Heavy menstrual bleeding can be a distressing symptom for many women, and one of the most common causes is uterine fibroids. These non-cancerous growths develop in the uterus and can vary in size, from small, undetectable nodules to large masses that distort the uterine shape. 

While some women experience no symptoms, others struggle with prolonged, excessive bleeding that disrupts their daily lives. The severity of bleeding depends on factors like fibroid location, size, and number. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to complications like anemia, fatigue, and severe pelvic pain. 

Understanding the causes of fibroid-related heavy bleeding and exploring effective treatment options—from medications to minimally invasive procedures and surgical solutions—can help women manage this condition and improve their quality of life.

What Are Uterine Fibroids?

Uterine fibroids are benign tumors that develop in the uterine wall. They consist of fibroid tissue, which grows abnormally due to hormonal influences. 

These growths vary in size, from small fibroids that remain undetectable to larger fibroids that distort the uterine cavity. The exact cause remains unclear, but fibroid growth is strongly linked to estrogen and progesterone levels.

There are three main types of fibroids:

• Submucosal fibroids – Located under the lining of the uterus, they intrude into the uterine cavity and are the most associated with heavy menstrual bleeding.
• Intramural fibroids – Found within the muscular uterine wall, these are the most common type and contribute to pelvic pain and abnormal uterine bleeding.
• Subserosal fibroids – Located outside the uterus, these can grow large and press on surrounding organs, causing pelvic pressure and discomfort.

How Common Are Fibroids?

Fibroids are extremely common among women of reproductive age.

Prevalence Among Women:

1. By Age: Studies suggest that up to 70–80% of women develop fibroids by age 50. However, many remain asymptomatic.
2. By Ethnicity: Fibroids are more prevalent among African-American women, who develop them at a younger age and with more severe symptoms.
3. Symptomatic Cases: Approximately 20–50% of women with fibroids experience symptoms, including heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and frequent periods.
4. Fibroids & Pregnancy: Around 10% of infertility cases are linked to fibroids impacting the uterine cavity.
5. Diagnosis: Many fibroids are found during routine pelvic exams or through ultrasound guidance.

Risk Factors for Fibroids

While the exact cause of fibroid tumors is unknown, several factors increase the risk:

• Age: More common in women aged 30–50 years.
• Genetics: Women with a family history are three times more likely to develop fibroids.
• Hormones: Fibroids grow in response to estrogen and progesterone, which regulate uterine lining thickening.
• Lifestyle Factors:
  • Obesity: Increases fibroid size due to higher estrogen production.
  • Diet: High red meat consumption is linked to larger fibroids, while a plant-based diet may help shrink fibroids.
  • Alcohol & Caffeine: Excessive intake may stimulate fibroid growth.
  • Birth Control Pills: Some hormonal contraceptives may affect fibroid symptoms.

Differences Between Fibroids and Other Causes of Heavy Periods

Fibroids are not the only cause of excessive bleeding. Other conditions like adenomyosis and PCOS share some symptoms but have different underlying causes.

Condition	Cause	Key Symptoms	Distinguishing Factor
Uterine Fibroids	Benign tumors in the uterine wall	Heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, frequent periods	Bleeding is linked to fibroid location and size
Adenomyosis	Uterine lining invades the muscle	Heavy periods, severe cramps, pain during sex	Diffuse thickening of the uterine wall
PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)	Hormonal imbalance affecting ovulation	Irregular periods, acne, weight gain	Often includes missed periods or long cycles

Why Do Fibroids Cause Heavy Bleeding?

Heavy menstrual bleeding is one of the most common symptoms of uterine fibroids. But why does it happen? The uterine wall plays a crucial role in controlling blood flow during menstruation. When fibroids grow, they interfere with this process, leading to abnormal uterine bleeding.

How Fibroids Affect Uterine Function

Fibroids impact the menstrual cycle in several ways:

• Increased Blood Supply: Fibroids tend to develop their own blood vessels, leading to excessive bleeding.
• Uterine Contractility Issues: The uterine muscle struggles to contract effectively, prolonging menstrual bleeding.
• Thicker Uterine Lining: Some fibroids grow under the lining of the uterus, increasing blood loss.

1. Role of Hormonal Imbalance

• Estrogen: Fuels fibroid growth, causing an overgrowth of the uterine lining.
• Progesterone: Affects blood vessel formation, influencing heavy bleeding severity.

