Do fibroids cause stomach pain?

Written by Wang Jing Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on September 08, 2024
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Uterine fibroids, if merely present and not too large, generally do not cause abdominal pain. If there are symptoms of abdominal pain, it is necessary to check whether there is pelvic inflammatory disease by examining if there is tenderness in the uterus and adnexal areas. Uterine fibroids, if accompanied by adenomyosis, can also cause abdominal pain, particularly progressive dysmenorrhea symptoms. Therefore, if there is abdominal pain, it is essential to first perform an ultrasound to understand the specifics of the uterine fibroids, whether there are other masses in the pelvic area that might be twisted, and also to check for inflammation, the presence of an intrauterine device, etc.

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Written by Sun Shan Shan
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Uterine fibroids are classified into several types.

Uterine fibroids are classified by location into two types: myometrial fibroids and cervical fibroids. Based on the relationship between the uterine fibroids and the muscular wall, there are three kinds of uterine fibroids: intramural fibroids, subserosal fibroids, and submucosal fibroids. Intramural fibroids, primarily located within the uterine wall and enclosed by a muscular layer, are recommended for surgical treatment once the fibroid's diameter exceeds four centimeters, as they tend to grow rapidly. Similarly, subserosal fibroids grow towards the peritoneal surface of the uterus and are on the exterior of the uterus. If subserosal fibroids also exceed four centimeters in diameter and are accompanied by menstrual changes, surgical treatment is advised. Furthermore, submucosal fibroids, regardless of their size, require timely surgical intervention due to their association with heavy bleeding and a high risk of anemia.

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Written by Hou Jie
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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How to recuperate from uterine fibroids?

Uterine fibroids are the most common benign tumors of the female reproductive organs, composed of smooth muscle and connective tissue. Treatment varies depending on the patient's age, childbearing requirements, presence of symptoms, location and size of the fibroids, and their number. For asymptomatic fibroids, treatment is generally not necessary, especially for women nearing menopause. After menopause, fibroids often shrink or gradually disappear. In such cases, it is recommended to follow up every three to six months, or consider pharmaceutical treatment. Medication is suitable for those with mild symptoms, near menopausal age, or those who are not suitable for surgery. If there are complications such as heavy menstrual bleeding, resulting anemia, ineffective drug treatment, severe abdominal pain, or conditions like fibroid torsion or acute abdomen, surgical treatment is recommended.

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Written by Li Shun Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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How to check for uterine fibroids?

Uterine fibroids can primarily be diagnosed through ultrasound and gynecological examinations. Uterine fibroids are relatively easy to diagnose; an ultrasound can reveal irregular masses on the uterus or solid echoes, with a fairly intact capsule, which could be either solitary or multiple, confirming the presence of uterine fibroids. During a gynecological examination, an irregular uterine shape with localized protrusions can be felt, which are fairly mobile and typically not associated with significant pain, further confirming the presence of uterine fibroids.

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Written by Li Shun Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Malignant symptoms of uterine fibroids

If uterine fibroids become malignant, they can increase significantly in size in a short period. Patients may feel a lump in the abdomen, and this lump grows rapidly and is tender to pressure. Additionally, there may be symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, prolonged menstrual periods, and irregular vaginal bleeding, as well as pain in the lower abdomen. Other symptoms include compression effects such as frequent urination, urgency to urinate, and difficulty defecating. Therefore, it is necessary to re-examine uterine fibroids every six months to a year. If uterine fibroids are found to be growing rapidly, timely surgical treatment should be conducted to prevent malignant transformation.

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Written by Liu Jian Wei
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Does uterine fibroids require the removal of the uterus?

Whether a hysterectomy is needed for uterine fibroids depends on the specific circumstances of the patient. If the fibroids are large and numerous, making the preservation of the uterus unnecessary, then a hysterectomy can be considered. Additionally, the decision should take into account the patient's age, reproductive desires, and personal preference. If the patient is older, has no desire for children, and wishes to have a hysterectomy, then it is feasible to remove the uterus under these circumstances. However, if the patient's condition does not mandate the removal of the uterus, the decision should be made in conjunction with the patient's wishes.