Last updated on July 17, 2026
If your periods have become heavier than they used to be, or you are experiencing persistent pelvic ache or pressure, you may be wondering if fibroids could be the cause. In some cases, fibroids cause little to no disruption. In others, they can lead to heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, bloating, pressure symptoms and have a significant impact on day-to-day life.
Fibroids can often be managed with appropriate treatment; uterine fibroid embolisation, for example, is a minimally invasive procedure that reduces blood flow to the fibroids, helping them shrink over time. In this article, we explain the link between fibroids, heavy periods and pelvic pain, and explore the treatment options available.
What Are Uterine Fibroids?
Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in or around the womb. They are made up of muscle and fibrous tissue and can vary enormously in size. Some are as small as a seed, while others can grow large enough to change the shape of the uterus.
Fibroids are very common. Many women will develop at least one fibroid during their reproductive years, and quite often, they cause no symptoms at all. The problem arises when fibroids grow in number, size or in a particular position that starts to interfere with how your body functions.
You might hear fibroids referred to by different names depending on where they sit. Submucosal fibroids grow into the cavity of the uterus, intramural fibroids develop within the muscular wall, and subserosal fibroids form on the outer surface.
Can Fibroids Cause Heavy Periods?
Yes, fibroids are a common cause of heavy menstrual bleeding. If you have found yourself changing pads or tampons far more frequently, passing large clots, or bleeding for longer than seven days, fibroids may be one possible cause.
This happens because fibroids, particularly those growing inside or close to the uterine cavity, increase the surface area of the womb lining and disrupt the way the uterus contracts during your period. This can contribute to heavier and often more prolonged bleeding.
Heavy periods are not just inconvenient. Over time, significant blood loss each month can lead to iron deficiency anaemia, leaving you feeling tired, breathless and run down. If you have been told your iron levels are low and you also have heavy periods, it is worth investigating whether fibroids are playing a part.
Can Fibroids Cause Pelvic Pain?
Yes, fibroids can be a common cause of pelvic pain and pressure. The sensation can vary from a dull, ongoing ache to sharper episodes of pain, and it often depends on the size, number and position of the fibroids.
Larger fibroids may press on nearby organs, which can create a feeling of fullness, heaviness or pressure in the lower abdomen. If a fibroid presses on the bladder, you may need to pass urine more often. If it presses on the bowel, it may contribute to constipation, bloating or discomfort. Some women also experience lower back pain or discomfort during sex, particularly when fibroids are located in areas that place pressure on surrounding pelvic structures.
In some cases, a fibroid can outgrow its blood supply and begin to break down, which may cause sudden, more severe pain. Although this is less common, it highlights why persistent or worsening pelvic pain should not be dismissed. If your symptoms are affecting your daily life, it is worth seeking medical advice so the cause can be properly assessed and the most suitable treatment options can be discussed.
What Are the Other Symptoms of Fibroids?
Fibroids can cause a range of symptoms beyond heavy bleeding and pelvic pain. Depending on their size and location, you may notice swelling or fullness in the lower abdomen, frequent urination, difficulty emptying the bladder, constipation, pain during sex or fatigue related to anaemia. For some women, fibroids may also contribute to fertility challenges or complications during pregnancy.
It is important to remember that fibroid symptoms can vary significantly from one person to another. Two women with fibroids of a similar size may have very different experiences, depending on where the fibroids are located and how they affect surrounding structures. This is why a proper diagnosis is essential, particularly if your symptoms are persistent, worsening or interfering with daily life.
How Are Fibroids Diagnosed?
If your symptoms suggest fibroids, your doctor may begin with a pelvic examination to assess the size and shape of the uterus. However, imaging is usually required to confirm the diagnosis.
Ultrasound is commonly used as the first-line investigation and can identify the size, number and location of fibroids. In some cases, an MRI may be recommended for more detailed assessment, particularly when planning treatment such as uterine fibroid embolisation.
A clear diagnosis is important because treatment depends on several factors, including the position and size of the fibroids, the severity of your symptoms, your overall health and whether you wish to preserve fertility.