2. Fibroid Location and Size Impact on Bleeding

• Submucosal fibroids cause the most severe heavy bleeding due to their proximity to the uterine cavity.
• Intramural fibroids disrupt the normal contraction of the uterine wall, leading to prolonged menstrual bleeding.

3. Connection Between Fibroids and Clotting Issues

Fibroids can also alter blood clotting, making periods heavier and prolonged. Women with fibroids may experience large clots during menstruation.

Impact of Fibroids on Blood Clotting	Explanation
Increased Surface Area for Shedding	Larger fibroids create more uterine lining, resulting in heavier blood flow.
Delayed Uterine Contractions	Weak contractions lead to excessive bleeding and difficulty expelling clots.
Hormonal Influence on Platelets	Estrogen dominance may impair normal blood clotting.

Treating Heavy Menstrual Bleeding Due to Fibroids

If heavy bleeding affects daily life, several treatment options can help:

• Pain medication – Over-the-counter drugs can help manage symptoms.
• Birth control pills – Can regulate menstrual bleeding.
• Intrauterine device (IUD) – Releases hormones to help treat fibroids and reduce blood flow.
• Endometrial ablation – A minimally invasive procedure to destroy the uterine lining.
• Uterine artery embolization (UAE) – Cuts off blood supply to fibroid tumors, causing them to shrink.
• Surgical treatment – Myomectomy or hysterectomy for severe cases.
• Radiofrequency ablation – Uses heat to shrink fibroids.

Early diagnosis through pelvic exams and ultrasound guidance can help women find the right approach to treat heavy menstrual bleeding and improve their quality of life.

Signs and Symptoms of Fibroids

Uterine fibroids can cause a range of symptoms, depending on their size, location, and number. While some women experience no symptoms, others struggle with heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and pressure symptoms. 

Among the most distressing issues are prolonged periods, blood clots, anemia, and urinary symptoms due to fibroid growth. Understanding these fibroid symptoms is crucial for seeking timely treatment and preventing complications.

Heavy and Prolonged Periods (Menorrhagia)

Heavy menstrual bleeding is one of the most common symptoms of symptomatic uterine fibroids. Women with large uterine fibroids often experience excessive bleeding, leading to abnormal uterine bleeding that lasts more than 7 days.

• How Fibroids Cause Heavy Bleeding
  Fibroids tend to increase blood supply to the uterine lining, preventing normal blood clotting and causing prolonged menstrual cycles.
• Role of Fibroid Location
  Submucosal fibroids, which grow inside the uterine cavity, interfere with the shedding of the uterine lining, making heavy bleeding more frequent.
• Signs That Bleeding is Abnormal
  Changing sanitary products every hour, passing large blood clots, or experience fatigue and dizziness may indicate severe blood loss due to fibroid growth.
• Associated Risks
  Untreated fibroid tumors can lead to iron deficiency anemia, requiring pain medication, iron supplements, or medical intervention to treat heavy menstrual bleeding.

Blood Clots During Periods: When Is It a Concern?

Passing small fibroids of coagulated blood is normal, but large clots (bigger than a quarter) may indicate abnormal bleeding.

• Why Do Fibroids Cause Blood Clots?
  Intramural fibroids can disrupt uterine contractions, leading to poor blood flow and clot formation.
• When to See a Doctor
  If clots are frequent and accompanied by sudden pain or pelvic pressure, it may signal fibroid tissue degeneration or another issue.
• Link to Clotting Disorders
  Some women with uterine fibroids heavy bleeding have underlying bleeding disorders, which can worsen fibroid symptoms.

Pelvic Pain, Pressure, and Bloating

Fibroid tumors can exert pressure on surrounding organs, leading to pelvic pain, bloating, and discomfort.

• How Location Affects Pain
  • Submucosal fibroids: Cause cramping and sharp pain due to their proximity to the uterine lining.
  • Intramural fibroids: Lead to heaviness and lower back pain by pressing against the uterine wall.
  • Larger fibroids: Can stretch the uterine cavity, causing pressure-related symptoms.
• Symptoms Worsen During Menstruation
  Pelvic pain intensifies when the uterine artery increases blood flow to the fibroids.

Urinary Symptoms: Frequent Urination Due to Fibroid Pressure

Women with fibroids that grow near the bladder may experience urinary urgency and frequent urination.

