How do I manage fibroid symptoms?

Bottom lineManage fibroid symptoms based on what they cause: for heavy or painful periods, anti-inflammatory pain relievers, tranexamic acid, or hormonal options like the pill or a hormonal IUD help, while larger or troublesome fibroids may need medicines that shrink them, embolization, or surgery; support yourself with iron-rich foods and symptom tracking, and see a clinician for very heavy periods, pelvic pressure, or fertility concerns.

Uterine fibroids are common, non-cancerous growths. Many cause no symptoms and need no treatment, but when they cause heavy periods, pain, or pressure, several options can help - chosen based on your symptoms, fibroid size, and whether you want to preserve fertility.

For heavy or painful periods

• Anti-inflammatory pain relievers and tranexamic acid can reduce bleeding and pain
• Hormonal options - the combined pill, progestogen, or a hormonal IUD - can lighten periods
• Treating heavy bleeding also helps prevent anemia - ask about an iron check

Medical and procedural options

• Medicines that shrink fibroids or reduce bleeding may be used short-term
• Procedures like uterine artery embolization or surgery (myomectomy to remove fibroids, or hysterectomy in some cases) treat larger or more troublesome fibroids

Self-care alongside treatment

• Manage period symptoms with heat, rest, and pain relief
• Eat iron-rich foods if periods are heavy
• Keep tracking your bleeding and symptoms

When to see a doctor

See a clinician for very heavy periods, pelvic pain or pressure, frequent urination, a swollen abdomen, or fertility concerns. Treatment is tailored to you.

See what are uterine fibroids for background.

Femora helps you track bleeding and symptoms so you and your clinician can judge how fibroids are affecting you.