Fibroids, also called uterine fibroids or leiomyomas, are non-cancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus. They are made of muscle and fibrous tissue and can vary in size. Some are as small as a seed, while others can grow large enough to change the shape of the uterus.
Fibroids are very common in women of reproductive age. Many women may not even know they have them because fibroids do not always cause symptoms. However, for others, fibroids can lead to discomfort, heavy periods, or trouble getting pregnant.
A common question many women ask is, “Can I feel my fibroids?” The answer depends on several factors, such as the size, number, and location of the fibroids. This article will explain when and how you might feel fibroids and what symptoms to watch for.
What Causes Fibroids to Develop?
The exact cause of fibroids is not fully known, but several factors may play a role. Hormones like estrogen and progesterone help the growth of the uterine lining during the menstrual cycle. These same hormones also seem to encourage the growth of fibroids.
Fibroids often grow during pregnancy when hormone levels are high and shrink after menopause when hormone levels drop. Genetics also appear to influence fibroid development. If your mother or sister has fibroids, your chances of having them are higher.
Other possible contributors include obesity, high blood pressure, and vitamin D deficiency. Although fibroids are not cancerous, they can still affect a woman’s quality of life and fertility.
Can You Actually Feel Fibroids From the Outside?
In most cases, you cannot feel fibroids through the skin or outside of your body. However, if the fibroids are very large or positioned near the surface of the uterus, you might notice a firm mass or swelling in the lower abdomen. Some women say it feels like being pregnant.
Doctors may be able to feel large fibroids during a pelvic exam. The uterus might feel bigger or misshapen. If you lie on your back and press on your lower belly, you may feel some firmness, especially if the fibroid is large and near the front of the uterus.
Still, feeling fibroids on your own is rare unless they are significantly enlarged. Most fibroids are small and deep inside the uterus, making them impossible to detect without imaging tests.
How Do You Know If You Have Fibroids?
Even though you might not be able to feel fibroids, your body may give you some signs. Symptoms of fibroids depend on their size, number, and where they are located in the uterus. Some women have no symptoms at all, while others experience:
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Periods that last longer than a week
- Pelvic pressure or pain
- Frequent urination
- Difficulty emptying the bladder
- Constipation
- Back or leg pain
- Pain during sex
These symptoms can be caused by other conditions too, so it is important to see a healthcare provider if you have them. A doctor can perform a pelvic exam and order imaging tests like an ultrasound or MRI to confirm if fibroids are present.
What Do Fibroids Feel Like Internally?
You usually cannot feel fibroids directly, but you might feel their effects. Large fibroids can press on nearby organs. This pressure can cause a constant feeling of heaviness or fullness in the lower belly.
Some women describe the feeling as bloating or swelling that does not go away. If fibroids push against the bladder, you may feel the urge to urinate often or feel like your bladder never fully empties. If they press on the rectum, you may have trouble with bowel movements.
Fibroids inside the uterus, called submucosal fibroids, can cause sharp cramps, especially during menstruation. You might also notice larger blood clots during your period or severe bleeding that affects daily life.
Can Fibroids Be Mistaken for Other Conditions?
Yes, fibroids can sometimes be mistaken for other health problems. Because their symptoms overlap with many other gynecological issues, such as ovarian cysts, endometriosis, or even early pregnancy, diagnosis can be delayed without proper testing.
For example, bloating and pelvic pressure might be seen as digestive issues. Heavy bleeding could be misread as a hormonal imbalance. Pain during sex might be linked to emotional or muscular causes. That is why medical evaluation is essential.
When Are Fibroids More Likely to Be Felt?
Fibroids become more noticeable as they grow larger. The larger they are, the more likely they are to cause symptoms and be felt either internally or, in rare cases, externally.
During pregnancy, fibroids may grow quickly and become more noticeable. You might feel added pressure, cramping, or pain due to hormonal changes and the growing uterus.
Menopausal women usually see a decrease in fibroid size because hormone levels drop. After menopause, it becomes less likely that fibroids will cause symptoms or be noticeable.
How Are Fibroids Diagnosed?
If you have symptoms of fibroids or think you can feel something unusual in your abdomen, the first step is to see a doctor. They may perform a pelvic exam to check the shape and size of the uterus.
To confirm the diagnosis, imaging tests are used. These include:
- Ultrasound: The most common first test. It uses sound waves to create a picture of the uterus.
- MRI: Gives more detailed images, especially useful if surgery is considered.
- Sonohysterogram: A special ultrasound done with fluid in the uterus.
- Hysteroscopy: A thin tube with a camera is inserted into the uterus to look for fibroids.
These tests help determine the size, location, and type of fibroids, which is important for choosing the best treatment.
Can You Treat Fibroids?
Yes, fibroids can be treated in many ways, depending on the severity of your symptoms and whether you want to become pregnant.
If fibroids are small and not causing symptoms, no treatment may be needed. Your doctor may suggest regular monitoring.
If fibroids cause heavy bleeding or pain, medications such as hormonal birth control or medicines that shrink fibroids can help.
In some cases, surgery may be necessary. Options include:
- Myomectomy: Removes the fibroids but keeps the uterus. Good for women who want children.
- Hysterectomy: Removes the uterus. This is a permanent solution for severe cases.
- Uterine artery embolization: Blocks blood flow to the fibroids, making them shrink.
Each treatment has pros and cons, and the best choice depends on your health and fertility goals.
Do Fibroids Affect Fertility?
Fibroids can affect fertility, but not always. Many women with fibroids can still get pregnant and have healthy babies. However, certain fibroids, especially those that grow into the uterine cavity, can make it harder to conceive or stay pregnant.
Fibroids may interfere with the implantation of a fertilized egg or increase the risk of miscarriage. Large fibroids can also block the fallopian tubes or distort the shape of the uterus.
If you are trying to get pregnant and have fibroids, it is a good idea to talk to a fertility specialist. They can recommend the right tests and treatments to improve your chances of success.
Conclusion
While most women cannot feel their fibroids from the outside, some may experience symptoms like pressure, pain, or a firm mass in the abdomen if the fibroids are large. These symptoms often overlap with other conditions, so proper diagnosis is key.
Understanding your symptoms and speaking with a doctor can help you find out if fibroids are the cause. There are many ways to manage fibroids, and treatment options vary depending on your needs and goals.
Early detection and the right approach can improve your quality of life and your chances of having a healthy pregnancy if that is your goal. If you suspect you have fibroids or have been diagnosed with them, know that you are not alone, and help is available.
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