Some people have fibroids that do not cause symptoms. If a fibroid does cause symptoms, it may be because of the size or location.
Symptoms range from mild to severe. Large fibroids can cause:
- Pelvic pain or pressure
- Low back or leg pain
- Pain during sex
- A frequent need to pass urine
- Constipation—a problem passing stool
- Bloating
- Abdominal swelling
- Infertility when fibroids block fallopian tubes
Bleeding symptoms are:
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Blood clots in menstrual flow
- Long periods
- Bleeding between periods
- Increased cramping during periods
- Miscarriage
Bleeding that lasts a long time can lead to iron-deficiency anemia. This can cause:
- Lack of energy and strength
- Shortness of breath
- Pale skin
- Lightheadedness
References
Uterine fibroids. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists website. Available at: https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/uterine-fibroids. Accessed May 9, 2022.
Uterine fibroids fact sheet. Women's Health—US Department of Health and Human Services website. Available at: https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/uterine-fibroids. Accessed May 9, 2022.
Uterine leiomyoma. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/uterine-leiomyoma. Accessed May 9, 2022.