• Why Does This Happen?
  Larger fibroids can press against the bladder, reducing its capacity to hold urine.
• Symptoms to Watch For
  • Frequent urination (more than 8 times a day).
  • Difficulty emptying the bladder.
  • Urinary retention is caused by fibroid-induced compression.
• When It Becomes a Problem
  If urinary symptoms are accompanied by bleeding between periods or pelvic exam abnormalities, further ultrasound guidance is required.

Anemia and Fatigue Due to Excessive Blood Loss

Heavy menstrual bleeding from symptomatic uterine fibroids can result in severe blood loss, leading to iron deficiency anemia.

• Signs of Anemia
  • Fatigue and weakness
  • Shortness of breath
  • Pale skin
  • Frequent dizziness
• Long-Term Effects
  Untreated anemia increases the risk of heart palpitations and fainting episodes.
• Treatment Options
  • Iron supplements
  • Minimally invasive procedures like uterine artery embolization to shrink fibroids
  • Endometrial ablation to treat heavy menstrual bleeding

Diagnosis: How Are Fibroids and Heavy Bleeding Detected?

Diagnosing uterine fibroids heavy bleeding requires a combination of clinical examination, imaging tests, and blood work. Many women develop fibroids without realizing it until they experience symptoms like abnormal bleeding and pelvic pain.

Gynecological Examination and Patient History

A pelvic exam helps identify fibroid size, location, and tenderness.

• What the Doctor Asks
  • How many fibroids have you been diagnosed with?
  • Have you experienced sudden pain, frequent periods, or bleeding between periods?
  • Do you have a history of abnormal uterine bleeding or growth factors affecting fibroid development?
• Physical Findings
  • Enlarged uterus due to fibroid growth
  • Tender uterus if fibroids are pressing against nerves
  • Irregular shape caused by larger fibroids

Imaging Tests

Ultrasound – First-Line Diagnostic Tool

Ultrasound guidance is the most common non-invasive method to detect fibroid tumors.

• How It Works
  A transvaginal or abdominal ultrasound sends sound waves to capture an image of the uterine wall.
• What It Identifies
  • Fibroid size and position
  • Abnormal uterine bleeding patterns
  • Small fibroids that may not be felt during a pelvic exam

MRI Scan – More Detailed View of Fibroids

MRI provides a high-resolution image of fibroid tissue, making it useful for treatment planning.

• When is MRI Recommended?
  • Women with fibroids undergoing minimally invasive treatments like radiofrequency ablation.
  • If large uterine fibroids are suspected but ultrasound findings are unclear.

Hysteroscopy and Sonohysterography – For Internal Fibroid Detection

These procedures help visualize submucosal fibroids inside the uterine cavity.

• Hysteroscopy: A thin scope is inserted into the uterine cavity to inspect the lining of the uterus.
• Saline infusion sonogram: Uses ultrasound guidance to evaluate fibroid size and impact on the menstrual cycle.

Blood Tests to Check for Anemia and Hormonal Imbalance

Severe heavy bleeding can lead to low hemoglobin levels, increasing blood loss risks.

• Key Blood Markers
  • Iron levels – To assess anemia severity.
  • Hormone levels – To check for estrogen dominance, which stimulates fibroid growth.

Treatment Options for Heavy Bleeding Due to Fibroids

Managing heavy menstrual bleeding caused by uterine fibroids requires a personalized approach based on fibroid size, location, and symptoms. Some women with fibroids can control symptoms with medications, while others may need minimally invasive procedures to treat uterine fibroids effectively. 

Abnormal uterine bleeding, pelvic pain, and blood loss can severely impact daily life, making timely intervention essential. 

Treatment options range from hormonal methods that regulate the menstrual cycle to uterine artery embolization, which cuts off the fibroid’s blood supply. The right treatment depends on whether the goal is to reduce symptoms, shrink fibroids, or preserve fertility.

Medications for Fibroid-Related Bleeding

For many women with fibroids, medications help control heavy bleeding and ease fibroid symptoms. While medications don’t eliminate fibroids, they can manage common symptoms like excessive bleeding, pelvic pain, and frequent periods.

Birth Control Pills & IUDs: Reducing Bleeding but Not Shrinking Fibroids

Hormonal birth control pills and the intrauterine device (IUD) regulate the menstrual cycle, making periods lighter and more predictable.

