The Link Between Uterine Fibroids & Abdominal Swelling Explained

Abdominal swelling, also called abdominal swelling, can be a bothersome symptom associated with uterine fibroids. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for managing this condition is crucial for effective care. If you experience abdominal swelling or other symptoms and want to discuss the treatment for uterine fibroids, call Dr. Robert Azizi to discuss your options.

Abdominal swelling is a prevalent symptom that can have various underlying causes. One common condition associated with abdominal swelling is uterine fibroids. 

In this blog post, we will delve into the relationship between uterine fibroids and abdominal swelling, exploring the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for managing this condition.

 

What are Uterine Fibroids? 

Uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomas or simply fibroids, are noncancerous growths that develop in the uterus. They are composed of muscle tissue and typically appear during a woman’s childbearing years. 

Fibroids can vary in size, ranging from small, pea-sized growths to large masses that can distort the shape and size of the uterus.

 

What Causes Uterine Fibroids? 

The exact cause of fibroids is not fully understood, but several factors are believed to contribute to their development. These factors include: 

• Hormonal imbalances
• Genetics
• Estrogen 
• Progesterone levels, as fibroids tend to grow in response to these hormones

 

What Are The Symptoms Of Uterine Fibroids? 

In addition to abdominal swelling, uterine fibroids may present with other symptoms. These can vary depending on the size, number, and location of the fibroids. Common symptoms associated with uterine fibroids include:

1. Heavy or Prolonged Menstrual Bleeding:

Fibroids can disrupt the normal hormonal balance, leading to heavy or prolonged menstrual periods.

2. Pelvic Pain or Pressure:

Large fibroids can cause discomfort or pain in the pelvic region. Women may experience pressure on the bladder, leading to increased frequency of urination.

3. Abdominal or Back Pain:

Fibroids can cause pain in the lower abdomen or back, similar to menstrual cramps.

4. Frequent urination:

Fibroids that press against the bladder can cause increased pressure on the urinary system, leading to a frequent need to urinate. Women may find themselves needing to urinate more frequently than usual, including waking up multiple times during the night to use the restroom.

5. Difficulty emptying the bladder:

Large fibroids or those positioned near the cervix can obstruct the flow of urine from the bladder, resulting in difficulty fully emptying the bladder. This can lead to a feeling of incomplete emptying after urination.

6. Constipation:

Fibroids located in the posterior part of the uterus near the bowels can put pressure on the rectum, leading to constipation. This can cause infrequent bowel movements, difficulty passing stool, or a feeling of incomplete evacuation.

7. Enlarged abdomen or bloating:

As fibroids grow in size, they can cause the uterus to expand, resulting in an enlarged abdomen. This can lead to a sense of bloating or a feeling of fullness in the lower abdomen. In some cases, the abdomen may become visibly distended, resembling a pregnant belly.

 

How Are Uterine Fibroids Diagnosed? 

The diagnosis of fibroids is usually made during a routine pelvic examination, where the doctor may feel irregularities in the shape or size of the uterus. Additional tests such as ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or hysteroscopy may be conducted to confirm the presence of fibroids and evaluate their characteristics.

 

What Is Abdominal Swelling From Fibroids? 

Abdominal distention in uterine fibroids refers to the swelling or bloating of the abdomen that can occur as a result of fibroids growing in the uterus. As fibroids increase in size, they can cause the uterus to expand, leading to a noticeable increase in abdominal girth. 

 

What Are The Causes Of Abdominal Swelling?

Abdominal swelling in uterine fibroids primarily occurs due to the enlargement of the uterus caused by the presence of fibroids. Fibroids are composed of muscle and connective tissue that grow within or on the uterus. As these growths increase in size, they can cause the uterus to expand, resulting in a protruding abdomen and abdominal bloating.

 

What Treatment Is Available For Uterine Fibroids?

The management of uterine fibroids and associated abdominal swelling depends on the severity of symptoms, the desire for future pregnancies, and the overall health of the patient. Here are several treatment options commonly considered:

1. Watchful Waiting:

If fibroids are small, asymptomatic, and not causing significant discomfort, a “watchful waiting” approach may be adopted. Regular monitoring through pelvic exams and ultrasounds can ensure any changes in the fibroids are detected.

2. Medications:

Certain medications, such as hormonal birth control or gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists, can help regulate menstrual bleeding, shrink fibroids, and alleviate associated symptoms.

3. Minimally Invasive Procedures:

Several minimally invasive procedures can be performed to remove or shrink fibroids. These include:

• Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE): This procedure involves blocking the blood supply to the fibroids, causing them to shrink and alleviating symptoms. You can read more about how UFE can be helpful in treating uterine fibroids.

4. Surgical Intervention:

In cases of larger fibroids or severe symptoms, surgical options may be considered. These include:

• Myomectomy: This surgical procedure involves the removal of fibroids while preserving the uterus, making it an option for women who desire future pregnancies.
• Hysterectomy: In severe cases or when fertility is not a concern, surgical removal of the uterus (hysterectomy) may be recommended as a definitive treatment.

Understanding the connection between uterine fibroids and abdominal swelling can help individuals recognize the potential cause of their symptoms and seek appropriate medical evaluation and treatment options to manage fibroids effectively.

 

Speak to Dr. Robert Azizi From South California in Bell Gardens, Buena Park & Korea Town.       

If you’re struggling with Uterine Fibroids, come in for a consultation – you will be in the best hands with Dr. Robert Azizi. With years of experience treating fibroids, Dr. Azizi can help you achieve relief from your symptoms and get on with living your best lives. Book an appointment today!