Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths in the uterus. They’re incredibly common, affecting up to 80% of women by the time they reach 50 years old.
While fibroids aren’t a digestive issue, they can cause gastrointestinal problems, including bloating. So, can fibroids cause bloating? Yes, they can. Because fibroids can grow quite large, some people experience bloating as a result of their size. Other times, bloating may be a side effect of other symptoms caused by fibroids.
Let’s take a closer look at the connection between fibroids and bloating, what causes it, and what you can do about it.
What are uterine fibroids?
Uterine fibroids are noncancerous tumors that grow in the uterus. Depending on their location, they’re classified as one of three types:
- Submucosal fibroids grow in the lining of the uterus.
- Intramural fibroids grow in the muscular wall of the uterus.
- Subserosal fibroids grow on the outside of the uterus.
The type of fibroid you have, along with its size, can determine what kinds of symptoms you have and how severe those symptoms are.
Uterine fibroids are very common, especially among women in their reproductive years. Risk factors include being over 40, having a family history of fibroids, being Black, and having obesity.
How Fibroids Can Lead to Bloating
While not everyone with fibroids experiences bloating, it’s definitely a symptom worth exploring, especially if you’re already dealing with other fibroid-related issues. Let’s break down how these growths can actually cause that uncomfortable, swollen feeling.
Pressure on the Digestive System
Imagine a large fibroid pressing against your intestines or stomach. It’s like having an unwanted guest taking up space and disrupting the normal flow of things. These fibroids, especially those closer to your digestive tract, can put significant pressure on your intestines. This pressure can throw off your bowel function, making it harder to digest food properly, which can lead to gas and bloating.
The pressure doesn’t just affect your intestines; it can also impact your stomach. You might find yourself feeling full faster than usual, even after eating just a small amount. This feeling of fullness, combined with the discomfort of bloating, can really put a damper on your day.
Constipation and Reduced Bowel Motility
Fibroids can also cause constipation by physically compressing your colon or rectum. Think of it like a kink in a hose – the flow is restricted, and things back up. When you’re constipated, stool and gas build up in your intestines, leading to that familiar bloated sensation.
Impact on Pelvic Blood Flow
Fibroids can also mess with the blood flow in your pelvic region, and this can indirectly affect your digestive system. When blood flow is altered, it can impair nutrient absorption and other digestive processes. When your digestive system doesn’t have the blood flow it needs, it won’t perform at its best. As a result, you may experience bloating, discomfort, and other digestive issues.
What other digestive symptoms can fibroids cause?
Fibroids can push on other organs and structures in the abdomen, causing a range of gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms. Some people experience:
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea
- Changes in appetite
Fibroids can also press on the bladder, leading to frequent urination or difficulty emptying the bladder completely.
In rare cases, fibroids near the digestive tract can cause GI bleeding.
How to tell if fibroids are to blame
It can be tricky to pinpoint the cause of bloating. Here are some strategies that can help you determine whether fibroids are the likely culprit.
Keep a symptom journal
Keeping track of your symptoms and noting when they occur can help you spot patterns. Make note of how bloated you feel, when the bloating occurs, and any other symptoms that happen at the same time.
Talk to your gynecologist
Your gynecologist can perform a thorough exam and order tests to determine whether fibroids are to blame. A pelvic exam, ultrasound, MRI, and blood tests can help confirm the diagnosis and rule out other potential causes of your bloating.
Ruling out other conditions is an important step in getting an accurate diagnosis.
Think about other medical conditions
Bloating can be caused by so many different things, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), food sensitivities, and hormonal imbalances, so it’s important to explore all possible causes with your doctor.
Managing Bloating Associated with Fibroids
If fibroids are causing you to feel bloated, there are a few things you can try to manage the discomfort.
Dietary Modifications
Certain foods are known to produce gas, so you might want to limit the amount of beans, broccoli, and carbonated drinks you’re consuming. Also, try to increase the amount of fiber in your diet to keep your bowel movements regular and prevent constipation, which can make bloating worse. It’s also a good idea to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Lifestyle Adjustments
Regular exercise can improve your digestion and help reduce bloating, as can stress management techniques like yoga or meditation. Stress can make digestive symptoms worse, so finding ways to relax can be beneficial.
Medical Treatments
There are also medical treatments for fibroids that can indirectly help with bloating. Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) is a non-surgical option that can shrink fibroids. For severe cases, surgical options like myomectomy (removing the fibroids) or hysterectomy (removing the uterus) may be considered.
Summary
Uterine fibroids can cause bloating and other digestive problems. Fibroids can press on organs near the uterus, causing discomfort, and they can also change how blood flows in the abdomen.
If you’re experiencing bloating or other digestive issues, it’s important to see a doctor to find out what’s causing them. A medical evaluation can determine whether fibroids are contributing to your symptoms and help you decide on the best course of action.
Lifestyle changes and medical treatments can relieve fibroid-related bloating and improve your overall well-being.