• How It Works: Birth control pills contain estrogen and progesterone, which stabilize the lining of the uterus, reducing abnormal bleeding.
• Limitations: While they help treat heavy menstrual bleeding, they don’t shrink fibroids or eliminate fibroid tissue.
• IUD Option: A hormonal IUD like Mirena releases progestin, thinning the uterine lining, reducing blood flow, and sometimes stopping menstrual bleeding altogether.

Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH) Agonists: Temporary Relief but Side Effects

GnRH agonists like leuprolide (Lupron) temporarily shrink fibroids by lowering estrogen levels, causing a temporary menopause-like state.

• Pros: They provide short-term relief for women with fibroids before surgery.
• Cons: Symptoms return once treatment stops, and side effects like bone loss, hot flashes, and vaginal dryness can occur.

Tranexamic Acid & NSAIDs: Reducing Blood Loss During Periods

Non-hormonal treatments like tranexamic acid and NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen) help treat heavy menstrual bleeding by improving blood clotting and reducing inflammation.

• Tranexamic Acid: Works by stabilizing blood vessels, preventing excessive blood loss.
• NSAIDs: Reduce prostaglandins, which are linked to pain and excessive bleeding.

Iron Supplements for Anemia Prevention

Women experiencing chronic blood loss due to heavy bleeding are at risk of iron-deficiency anemia. Iron supplements help restore hemoglobin levels, reducing fatigue, dizziness, and shortness of breath.

Minimally Invasive Procedures

When medications fail, minimally invasive treatments provide effective relief without removing the uterus. These procedures focus on blocking blood flow to fibroids, reducing fibroid size, and treating abnormal uterine bleeding.

Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE): Blocking Blood Supply to Fibroids

Uterine artery embolization is a non-surgical option for symptomatic uterine fibroids. This procedure shrinks fibroids by blocking blood vessels that supply them.

• How It Works: A radiologist injects small particles into the uterine artery, cutting off the fibroid’s blood supply.
• Ideal Candidates: Women who experience heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, or abnormal bleeding but want to avoid surgery.
• Expected Results: Over time, fibroids shrink, reducing pressure symptoms and excessive bleeding.

Endometrial Ablation: Reducing Heavy Bleeding but Not Shrinking Fibroids

Endometrial ablation destroys the uterine lining, making it effective for treating heavy menstrual bleeding in women with small fibroids.

• Procedure Details: Heat, radiofrequency ablation, or freezing is used to remove the lining of the uterus.
• Limitations: It doesn’t treat large uterine fibroids or deep intramural fibroids, and pregnancy after ablation is not recommended.

Myomectomy (Hysteroscopic, Laparoscopic, Abdominal) – Fibroid Removal While Preserving the Uterus

A myomectomy removes fibroids while keeping the uterus intact, making it the preferred option for women who want to maintain fertility.

• Hysteroscopic Myomectomy: Ideal for submucosal fibroids inside the uterine cavity.
• Laparoscopic Myomectomy: Minimally invasive, used for small fibroids in the uterine wall.
• Abdominal Myomectomy: Required for large uterine fibroids but has a longer recovery time.

Surgical Options for Severe Cases

For some women with fibroids, surgery becomes the best or only option when heavy menstrual bleeding, severe pelvic pain, and abnormal uterine bleeding do not respond to medications or minimally invasive treatments. 

Surgical treatment options range from uterine artery embolization (UFE) to myomectomy and hysterectomy, each with different benefits and risks. 

While myomectomy preserves the uterus for women planning pregnancy, hysterectomy provides a permanent solution to treat heavy menstrual bleeding in those with large uterine fibroids. Choosing the right surgical treatment depends on the fibroid size, location, number, and a woman’s reproductive goals.

Hysterectomy (Total & Partial) – When Is It Necessary?

A hysterectomy is the complete removal of the uterus, either partially (leaving the cervix intact) or totally (removing the entire uterus and cervix).

• When It’s Recommended
  • Women with severe fibroid symptoms that do not respond to other treatments.
  • Those who have completed their families and want a permanent solution.
  • Women with symptomatic uterine fibroids that are too large for other treatments.
• Types of Hysterectomy
  • Total Hysterectomy: Removes the uterus and cervix, preventing future fibroid growth.
  • Subtotal (Partial) Hysterectomy: Leaves the cervix intact, requiring continued pelvic exams.

