Can fibroids cause weight gain?

Fibroids themselves do not cause fat gain, but large fibroids can add to overall body weight and cause visible abdominal distension. A very large fibroid or a uterus containing multiple fibroids can weigh several kilograms. Many women notice that their abdomen appears bloated or enlarged, which is sometimes mistaken for weight gain. After successful fibroid treatment, this abdominal distension typically resolves.

Do fibroids cause bleeding between periods?

While the most common bleeding pattern associated with fibroids is heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding, some women do experience intermenstrual bleeding (bleeding between periods). This is more commonly seen with submucosal fibroids that protrude into the uterine cavity. If you experience irregular or unexpected bleeding, it is important to have this assessed by a specialist to rule out other causes.

Can fibroids cause infertility?

Most fibroids do not affect a woman’s ability to conceive. However, submucosal fibroids — those that grow into the uterine cavity — can interfere with embryo implantation and are more strongly associated with infertility and miscarriage. Large intramural fibroids may also affect fertility if they distort the shape of the uterine cavity. If you are having difficulty conceiving and have been diagnosed with fibroids, we recommend a specialist assessment to determine whether the fibroids may be contributing.

Fibroid Symptoms: Signs You May Have Uterine Fibroids

Uterine fibroids can cause a wide range of symptoms depending on their size, number, and location. The most common symptoms include heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain or pressure, and frequent urination. However, many women with fibroids experience no symptoms at all.

Common Symptoms

The symptoms of uterine fibroids vary widely from woman to woman. Some women have fibroids for years without realising it, while others experience debilitating symptoms that significantly affect their quality of life. The following are the most commonly reported fibroid symptoms.

Heavy Menstrual Bleeding

Heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia) is the most common symptom of uterine fibroids. Women may experience periods that last longer than seven days, the need to change sanitary products every one to two hours, the passage of large blood clots, and flooding or soaking through clothing or bedding.

Over time, chronic heavy bleeding can lead to iron-deficiency anaemia, causing fatigue, breathlessness, dizziness, and pallor. This is one of the most important reasons to seek treatment for symptomatic fibroids.

Pelvic Pain and Pressure

Fibroids can cause a sensation of heaviness, pressure, or discomfort in the lower abdomen and pelvis. This is particularly common with larger fibroids or when several fibroids are present. Some women describe a constant dull ache, while others experience sharp, intermittent pain.

In some cases, a degenerating fibroid (one that has outgrown its blood supply) can cause acute pelvic pain. This type of pain usually resolves over a few days but can be severe enough to require medical attention.

Urinary Symptoms

Fibroids that press on the bladder can cause frequent urination, urgency (a sudden compelling need to urinate), and difficulty fully emptying the bladder. In rare cases, very large fibroids may compress the ureters (the tubes connecting the kidneys to the bladder), which can affect kidney function if left untreated.

Constipation and Bowel Symptoms

Fibroids located at the back of the uterus (posterior fibroids) can press on the rectum and cause constipation, difficulty with bowel movements, or a feeling of incomplete evacuation. These symptoms are often overlooked or attributed to dietary factors rather than fibroids.

Abdominal Bloating and Distension

As fibroids grow, they can cause the abdomen to enlarge noticeably. Women with large or multiple fibroids sometimes describe looking as though they are in the early stages of pregnancy. This visible distension can be a source of considerable distress and self-consciousness.

Pain During Sexual Intercourse

Some women with fibroids experience pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse (dyspareunia). This is more common with fibroids located in the lower part of the uterus or those that are positioned close to the cervix. The pain may vary with position and can range from mild discomfort to significant pain.

Lower Back Pain

Large fibroids, particularly those growing from the back wall of the uterus, can press on the nerves and muscles of the lower back, causing chronic lower back pain or leg pain. This symptom is sometimes attributed to other musculoskeletal causes before fibroids are considered.

Less Common Symptoms

While less frequently reported, fibroids can also cause a number of other symptoms. These include reproductive difficulties such as infertility or recurrent miscarriage (particularly with submucosal fibroids), complications during pregnancy and labour, and, in rare cases, acute urinary retention if a large fibroid compresses the urethra.

Some women experience leg pain or swelling if a large fibroid compresses pelvic veins, impeding blood return from the lower limbs. Although uncommon, this symptom can be an indicator of significant fibroid burden and warrants prompt assessment.

When Symptoms Indicate Treatment Is Needed

Not all fibroids require treatment. If fibroids are small and causing no symptoms, your doctor may recommend a “watchful waiting” approach with regular monitoring. However, treatment should be considered when symptoms begin to affect your quality of life.

You should consider seeking specialist assessment if you experience any of the following: periods that last longer than seven days or require frequent changes of sanitary protection; pelvic pain or pressure that interferes with daily activities; iron-deficiency anaemia caused by heavy bleeding; urinary frequency or difficulty that affects your sleep or routine; noticeable abdominal enlargement; or if you are having difficulty conceiving.

Early intervention can prevent symptoms from worsening and may offer a wider range of treatment options. Contact our team to discuss your symptoms with a specialist.

How Symptoms Affect Quality of Life

The impact of fibroid symptoms on quality of life is often underestimated. Research consistently shows that women with symptomatic fibroids report significant effects on their physical, emotional, and social wellbeing. Heavy bleeding can limit work attendance and social activities, while chronic pain and fatigue can affect relationships and mental health.

Many women feel embarrassed about their symptoms and suffer in silence for years before seeking help. Studies suggest that women wait an average of three to four years after symptom onset before receiving a diagnosis. At the North London Fibroid Clinic, we encourage women to seek assessment early, so they can access the support and treatment they deserve.

Effective treatment can transform quality of life. Following successful fibroid treatment, many women report dramatic improvements in their energy levels, ability to participate in daily activities, and overall sense of wellbeing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Medically reviewed by Dr Rakesh PatelMBBS, FRCR, Consultant Interventional Radiologist

Last updated: 1 March 2026

References

NHS — Fibroids: Symptoms. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/fibroids/symptoms/
NICE Clinical Knowledge Summaries — Fibroids: Presentation. Available at: https://cks.nice.org.uk/topics/fibroids/
Zimmermann A, Bernuit D, Coesfeld N, et al. Prevalence, symptoms and management of uterine fibroids: an international internet-based survey. BMC Women's Health. 2012;12:6.

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