Types of Uterine Fibroids
Back and leg pain is most common with Subserosal uterine fibroids, which grow on the outside of the uterus. If the fibroid is located on the back of the uterus, it is very close to the spinal column. If it becomes large enough it can press on or pinch the nerves in that area, causing lower back pain. It can also cause sciatica as the fibroid presses against the sciatic nerve and sends pain down the back of the legs.
Sometimes, uterine fibroids may cause a feeling of pressure of fullness in the pelvic area. Other symptoms may include pelvic pain, frequent urination, pain during intercourse, enlargement of the lower abdomen, constipation, or back pain.
A scan revealed large fibroids that made my uterus = to an 18-week pregnancy. One doctor said a fibroid was causing my urethra to kink, which led to urinary retention. I had uterine fibroid embollisation (UFE) in December, but it did not shrink the fibroids enough. Apparently, I still have one pressing n my bladder. I do not have any complaints about my periods, which is what most women with fibroids complain about (although my fibroids are subserosal).
Clearly, the fibroids/my bulky uterus was at a minimum contributing to my bladder problems. I am by no means back to normal, but I have not curled up in the fetal position and cried from pain and discomfort since the surgery. I'm so sorry that you are going through what you are with your back and bladder.
How Fibroids Contributes to Heavy Bleeding (Menorrhagia) There are several theories to explain how fibroids contribute to menorrhagia. One explanation suggests that submucosal fibroids (located within the uterine cavity) enlarges the surface area of the endometrium (uterine lining), which may be a cause of heavy menstrual bleeding.
A normal menstrual cycle (period) usually occurs monthly every 25-31 days and lasts from 3-7 days. The total blood loss is on average 30mL (2-3 tablespoons), but is no more than 80mL. A normal sized uterus usually weighs 1-2 ounces (50-75 grams) and is not bigger than a peach.
If uterine fibroids are in the area of the uterus close to the cervix, penetration during intercourse can cause extreme discomfort. Decrease in Libido Experiencing such pain can seriously impact your desire for intimacy, as well as your enjoyment of sex when it happens.
Uterine fibroids can be microscopic in size, or grow up to several inches across and weigh tens of pounds. There are four different types of uterine fibroids: Myometrial or intramural fibroids- Myometrial fibroids grow in the muscular wall of the uterus.
While uterine fibroids can cause a variety of symptoms, they may not cause any symptoms at all. However, the most common symptoms of fibroid disease is pelvic pain and pressure. The short list below outlines some of the most common complaints of women with these symptoms.
These uterine fibroids usually originate as intramural fibroids, meaning between the muscles of the uterus, and gradually grow towards the endometrial cavity. Sometimes submucosal fibroids may be attached to the uterus by means of a long stalk. Such fibroids tumors are called pedunculated submucosal fibroids.
A subserosal fibroid is an abnormal but benign (non-cancerous) growth that develops on the outer wall of a woman's uterus. It is one of the several types of leiomyomas; fibroids are also referred to as leiomyomas. Unlike submucosal fibroids that impair fertility, subserosal fibroids usually do not interfere with a woman's fertility potential.