Risks and Recovery from Fibroid Surgery

Like all major surgeries, hysterectomy and myomectomy have risks and recovery challenges.

• Potential Risks
  • Blood loss: Large fibroids increase surgical bleeding risk.
  • Infection: Post-surgical care is essential to prevent complications.
  • Hormonal changes: If the ovaries are removed, menopausal symptoms may begin.
• Recovery Time
  • Hysterectomy: 6-8 weeks recovery, with restrictions on physical activity.
  • Myomectomy: Recovery time varies based on the surgical method used.

Comparison: UFE vs. Myomectomy vs. Hysterectomy

Treatment	Pros	Cons	Best For
Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)	Minimally invasive, shorter recovery	Not suitable for large fibroids	Women wanting to avoid surgery
Myomectomy	Removes fibroids while preserving fertility	Requires surgery, risk of recurrence	Women planning pregnancy
Hysterectomy	Permanent solution, no recurrence	Major surgery, long recovery	Women with severe fibroids who do not want future pregnancies

Natural and Lifestyle Remedies for Managing Fibroids

While surgical and medical treatments are effective, some women prefer natural remedies to reduce symptoms of uterine fibroids. 

Lifestyle modifications such as diet changes, exercise, and herbal supplements can help support hormonal balance, reduce inflammation, and improve blood flow. While these approaches do not shrink fibroids, they can help manage heavy bleeding and pelvic pain associated with fibroid growth.

Diet for Fibroids and Heavy Bleeding

Certain foods can reduce inflammation and hormone imbalances, helping women with fibroids manage symptoms naturally.

• Anti-Inflammatory Foods
  • Leafy greens (spinach, kale, broccoli): Help balance estrogen levels.
  • Turmeric: Contains curcumin, which reduces fibroid-related inflammation.
  • Omega-3 fatty acids (salmon, flaxseeds, walnuts): Improve blood flow and reduce pelvic pain.
• Foods to Avoid
  • Processed meats: High in saturated fats, which contribute to fibroid growth.
  • Excess dairy and sugar: Can increase hormonal fluctuations, worsening abnormal bleeding.

Exercise & Stress Management

Regular physical activity and stress reduction can lower estrogen dominance, which fuels fibroids grow.

• Yoga and Meditation
  • Reduces pelvic pain and discomfort.
  • Helps manage frequent periods and heavy bleeding.
• Walking and Low-Impact Exercises
  • Improves blood circulation and supports hormonal balance.
  • Helps women with symptomatic uterine fibroids manage their weight, reducing fibroid size progression.
• Impact of Stress on Fibroids
  • Chronic stress increases cortisol, which affects menstrual cycle irregularities.
  • Stress reduction methods can help treat heavy menstrual bleeding naturally.

Herbal and Natural Remedies (Turmeric, Vitex, Green Tea)

Several natural supplements have been studied for their potential to reduce fibroid symptoms and support reproductive health.

• Turmeric (Curcumin)
  • Anti-inflammatory properties reduce uterine wall swelling.
  • May slow fibroid tissue growth by lowering estrogen dominance.
• Vitex (Chasteberry)
  • Regulates progesterone levels, helping to treat uterine fibroids naturally.
  • Can reduce menstrual bleeding and pelvic pain.
• Green Tea Extract
  • Contains antioxidants that may help shrink fibroids over time.
  • Reduces excessive bleeding and abnormal uterine bleeding.

When to See a Doctor?

Uterine fibroids heavy bleeding can become a serious issue when it affects daily life, leads to severe blood loss, or causes complications such as rapid fibroid growth or pregnancy-related risks. 

While many women develop fibroids without noticeable symptoms, those experiencing abnormal uterine bleeding, severe pelvic pain, or frequent periods should seek medical attention. 

Larger fibroids can cause urinary problems, pressure on nearby organs, and fertility concerns, making early intervention crucial. If you are unsure whether your symptoms require medical care, consider these warning signs that indicate it’s time to consult a doctor.

If Bleeding Disrupts Daily Life or Causes Severe Anemia

If heavy menstrual bleeding lasts more than 7 days, requires frequent sanitary product changes, or results in dizziness, fatigue, and pale skin, it may indicate severe blood loss. 

