Navigating Uterine Fibroids: Symptoms, Causes, & Treatment

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Bani's Story and the Reality of Uterine Fibroids

Remember Bani from our page on Period pain overview, symptoms, causes? Bani was a budding lawyer, just starting to climb the corporate ladder. Her life was a whirlwind of late nights at the office, early morning runs, and meticulously planned weekends. But for the past year, something was off. Her periods, once a manageable inconvenience, had become a nightmare. The bleeding was so heavy that she was constantly worried about leaking through her clothes, even with super-plus pads. The cramps were a searing, constant pain, unlike anything she had ever experienced. They would hit during work meetings, forcing her to excuse herself and sit hunched over in a washroom, waiting for the pain to subside.

At first, she dismissed it. “It’s just bad cramps,” her mother would say, offering home remedies like hot water bottles and ginger tea. Her friends, caught up in the same fast-paced life, also had period pain complaints. But Bani’s pain was different. It wasn’t just confined to a day or two; it was a lingering, exhausting ache in her lower back and pelvis that made it hard to focus, even when she wasn’t on her period. The frequent bathroom trips, a result of the pressure she felt on her bladder, were another source of embarrassment and anxiety, especially during long commutes.

She started to feel fatigued all the time. The morning runs she loved became a chore, and she would often fall asleep on the couch as soon as she got home. A visit to her family doctor for a routine check-up led to a blood test, which revealed she was anemic. The doctor told her it was likely due to the heavy bleeding, but it didn’t explain the constant pain and pressure. Bani, like many women, felt her concerns were being brushed aside. She was told to take iron supplements and “just manage” her pain.

After months of this, and a particularly excruciating period that left her bedridden for three days, Bani decided to take matters into her own hands. She found a gynaecologist who specialised in women’s health issues and was willing to listen. She described her symptoms: the heavy bleeding, the debilitating pain, the constant need to urinate, and the persistent backache. After a thorough pelvic exam and an ultrasound, the gynaecologist finally connected all the dots. The diagnosis was uterine fibroids.

For many women, this is the story. The subtle, seemingly unrelated symptoms are dismissed as normal, a part of being a woman, which leads to a delay in diagnosis that can take many months and years. While precise data for India is scarce, studies suggest that uterine fibroids are a common gynaecological condition, with a prevalence that could be as high as 20-30% in women of reproductive age.

This page is dedicated to navigating uterine fibroids: what they are, their symptoms, potential causes, and the available treatments that can offer significant relief, just like Bani eventually found.

This infographic on uterine fibroids prevalence in India presents data on the prevalence of uterine fibroids and the age groups most affected by uterine fibroids. It uses a dark blue background with pink and white text and graphical elements. At the top, the title reads "Prevalence of Uterine Fibroids in India." Below this, two concentric circular speech bubble graphics display statistics: one shows that 37.65% of the rural population affected by uterine fibroids and 24% of the urban population with uterine fibroids are affected. Further down, a section titled "A Look at the Most Affected Age Group" features another similar graphic indicating that 24.08% of women aged 21-35 and 63.5% of women aged 36-50 are affected by uterine fibroids in women, with a central number 12.4% also labeled for the 21-35 age group. The graphic ends with the campaign message "STOP The Period Pain." Which is a knowledge initiative campaign by Blue Cross Laboratories the makers of meftal spas and a website URL www.painfulperiods.in, emphasizing awareness about uterine fibroid symptoms and the impact on women's reproductive health in India.

What are Uterine Fibroids?

Uterine fibroids (medically known as leiomyomas or myomas) are non-cancerous growths that develop from the muscle tissue of the uterus. They can range in size from tiny, almost undetectable seedlings to large, bulky masses that can change the shape and size of the uterus. They can cause a wide range of debilitating symptoms. Their size and location determine the symptoms they cause. Some women may have fibroids and never experience symptoms, while for others, they can significantly impact their quality of life.

