Fibroids: Signs, treatments, and real-life tips

Up to 70% of women will have uterine fibroids by age 50. Many never know it because fibroids often cause no symptoms. But when they do, the effects can be big: heavy periods, pelvic pressure, bloating, and trouble getting pregnant. If you’re wondering what to do next, this page cuts through the noise and gives clear, practical steps.

Symptoms and when to see a doctor

Fibroids can be tiny or large. Common signs include heavy or long menstrual bleeding, passing clots, pelvic pain or pressure, frequent urination, and lower back pain. You might also notice an enlarging belly or pain during sex. If heavy periods leave you tired, dizzy, or anemic, see a doctor. If you’re trying to conceive and have unexplained infertility or repeated miscarriages, bring up fibroids during your visit.

Doctors usually confirm fibroids with a pelvic exam and an ultrasound. Sometimes an MRI is used to map fibroid size and location — that helps decide the best treatment.

Treatment choices and what to expect

Treatment depends on symptoms, fibroid size and location, your age, and whether you want to have children. Options range from simple to invasive:

- Watchful waiting: If symptoms are mild, many women choose monitoring. Fibroids can stay the same or shrink after menopause.

- Medications: Hormonal pills, IUDs that reduce bleeding, tranexamic acid for heavy periods, and drugs that temporarily shrink fibroids (like GnRH agonists) can help control symptoms. These often work while you use them but may not be a permanent fix.

- Minimally invasive procedures: Uterine artery embolization (UAE) cuts blood flow to fibroids so they shrink. It usually shortens recovery and keeps the uterus.

- Surgery: Myomectomy removes fibroids but keeps the uterus — a common choice for women who want kids. Hysterectomy removes the whole uterus and cures fibroids but ends fertility.

Talk with your doctor about risks and recovery time for each option. If fertility matters, ask about which treatments preserve pregnancy chances and whether specialist referral is a good idea.

Practical tips you can use now

- Track bleeding and pain: Note how many pads or tampons you use, and when pain peaks. This helps the doctor decide what to do.

- Treat anemia: If heavy bleeding makes you tired, check iron levels. Iron pills or IV iron can help quickly so you feel better.

- Manage pain: Heat packs, over-the-counter pain relievers, and light exercise often reduce cramps and pressure.

- Ask about fertility timing: If you plan pregnancy, some doctors recommend fixing fibroids before trying to conceive. Others suggest timing based on fibroid type and location.

Fibroids are common and treatable. Get clear answers from your provider, keep a simple symptom diary, and weigh the options based on your goals — relief, preserving fertility, or a long-term cure.