Women with fibroids often experience excessive bleeding due to fibroid growth, leading to iron deficiency anemia. If you feel lightheaded, have shortness of breath, or find yourself avoiding daily activities due to bleeding, a doctor can assess whether you need medications, uterine artery embolization, or other treatments to treat heavy menstrual bleeding.

Symptoms of Fibroid Complications (Sudden Sharp Pain, Rapid Growth)

Fibroids tend to grow over time, but if you experience sudden pain in the pelvic region, it could indicate degenerating fibroid tissue. 

Rapid fibroid growth can stretch the uterine wall, causing sharp pain or pressure on surrounding organs. In some cases, large uterine fibroids may develop a twisted blood supply, leading to severe pain and inflammation. If you feel intense discomfort that doesn’t subside with pain medication, seek immediate medical help.

Pregnancy Concerns with Fibroids

Submucosal fibroids growing inside the uterine cavity can interfere with fertility and pregnancy outcomes. Some women with symptomatic uterine fibroids may experience miscarriages, premature labor, or complications during delivery. 

If you are pregnant and have been diagnosed with fibroid tumors, regular ultrasound guidance is needed to monitor fibroid size and position. 

For women trying to conceive, discussing treatment options like myomectomy or minimally invasive procedures with a doctor can improve pregnancy success.

When Fibroids Cause Frequent Urination and Bowel Issues

Larger fibroids can press against the bladder and intestines, leading to frequent urination, constipation, or difficulty emptying the bladder. 

If you find yourself waking up multiple times at night to urinate or experiencing persistent bloating and discomfort, fibroids may be affecting your blood vessels and abdominal organs. Ignoring these signs can lead to urinary retention or severe constipation, requiring medical intervention.

If Fibroids Interfere with Treatment for Other Conditions

Women undergoing hormonal therapy, fertility treatments, or treatment for other gynecological conditions should monitor fibroid symptoms closely. Intramural fibroids embedded in the uterine wall can reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills or hormone therapies, making it harder to manage excessive bleeding. 

If you notice that your treatment options aren’t working as expected, consult a specialist to explore alternative approaches like radiofrequency ablation, endometrial ablation, or uterine artery embolization.

Final Thoughts

Uterine fibroids can significantly impact a woman’s reproductive health, especially when it comes to heavy menstrual bleeding, pregnancy complications, and severe fibroid symptoms. 

While many women can conceive and carry a pregnancy successfully despite having fibroids, others may experience infertility, recurrent miscarriages, or delivery complications. Submucosal fibroids are particularly concerning as they can interfere with embryo implantation and fetal growth.

Understanding the best treatment options for uterine fibroids’ heavy bleeding is crucial. Depending on the fibroid size, location, and severity of symptoms, patients may opt for medications, minimally invasive procedures, or surgery.

Medagg Healthcare: Your Trusted Partner for Fibroid Treatment

If you are experiencing uterine fibroids heavy bleeding, abnormal uterine bleeding, pelvic pain, or pregnancy complications related to fibroids, it is essential to consult with the right specialists for treatment.

Medagg Healthcare connects you with top-rated doctors, leading hospitals, and personalized treatment options, ensuring you receive the best care based on your unique condition. Whether you are considering uterine artery embolization, minimally invasive procedures, or surgical treatment, our healthcare experts will guide you through every step of the process.

Get expert advice today! Connect with Medagg Healthcare for the best recommendations on doctors, treatment options, and hospitals.

Book an appointment

FAQs

1. What are uterine fibroids, and do they always cause symptoms?
Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths in the uterus. Some women experience no symptoms, while others may have heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, or frequent urination.

2. Why do fibroids cause heavy menstrual bleeding?
Fibroids increase blood supply to the uterus, interfere with uterine contractions, and disrupt normal clotting, leading to excessive bleeding.

3. Can fibroids affect pregnancy?
Yes, submucosal fibroids can impact fertility and pregnancy, increasing the risk of miscarriage, preterm birth, or delivery complications.

4. What are the best treatment options for heavy bleeding caused by fibroids?
Treatment depends on symptoms and goals. Options include medications, hormonal IUDs, uterine artery embolization, myomectomy, or hysterectomy for severe cases.

5. Is there a non-surgical way to treat fibroids?
Yes, uterine artery embolization (UAE) is a minimally invasive procedure that blocks blood supply to fibroids, causing them to shrink and reduce symptoms.