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Expert health insights from the board-certified interventional radiologists and minimally invasive specialists at Georgia Endovascular.

Here's What it Looks Like to Have a Period with Fibroids

Published on May 01, 2024

Have you ever wondered what it's like to have a period with fibroids? Well, these benign uterine tumors can lead to symptoms such as heavy menstrual periods are often one of the first symptoms and more. So, what warning signs should you be searching for? Keep reading to find out!

women holding a wrapped sanitary napkin

Note the Changes in a Period with Fibroids

A period with fibroids may result in a heavier flow. It could also last longer than the typical 5-7 days. Or, the flow could arrive more often than the average 28 days. Now, you may notice more changes in flow than just the volume of blood: when you have fibroids, you may pass clots during your period. And, while some clotting is normal during your menstrual cycle, you should tell your doctor if any of the clots are larger than the size of a quarter.

Other Period Changes Due to Fibroids

When you have fibroids, your period may result in painful cramping or pain in your pelvis. Additionally, symptoms may not be limited to that time of the month. In fact, fibroids can cause a wide range of symptoms including bloating, back pain, frequent urination, constipation, pain with sex and more.

Unfortunately, many women ignore these changes to their cycle, believing them to be part of the normal aging process. And, in many cases, that results in a delayed fibroids diagnosis. (Not to mention months spent suffering when relief was available, often without surgery!)

Fibroid Relief in Georgia

When you know what to expect from a period with fibroids, it's easier for you to seek earlier relief for these uterine tumors. And, when you do that, you're more likely to receive a diagnosis when you have smaller or fewer tumors. The result? You're more likely to find symptom relief with less invasive procedures such as Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE.)

During this interventional radiology procedure, doctors make a small opening, usually in the wrist, to a catheter to access the uterine artery with the help of x-ray guidance. Once placed properly, we deposit embolic material that reduces the flow of blood to the artery, causing the fibroids to shrink due to lack of access to oxygen-rich blood. Afterward, you should experience significant symptom relief. And, you'll have been able to avoid surgery and preserve your uterus!

Want to learn more about minimally invasive UFE in Georgia? Hoping to see if you're a candidate for this procedure? Simply click here to request an appointment today!

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