Fibroids are classified by their location:

  • Submucosal fibroids: Grow into the uterine cavity.
  • Intramural fibroids: Grow within the muscular wall of the uterus.
  • Subserosal fibroids: Project to the outside of the uterus.
This educational infographic titled "Understanding Uterine Fibroids" visually compares a healthy uterus with a uterus affected by fibroids. On the left side, a happy, cartoon-style healthy uterus anatomy is shown with a smooth pink structure and symmetrical fallopian tubes and ovaries. The text explains that in a healthy uterus, the uterine lining grows inside the uterus and that ovaries release eggs regularly with each menstrual cycle. On the right side, a sad, cartoon fibroid uterus is depicted with multiple yellowish, textured growths on different parts of the uterus, indicating uterine fibroids. Blue teardrop shapes represent pelvic pain or menstrual discomfort. The accompanying text explains that the uterus is a smooth, muscular organ, and that fibroids are non-cancerous growths that cause various symptoms depending on their size and location. The image promotes fibroid awarenessThe graphic ends with the campaign message "STOP The Period Pain." Which is a knowledge initiative campaign by Blue Cross Laboratories the makers of meftal spas.

Uterine Fibroid Symptoms: Recognising the Red Flags

In India, period pain is often dismissed as a normal part of life or an inevitable aspect of being a woman. While this dismissal is common, it often leads to a dangerous disconnect. Seemingly unrelated symptoms, such as the fatigue from anemia or chronic backaches, are rarely attributed to the same underlying cause. This failure to connect the dots can significantly delay a proper diagnosis. Paying close attention to these red flags is crucial for taking control of your health.

Common Uterine Fibroids Symptoms

Painful Periods (Dysmenorrhea)

More than just a cramp, this is a deep, searing pain in the lower abdomen and back. It can be so severe that it interferes with your daily activities, leaving you bedridden or unable to concentrate.

Heavy or Prolonged Menstrual Bleeding (Menorrhagia)

Your periods may last longer than seven days or be so heavy that you need to change your pad or tampon more frequently than once every hour. This can lead to fatigue and anemia.

Pelvic Pressure or Pain

You may feel a persistent sense of fullness or heaviness in your pelvic area, almost as if you’re carrying a heavy stone.

Frequent Urination or Difficulty Emptying Your Bladder

Large fibroids can press on the bladder, making you feel like you constantly need to use the washroom, even right after you have just gone.

Backache or Leg Pains

Fibroids can press on nerves in your back, leading to a chronic, dull ache that can be mistaken for a normal back pain.

Pain During Intercourse

This can be a sign that fibroids are putting pressure on the cervix.

Constipation or Bloating

Large fibroids can put pressure on the rectum, leading to a feeling of bloating or difficulty with bowel movements.

This image is an informative graphic titled "Dismissal to Diagnosis: A Mother-Daughter Dialogue on Uterine Fibroids", designed to raise awareness about the symptoms of uterine fibroids and the frequent misdiagnosis of heavy menstrual bleeding. The top section features a conversation where Bani expresses concerns about her heavy periods, frequent urination, period-related fatigue, and anxiety about leaking during menstruation, especially before an upcoming work trip. Her mother dismisses the symptoms, attributing them to stress-related period issues, and suggests drinking less water. The bottom section shows a gynecologist explaining uterine fibroid symptoms, confirming that Bani's heavy menstrual bleeding, chronic fatigue, and bathroom urgency are interconnected signs of fibroids and recommends getting a proper diagnosis for uterine fibroids.The graphic ends with the campaign message "STOP The Period Pain." Which is a knowledge initiative campaign by Blue Cross Laboratories the makers of meftal spas and the URL www.painfulperiods.in, promoting fibroid awareness, menstrual health education, and the importance of early diagnosis of uterine fibroids.

Uterine Fibroids Causes: What We Know

While the exact cause of uterine fibroids isn’t fully known, research points to a combination of hormonal, genetic, and other factors. Here’s a breakdown of what scientists believe contributes to their growth:

  • Hormonal Factors

    The female hormones estrogen and progesterone play a key role. These are the same hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle and prepare the uterus for pregnancy. They appear to act as fuel for fibroids, stimulating their growth. This is why fibroids often shrink after menopause, when hormone levels drop.

  • Genetic Predisposition

    Fibroids often run in families, suggesting a strong genetic link. If your mother or a close relative has had fibroids, your risk of developing them is higher. This genetic connection is an area of ongoing research.

  • Other Growth Factors

    In addition to hormones, other substances in the body, such as insulin-like growth factors, may also promote the development of fibroids. These growth factors help the body’s tissues maintain and repair themselves, and in some cases, may contribute to abnormal growths like fibroids.

