Fibroids are causing me to feel bloated.
We hear things like this from our fibroid patients every day:
“My belly feels full all the time.”
“My clothes aren’t fitting right anymore.”
“I look five months pregnant.”
“I feel uncomfortable every time I go anywhere because of the bloating.”
No one wants to feel bloated. Bloating causes your belly to feel full. You may feel pressure, tightness, and mild pain and discomfort. Bloating may start as mild discomfort but become worse over time. There are many reasons a woman may feel bloated. In some cases, fibroids are the cause.
What are fibroids and how can they cause bloating?
Fibroids are noncancerous tumors in the uterine wall caused by overgrowth of uterine muscle. They can be as small as a pea or as large as a melon and grow in almost any part of your uterus.
Pain, bloating, swelling, and discomfort are some of the most common symptoms of fibroids. Pain can be caused by the growth of fibroid tissue, fluid retention, irritation of the uterus, or hormonal changes. Feeling bloated can cause women to avoid social situations or to miss time with family and friends.
Fibroids can also cause stomach swelling (distension).
A distended stomach can be caused by many issues, one of which is fibroids. It is very important that you be thoroughly examined by a doctor to determine the cause if your stomach becomes distended.
For women with fibroids, the fibroid can grow larger and cause the uterus to expand, to make more room. Women with fibroids may first notice distension when dressing, observing that clothes are not fitting as well as normal. Some women feel like they appear to be pregnant. These changes can be especially difficult if a woman is also struggling with infertility.
This change can also cause difficulties with urination, digestive issues, and a different pattern of menstrual cramps.
Fibroids can often continue to grow and cause symptoms like bloating unless treated.
Because fibroids can continue to grow, bloating and swelling can continue or get worse. Addressing fibroid symptoms early can help prevent future symptoms and make life better.
Even though fibroids are usually not life-threatening, heavy bleeding can lead to anemia which can have significant health consequences, and other symptoms like bloating and swelling can interfere with important parts of life.
When bloating or swelling are caused by digestive issues, they may be able to be treated by a change in diet and exercise. But with fibroids, lifestyle changes may not be sufficient because the growth of the fibroid cannot be treated by diet and exercise alone.
Fibroid treatments can address bloating and swelling for many women.
Treatment for fibroids include a hysterectomy, myomectomy, and uterine fibroid embolization (UFE). It is important to consult with a medical professional to find the best treatment for your situation. Patients who are an ideal candidate for UFE include women who have symptomatic fibroids and who want to keep their uterus.
If you do not want major surgery, want a shorter recovery time, want to preserve your ability to have children, or may not be a good candidate for major surgery, you may be an ideal candidate for UFE.
An informative and caring process
Our patients want to make informed decisions about treatment with a trusted, world-class medical group that supports an effective pain management plan.
We have responded with processes that are minimally invasive and limit your loss of work and personal time. Our experienced physicians and staff keep you informed at each step of the process.
We always provide a personalized evaluation, treatment, and pain management plan. Our support continues after treatment with a comprehensive follow-up plan.