While many non-cancerous uterine tumors grow larger in size without treatment, some will start to shrink on their own due to fibroid degeneration. This often painful development occurs when a fibroid outgrows its current blood supply, often causing disruptive symptoms in the process. But what causes the fibroid to disintegrate and what can be done about the situation? Here's what you need to know.

Why do fibroids degenerate?

You may experience fibroid degeneration when your tumors:

• Experience rapid growth
• Reach a large size
• Outgrow their existing blood supply

Can a degenerating tumor relieve my fibroid symptoms?

Large uterine tumors can cause disruptive fibroid symptoms. As such, you might think that a shrinking fibroid would solve your problems. However, when a fibroid disintegrates due to loss of blood supply, it causes painful symptoms on its own, and can lead to further symptom development if it experiences regrowth.

How does it feel to have a fibroid degenerate?

Fibroid degeneration can cause bleeding, abdominal pain, chronic pelvic pain or it could even prolapse from the uterus. A disintegrating fibroid should not, however, be considered a medical emergency as it does not cause serious side effects such as heavy bleeding.

Can you prevent fibroids from degenerating?

If you hope to prevent fibroids from disintegrating, your best option is to seek early intervention so that tumors don't grow too large. Luckily, when your fibroids are still small, you can also enjoy a wider range of treatment options, including Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE). If you have been diagnosed with fibroids and want some treatment guidance, we're here to help. Simply request a consultation with our interventional radiologists in Georgia, and, together, we'll review your UFE candidacy.