Diagnosing Uterine Fibroids: Seeking Answers

When you suspect you have uterine fibroids, the most crucial step is to consult a gynaecologist. They will take a detailed medical history and guide you through the diagnostic process. Unlike relying on guesswork or dismissing symptoms, a proper diagnosis provides clarity and a path to effective treatment. Here are the common methods used to get a clear picture:

Pelvic Exam

Your gynaecologist will perform a physical exam to check for any abnormalities in the shape and size of your uterus. This hands-on check-up is often the first step in identifying potential fibroids.

Ultrasound

This is the most common and effective diagnostic tool. A transabdominal or transvaginal ultrasound uses sound waves to create a detailed image of your uterus and ovaries. It can accurately reveal the presence, size, and precise location of fibroids, which is essential for determining the best treatment plan.

MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)

For more complex cases, an MRI scan may be used. This advanced imaging technique provides a detailed, cross-sectional map of the fibroids, which is especially useful for doctors when planning a surgical procedure.

Hysteroscopy

A hysteroscopy is a procedure where a thin, lighted telescope is inserted through the cervix into the uterus. This allows the doctor to directly visualise any fibroids growing inside the uterine cavity, providing a clear view of their size and location.

By combining these different diagnostic methods, your gynaecologist can make an accurate diagnosis and create a personalised treatment plan for you.

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Uterine Fibroid Treatment: Finding Your Path to Relief

While there is no definitive cure for uterine fibroids, a range of effective treatment options is available to help manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. The most suitable approach depends on your individual circumstances, including the size and location of your fibroids, your age, and whether you plan to have children in the future.

Your gynaecologist will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan, which may include one or more of the following options:

Medical Management

Medication

This is often the first line of defense. Hormonal birth control, such as pills or IUDs, can help regulate your menstrual cycles and reduce heavy bleeding. Your doctor might also prescribe medications that can temporarily shrink the fibroids.

Surgical Procedures

For more severe cases, surgical options can provide long-term relief.

Myomectomy

This is a surgical procedure to remove the fibroids while leaving the uterus intact. It is often the preferred option for women who wish to preserve their fertility and have children in the future.

Hysterectomy

This involves the surgical removal of the entire uterus. It is a definitive solution for fibroids but means a woman can no longer have children. This option is generally considered when other treatments are not effective or when the fibroids are very large or numerous.

Non-Surgical and Minimally Invasive Options

These procedures offer alternatives to traditional surgery.

Uterine Artery Embolization (UAE)

This is a minimally invasive procedure where a doctor blocks the blood supply to the fibroids. This causes them to shrink and die off. It is a highly effective, non-surgical option.

Lifestyle Interventions

While not a cure, lifestyle changes can significantly help in managing symptoms.

Diet and Exercise

Maintaining a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables and engaging in regular exercise can help manage symptoms and improve your overall well-being.

Uterine Fibroids Without Intervention: The Cost of Waiting

Uterine fibroids are a chronic condition that can progress over time. In India, where many women do not have access to specialised healthcare or are told to “manage” their pain, this can result in years of lost time, during which the disease can silently progress and become more difficult to manage.

Here’s a look at what can happen with no intervention:

Chronic Anemia and Fatigue

Heavy bleeding from fibroids can lead to severe iron-deficiency anemia, a condition common in India, especially among women. This leads to constant fatigue, making it difficult to perform daily tasks, work, or even focus. This isn’t just feeling tired; it’s a deep, persistent exhaustion that can go unaddressed for years.

Compromised Fertility

For many Indian women, the dream of motherhood is central to their lives. However, fibroids—especially those growing inside the uterus—can interfere with implantation and lead to infertility or miscarriage, causing immense emotional and social distress within families and communities.

Pressure on Organs

As fibroids grow, they can put pressure on nearby organs. This can lead to frequent urination from pressure on the bladder or constipation from pressure on the rectum. This constant need for a bathroom break, especially when you’re traveling, at the office, or visiting someone’s home, can become a source of significant anxiety and stress.

Impact on Quality of Life

The constant pain, heavy bleeding, and fatigue can take a significant toll on a woman’s confidence and self-esteem. For Bani, her battle with pain and bleeding led to feelings of deep anxiety and self-consciousness. She started to avoid social gatherings, family functions, and even work meetings, as she felt embarrassed and exhausted. Living with untreated symptoms can lead to chronic anxiety and depression, impacting not just a woman’s physical health but also her social life, career, and overall well-being—just as it did for Bani for a brief time, before she finally sought help.

