Most fibroids, even large ones, produce no symptoms at all. When symptoms occur, they often include:
- Changes in menstruation. Periods may become heavier, last longer and come more frequent. Menstrual pains (cramps) may be present and anemia may be the result of blood loss.
- Pain. Patients may experience a low dull pressure in the abdomen. The pain may also focus at the lower back. The pain can vary in severity and occasionally it may become sharp. Some patients may experience pain during intercourse.
- Pressure symptoms. If fibroids are large and press the bladder, then patients may experience frequency and difficulty in urination. Similarly, if fibroids press the bowel, patients may complain for constipation, rectal pain, or difficult bowel movements.
- Miscarriages and infertility. When other causes of miscarriage and infertility have been excluded, fibroids may be considered that contribute to some extent, to these problems.