What Are the Treatment Options for Uterine Fibroids?
There are several treatment options for uterine fibroids, and the most appropriate approach depends on your symptoms, fibroid characteristics, age, health and future pregnancy plans.
Medication
Medication may be used to help manage symptoms such as heavy bleeding or pelvic pain. Hormonal treatments, including GnRH agonists or progestin-releasing intrauterine devices, may reduce bleeding and temporarily shrink fibroids. However, medication does not remove fibroids, and symptoms may return once treatment is stopped.
Uterine Fibroids Embolisation
Uterine fibroids embolisation is a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure that reduces blood flow to the fibroids. A small catheter is guided into the uterine arteries, where tiny particles are released to block the fibroids’ blood supply. Over time, this causes the fibroids to shrink and symptoms such as heavy bleeding, pressure and pelvic pain may improve.
Uterine fibroids embolisation may be suitable for women who want to avoid major surgery and preserve their uterus. Your individual suitability will be assessed during a consultation with Dr Ryan.
Myomectomy
Myomectomy is a surgical procedure that removes fibroids while preserving the uterus. It may be considered for women who wish to retain fertility or avoid a hysterectomy. Depending on the fibroids’ size and location, it may be performed by hysteroscopy, laparoscopy or open abdominal surgery.
Hysterectomy
Hysterectomy involves the surgical removal of the uterus and is considered a definitive treatment for fibroids. As the uterus is removed, fibroids cannot recur. This option is usually reserved for severe, recurrent or complex cases, and is only suitable for women who do not wish to preserve fertility.
All medical procedures carry potential risks and are not suitable for everyone. Your specialist will discuss the benefits, risks and alternatives with you during your consultation so you can make an informed decision.
Book an Appointment with Vein Doctors Sydney
If heavy periods, pelvic pain or pressure symptoms are affecting your quality of life, it may be time to seek a specialist assessment. These symptoms should not be dismissed as something you simply have to live with, particularly when fibroids may be the underlying cause.
At Vein Doctors Sydney, we are committed to providing detailed consultations and support for patients seeking uterine fibroids treatment. For more information on our services or to schedule a consultation at our clinic, please contact our staff by calling us on (02) 9023 9970, via our online form or by sending us an email.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are fibroids dangerous or cancerous?
Fibroids are almost always benign, meaning they are non-cancerous. While they can cause uncomfortable or disruptive symptoms, they very rarely develop into cancer. Any new, worsening or unusual symptoms should be assessed by a specialist to confirm the cause.
Can fibroids go away on their own?
Fibroids may shrink after menopause as hormone levels decline. During the reproductive years, however, they often remain the same size or gradually increase in size. If fibroids are causing heavy bleeding, pelvic pain or pressure symptoms, treatment may be recommended rather than waiting for symptoms to settle on their own.
Will I still be able to have children after fibroid treatment?
Some fibroid treatments, such as myomectomy and uterine fibroids embolisation, are designed to preserve the uterus. If you are planning a future pregnancy, it is important to discuss this with your specialist.
How long does recovery from uterine fibroid embolisation take?
Recovery from uterine fibroid embolisation is usually shorter than recovery from open surgery. Many women return to normal daily activities within 1 to 2 weeks, although recovery varies depending on symptoms, overall health, and the advice of your treating specialist.
How do I know if my heavy periods are caused by fibroids?
Heavy periods can have several possible causes, so a proper assessment is needed. Your doctor may recommend a pelvic examination and imaging, such as an ultrasound or MRI, to confirm whether fibroids are present and whether they are likely to be contributing to your symptoms.
Is uterine fibroid embolisation painful?
Uterine fibroid embolisation is usually performed with local anaesthetic and sedation to help keep you comfortable during the procedure. Cramping or pelvic discomfort can occur afterwards as the fibroids begin to lose their blood supply, but this is generally managed with pain relief and usually settles over time.
This information is not intended to be used for diagnosis or treatment. It is aimed at presenting a perspective only and is not a substitute for a prescription. Anyone experiencing a medical condition should consult their doctor.
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