The image is an informational graphic titled “The Hidden Cost of Uterine Fibroids.” It emphasizes that endometriosis is a progressive disease and, without intervention, leads to consequences beyond just pain. The graphic outlines three main "costs" associated with untreated uterine fibroids. Cost #1: A Few Years of Waiting describes how symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and discomfort worsen over time, potentially leading to iron-deficiency anemia, which affects energy levels and overall health. Cost #2: Many Years of Waiting highlights that uterine fibroids can grow larger, increasing the risk of chronic anemia, and causing fertility issues, reproductive health complications, and pressure on pelvic organs. Cost #3: Constant Ignorance warns that ignoring fibroid symptoms can result in chronic pelvic pain and depression, negatively impacting one’s mental health, social life, and career, referencing a person named Bani who experienced this before seeking help. The background image features a woman clutching her abdomen in discomfort, symbolizing painful periods and the emotional toll of fibroid-related health problems.The graphic ends with the campaign message "STOP The Period Pain." Which is a knowledge initiative campaign by Blue Cross Laboratories the makers of meftal spas along with the website www.painfulperiods.in, aiming to spread awareness about the early signs of fibroids, endometriosis treatment, and the importance of women's health awareness.

If you are diagnosed with PCOS, your gynaecologist may also check for other related conditions such as Endometriosis and Adenomyosis, as these conditions can sometimes coexist or share similar symptoms. We also have a dedicated guide on Uterine Fibroids.

A pink, cartoon-style illustration of a uterus with PCOS showing a sad facial expression and teardrops under its eyes, symbolizing discomfort. Both ovaries are depicted with multiple small ovarian cysts, representing Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. The right ovary (on the left side of the image) has 5 visible cysts, and the left ovary (on the right side) has 6 cysts. Wavy lines and lightning bolt symbols near the lower part of the uterus suggest pelvic pain or cramping, common symptoms of PCOS in women. The background features a soft pink watercolor texture. At the top, bold text reads: “PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)”. Below, in smaller text: “Cysts on ovaries prevent them from regularly releasing eggs,” indicating irregular periods and potential fertility issues due to PCOS. At the bottom right corner, a logo says “Stop the Period Pain” with a pink speech bubble icon. The website “**www.painfulperiods.in**” is written in pink in the bottom left corner. The graphic portrays the campaign message "STOP The Period Pain." Which is a knowledge initiative campaign by Blue Cross Laboratories the makers of meftal spas.
Illustration highlighting endometriosis symptoms and painful periods. The central image is a cartoon-style female reproductive system showing the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes, with a sad facial expression, teary eyes, and red marks indicating pelvic pain. Dark red patches representing endometrial tissue growth outside the uterus are visible on the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries—depicting a classic case of endometriosis disease. Pain indicators like squiggly lines and "Zzz" marks surround the uterus to emphasize chronic period pain. At the top, the text reads: “Endometriosis” in bold pink letters, followed by a description in black italics: “Tissue similar to the uterine lining abnormally grows outside the uterus.” At the bottom right, there's a pink speech bubble with the words “Stop the Period Pain,” supporting awareness for severe menstrual cramps and period pain treatment. Bottom left includes the website link: www.painfulperiods.in. The background is a soft pink watercolor texture, maintaining a gentle and supportive tone. The graphic portrays the campaign message "STOP The Period Pain." Which is a knowledge initiative campaign by Blue Cross Laboratories the makers of meftal spas.
Illustration depicting adenomyosis, a condition where the uterine lining abnormally grows into the muscle wall of the uterus, leading to severe menstrual pain and other adenomyosis symptoms. The background features a soft pink watercolor texture. At the top, the word "Adenomyosis" appears in bold pink text, followed by a description in black italicized font that reads, "Uterine lining abnormally grows into the muscle wall of the uterus." The central cartoon-style image shows a pink uterus with a sad facial expression, tears near the fallopian tubes, and red spots on the upper right side representing abnormal tissue growth. Wavy red and black lines around the uterus symbolize cramps and pelvic pain, common in painful periods caused by adenomyosis. The uterus has arms that are holding the ovaries, which also appear distressed. At the bottom left is the website "www.painfulperiods.in," and in the bottom right corner, a pink speech bubble appears next to the phrase "Stop the Period Pain" in bold pink text, highlighting a call to action for those suffering from chronic period pain and seeking help for their uterine health. The graphic portrays the campaign message "STOP The Period Pain." Which is a knowledge initiative campaign by Blue Cross Laboratories the makers of meftal spas.
An illustrated educational graphic about uterine fibroids, a common cause of painful periods. The background is pink with a soft watercolor texture. At the top, bold pink text reads "Uterine Fibroids", followed by black italic text saying, "Non-cancerous growths in the uterus that develop within or on the uterine walls." Below the text is a cartoon-style illustration of a uterus with a sad face, eyes shut tight, and tears coming from both eyes, indicating severe menstrual cramps and pelvic pain. The uterus is depicted in pink with fallopian tubes and ovaries on each side. Multiple yellowish, bumpy fibroid tumors in uterus are shown growing on various parts of the uterus, including inside and on its outer wall. Zigzag lines around the uterus represent period pain and discomfort. In the bottom right corner, pink text says, "Stop the Period Pain" next to a speech bubble icon. In the bottom left corner, the website "www.painfulperiods.in" is displayed, suggesting a resource for information on uterine fibroids treatment and relief from painful menstruation. The graphic portrays the campaign message "STOP The Period Pain." Which is a knowledge initiative campaign by Blue Cross Laboratories the makers of meftal spas.

