan 22
Excellent service. Dr. Abadir and staff were attentive and thoughtful. All communication regarding my visit were clear and concise and they took the time to listen and address all of my questions. Great visit!
dennis bernstein
dennis bernstein
14:50 21 Jan 22
I thank you very much you took good care I feel great I am very happy with you and I will be back .
Maleta Ford
Maleta Ford
14:24 02 Sep 21
Super friendly and communicative. Efficient staff in the office. A unique experience for a doctors office. Dr Abadir was concise and effective in his exam and explanations
William Silsdorf
William Silsdorf
19:56 07 Jun 21
I found the staff Extremely cordial and professional. Dr. Abidir took his time and explained what procedures needed to be doneAnd why he recommended them to establish a diagnosis.Dr. Abidir was reassuring and listened to and answered all of my questions.So far I am very pleased with the endo vascularProgram here.Clare Garvey
Clare Garvey
Clare Garvey
20:39 17 May 21
Pleased with staff and doctor is very compassionate
Jose Quinones
Jose Quinones
23:57 15 Mar 21
Thank you to you and your great staff.Bill Baratta
Rita Baratta
Rita Baratta
15:07 26 Jan 21
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