How to Manage Fibroid Pain Around Your Period

Up to 80% of women develop uterine fibroids by age 50. Some people never know they have them, while others experience a variety of uncomfortable symptoms.

If you experience intense cramping, heavy bleeding, or pelvic pressure that seems to get worse during your menstrual cycle, fibroids may be to blame — and treatment can help. 

Our team at North Atlanta OB/GYN helps you understand the cause of fibroid pain and how to manage it so you can feel more in control of your body and your monthly routine.

What are fibroids?

Fibroids, or uterine leiomyomas or myomas, are noncancerous growths on your uterus. They vary in size and location. Some women have no symptoms, but others experience significant issues. Fibroids most commonly affect women during their reproductive years.

The exact cause of fibroids isn’t fully understood, but hormones such as estrogen and progesterone likely play a role. Because of that, symptoms often change depending on your menstrual cycle and hormone levels.

Common symptoms of fibroids

Not all fibroids cause symptoms. When they do, they can lead to issues like:

• Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
• Severe menstrual cramps
• Pelvic pain or pressure
• Frequent urination
• Constipation
• Pain during sex
• Lower back pain

If you notice any of these symptoms, especially if they appear or get worse around your period, fibroids may be the underlying cause.

Why fibroid pain gets worse around your period

Symptomatic fibroids can cause discomfort anytime, but the pain often gets more intense during menstruation due to hormonal changes and physical activity in your uterus.

As your body sheds the uterine lining, contractions (cramps) help expel the tissue. If you have fibroids, these contractions can be more forceful or painful, especially if the fibroids are large or located in the muscle wall of your uterus.

Fibroids can also increase menstrual bleeding, leading to longer or heavier periods that make you feel exhausted and uncomfortable.

How to manage fibroid pain

Fibroid pain can disrupt your daily routine, particularly if it gets worse during your period. The good news is that it can be managed with self-care and, sometimes, medical support. We often recommend heat therapy, gentle exercise, and over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers first.

Heat therapy, like a heating pad or warm bath, can help relax your pelvic muscles and reduce the intensity of cramps. 

Staying active with gentle exercise like walking or yoga increases blood flow and may help relieve pain. 

OTC pain relievers, like ibuprofen, can reduce both inflammation and menstrual cramps to make symptoms more manageable.

It might also help to monitor your menstrual cycle. Consider keeping a journal of symptoms to spot patterns and prepare for flare-ups. Last but not least, drink plenty of water and avoid processed foods to help reduce bloating and discomfort.

When to talk to a doctor about fibroid pain

If your period pain is severe, interferes with your daily activities, or worsens over time, talk to a healthcare provider. Heavy periods and severe cramps aren’t normal, and treatment can help.

Our team can diagnose fibroids with a pelvic exam and imaging tests like an ultrasound. Once we have a diagnosis, we discuss your treatment options, including medication to shrink the fibroids, noninvasive procedures, and surgery in more severe cases.

You don’t have to live with fibroid pain. With the right care, you can manage your symptoms and get back to feeling like yourself — even during your period. Contact us online or call one of our offices in Alpharetta, Atlanta, and Marietta, Georgia, today to get started.