Hope and Support: Tackling Uterine Fibroids In India

Just like Bani, who found relief and a renewed sense of well-being after her diagnosis and treatment, there is hope for managing uterine fibroids and living a full and active life. Navigating a uterine fibroids diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but a proactive approach and a strong support system can make all the difference. Here are some actionable steps for your journey to well-being:

Be Your Own Advocate

It’s crucial to advocate for yourself. Go to your appointment prepared with a detailed log of your symptoms, including the frequency and severity of your pain and bleeding. Don’t hesitate to ask specific questions about the diagnosis and treatment options. If you’re not satisfied with the answers, a second opinion from another gynaecologist is a right you should exercise.

Find a Gynaecologist Who Specialises in Fibroids

Not all doctors have the same expertise. Seek out a gynaecologist who has a known specialisation in managing gynaecological conditions like fibroids. They can offer a wider range of modern treatment options, including minimally invasive procedures, and a personalised plan that considers your desire for future pregnancies.

Living with uterine fibroids can be challenging, but remember that you are not alone. Seeking support from healthcare professionals, family, friends, and support groups can make a significant difference in your journey.

Your Journey to Knowledge, One Story at a Time

Transform your understanding of Uterine Fibroids through engaging and informative stories based on real medical insights.

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The Answers You've Been Looking For

Get clear, concise answers to your most pressing questions about Uterine Fibroids.

Your Journey to #StopThePeriodPain Starts Here

Every month, millions of Indian girls & women suffer in silence, told that their severe period pain (dysmenorrhea) is “normal.” Our mission is to break that silence. #StopThePeriodPain campaign is here to empower you with 3 simple truths:

References:

  1. International Journal of Reproduction, Contraception, Obstetrics and Gynecology – Prevalence of Fibroids
  2. Prevalence of Risk Factors for Uterine Fibroids at Tertiary Care Teaching Hospital: A Cross-sectional Study
  3. International Journal of Reproduction, Contraception, Obstetrics and Gynecology -Epidemiological Study of Uterine Fibroids
  4. Key Practice Points on Fibroids 2019 Indian Perspective
  5. Hindustan Times – Doctor shares how he saved 28-year-old woman from severe pelvic pain by removing 1.2 kg uterine fibroid in rare surgery
  6. The Indian Express – A 20-year-old had uterine fibroids: Yes, they can happen but still be managed
  7. Times of India – Venus Williams was told her uterine fibroid symptoms were ‘normal’—here’s what she wants you to know
  8. The Week – Why are Indian women developing fibroids at a young age?
  9. The Times of India – Bengaluru woman ignores abdominal pain for 6 months, goes under knife for 7.4kg uterine fibroid
  10. The Hindu – Non-surgical treatment for uterine fibroids possible now, says doctor
  11. Research Gate – Prevalence of fibroids: a study in a semiurban area in Telangana, India