The severity of stomach pain caused by fibroids can range from minor to severe and persistent. You may feel it during sexual intercourse, bowel movements, periods, exercise, or at any moment.
Fibroids are muscular tumors that form in the uterine (womb) wall. They are noncancerous growths that frequently arise during the reproductive years. They can form a single tumor or several tumors in the uterus, ranging in size from an apple seed to a grapefruit. Some women with fibroids have no symptoms, but others may struggle to manage their symptoms.
According to the Journal of Women's Health, 25 to 50% of women with fibroids experience symptoms such as heavy menstruation, reproductive problems, increased urine frequency, anemia, and abdominal pain.
Causes of fibroids
Before we go into fibroid pain relief, let us first discuss the causes of fibroids. These benign tumors form on the uterine linings or walls. Though no single cause has been thoroughly identified, there may be several variables that contribute to the formation of fibroids. Some of these criteria include:
- Obesity: Excess body fat increases the body's estrogen levels. Obese women are more likely to get fibroids.
- Hormonal imbalance: It has been shown that fibroids have more estrogen and progesterone receptors than normal uterine muscle cells, raising the hypothesis that these hormones play a role in fibroids' growth and development. Age, pregnancy, and specific medicines can all have an impact on the amounts of these hormones, which in turn affects how quickly fibroids grow.
- Family History: Women with a family history of fibroids are more likely to develop their fibroids. This shows that fibroids may be caused by genetics or a hereditary element.
- Age: Age is also an important aspect. Fibroids are more common in females approaching menopause, indicating that women aged 45 to 55 are more prone to fibroids.
Why do women suffer abdominal pain due to fibroids?
Fibroids can cause women to have stomach pain for a variety of reasons. It primarily depends on its location, size, and the number of fibroids present. Fibroids typically grow large, exerting strain on adjacent organs and causing significant stomach pain. They can overrun their blood supply network, causing tissue degeneration or breakdown. The discomfort is most intense during the menstrual cycle, resulting in excessive bleeding and a painful abdomen.
However, keep in mind that fibroids aren't the sole cause of abdominal pain. Indigestion or constipation are possible causes. So, check to see if that is the situation with you.
Tips to manage abdominal pain due to fibroids
Here are five tips to manage fibroid pain:
1. Heating pad
Fibroids produce inflammation, which can immobilize the area, and applying a heating pad to the lower abdomen can assist relieve pain by encouraging movement. It relaxes stiff muscles and relieves cramps.
2. Eat a balanced diet
A well-balanced diet is vital for reducing inflammation, which in turn reduces pain. Eating plenty of cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cabbage, as well as fruits like apples and tomatoes, may help lower your risk of developing fibroids. Increase your consumption of protein, whole grains, and vitamin D. In addition, avoid processed meals, red meat, and foods high in dairy and sugar to prevent the fibroids from worsening.
3. Relaxing techniques
Stress is one element that may exacerbate the pain associated with fibroids. Certain relaxation techniques, such as yoga, meditation, massage, and acupuncture, can help with pain management. For further pain relief, lie on your side with your legs close to your chest.
4. Avoid alcohol
Alcohol use can exacerbate the severity and duration of typical fibroid symptoms. As a result, lowering your alcohol intake may help you deal with some of the more severe fibroid symptoms.
5. Painkiller
To alleviate the shooting pain, your doctor may recommend using an over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication (NSAID) such as ibuprofen or naproxen. NSAIDs can also reduce fibroids-induced heavy menstrual flow.
