7 Warning Signs of Uterine Fibroids Every Woman in Fort Worth Should Know
Heavy periods. Constant pelvic pressure. Frequent trips to the bathroom.
Many women dismiss these symptoms as normal hormonal changes — but they can actually be warning signs of uterine fibroids, a very common condition affecting millions of women.
According to the Office on Women’s Health, up to 80% of women develop uterine fibroids by age 50.
Yet many women go undiagnosed for years.
For women in Fort Worth, TX, and the greater Dallas–Fort Worth area, recognizing fibroid symptoms early can help them access effective treatment options — including uterine fibroid embolization (UFE), a minimally invasive alternative to surgery.
What Are the Warning Signs of Uterine Fibroids?
The most common warning signs of uterine fibroids include:
- Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
- Pelvic pain or pressure
- Frequent urination
- Constipation or bloating
- Abdominal swelling
- Pain during intercourse
- Difficulty getting pregnant
Women experiencing these symptoms should consider consulting a fibroid specialist in Fort Worth to evaluate whether uterine fibroids treatment may be needed.
What Are Uterine Fibroids?
Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus. They are made of smooth muscle cells and fibrous tissue and can vary greatly in size.
Fibroids may be:
- As small as a seed
- As large as a grapefruit
- Single or multiple
Fibroids typically develop during a woman’s reproductive years and often shrink after menopause.
Types of Uterine Fibroids
| Fibroid Type | Location | Common Symptoms |
|---|---|---|
| Submucosal | Inside the uterine cavity | Heavy bleeding, fertility issues |
| Intramural | Within the uterine wall | Pelvic pressure, bloating |
| Subserosal | Outside the uterus | Bladder pressure, back pain |
| Pedunculated | Attached by a stalk | Pelvic pain |
The location and size of fibroids determine the symptoms a woman experiences.
Why Fibroids Often Go Undiagnosed
Many fibroid symptoms overlap with other conditions. Women often attribute symptoms to:
- Hormonal changes
- Stress
- Digestive problems
- Urinary infections
- Because of this, fibroids may remain undiagnosed for years.
- Diagnostic tests that confirm fibroids include:
- Pelvic ultrasound
- MRI imaging
- Pelvic exam
If you suspect fibroids, consulting a fibroid doctor in Fort Worth can help determine the right treatment plan.
7 Warning Signs of Uterine Fibroids Explained
1. Heavy or Prolonged Menstrual Bleeding
Heavy menstrual bleeding is one of the most common fibroid symptoms.
Signs include:
- Periods lasting longer than 7 days
- Changing pads or tampons every 1–2 hours
- Passing large blood clots
- Fatigue caused by anemia
- Fibroids that grow inside the uterine cavity often cause this symptom.
2. Pelvic Pressure or Chronic Pain
Fibroids can cause a persistent feeling of heaviness in the lower abdomen.
Symptoms may include:
- Pelvic pain
- Lower back pain
- Pressure in the abdomen
- Pain during activity
- Large fibroids may press on nearby organs, creating constant discomfort.
3. Frequent Urination
Fibroids that press against the bladder can cause:
- Frequent urination
- Urgent need to urinate
- Difficulty emptying the bladder
Many women notice bladder symptoms improve after uterine fibroid embolization.
4. Constipation or Digestive Pressure
Fibroids can also press on the rectum or bowel.
Symptoms may include:
- Constipation
- Bloating
- Rectal pressure
- Difficulty with bowel movements
These symptoms are often mistaken for digestive issues.
5. Abdominal Enlargement
Large fibroids may cause visible abdominal swelling.
Women sometimes notice:
- Tight clothing around the waist
- Persistent bloating
- A firm lower abdomen
In severe cases, fibroids can make the abdomen appear pregnant.
6. Pain During Sex
Fibroids near the cervix or uterine wall may cause:
- Pain during intercourse
- Pelvic pressure
- Cramping afterward
- Painful intercourse is a symptom many women hesitate to discuss but is common with fibroids.
7. Fertility Problems
Certain fibroids may interfere with fertility.
They can:
- Distort the uterine cavity
- Block fallopian tubes
- Prevent embryo implantation
Women experiencing infertility may benefit from evaluation by a fibroid specialist.
When to See a Fibroid Specialist in Fort Worth
You should consult a fibroid doctor if you experience:
- Heavy periods lasting longer than a week
- Persistent pelvic pain
- Frequent urination
- Abdominal swelling
- Pain during intercourse
- Fertility challenges
Early diagnosis often allows access to minimally invasive fibroids treatment options.
Uterine Fibroid Treatment Options
Several treatments are available depending on fibroid size, location, and symptoms.
| Treatment | Type | Recovery |
|---|---|---|
| Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) | Minimally invasive | 1–2 weeks |
| Myomectomy | Surgical | 2–4 weeks |
| Hysterectomy | Major surgery | 4–6 weeks |
| Medication | Hormonal | Temporary relief |
What Is Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)?
Uterine fibroid embolization is a minimally invasive treatment that shrinks fibroids by blocking their blood supply.
The UFE procedure involves:
- A small catheter inserted through the wrist or groin
- Guided imaging to the uterine arteries
- Tiny particles injected to block blood flow to fibroids
Without blood supply, fibroids shrink and symptoms improve.
According to the Society of Interventional Radiology, about 90% of women experience significant symptom relief after UFE.
Tips for Women Concerned About Fibroids
If you suspect fibroids, consider these steps:
- Track your menstrual cycle
- Seek medical evaluation for persistent symptoms
- Request imaging such as ultrasound or MRI
- Maintain iron levels if experiencing heavy bleeding
- Explore all uterine fibroid treatment options before choosing surgery
Frequently Asked Questions about Fibroids
Are uterine fibroids cancerous?
No. Fibroids are benign growths and rarely become cancerous.
What doctor treats fibroids?
Fibroids may be treated by gynecologists or interventional radiologists who perform uterine fibroid embolization.
Is UFE treatment safe?
Yes. Fibroid embolization is a well-established minimally invasive treatment with a strong safety record.
How long does recovery take after the UFE procedure?
Most patients return to normal activities within 1–2 weeks.
Find Relief From Uterine Fibroids in Fort Worth
If fibroid symptoms are interfering with your daily life, a consultation with a fibroid specialist can help determine whether uterine fibroid embolization is right for you.
At Vascular Centers of Texas, our providers specialize in uterine fibroid embolization – a minimally invasive treatment designed to shrink fibroids and relieve symptoms without major surgery.
Our team helps women across Fort Worth, Houston, Beaumont, and the greater Dallas–Fort Worth area, explore safe, effective fibroid treatment options that preserve the uterus and allow for faster recovery.
Schedule a consultation today to learn more about your treatment options.
Call Us: (817) 214-3829
Take a quick UFE Quiz to see if uterine fibroid embolization may be right for you.