Does uterine fibroids cause heavy periods?

Fibroids can enlarge the surface area of the uterine lining, alter the shape of the cavity or interfere with the muscle's ability to contract during menstruation. These changes may lead to heavier or longer bleeding, clots, pressure and tiredness from iron loss. Fibroids nearer the inner cavity are particularly relevant to bleeding patterns, while fibroids elsewhere may cause pressure or pain without changing flow as much.

Heavy periods can also result from adenomyosis, hormone-related changes, polyps, some medicines, bleeding disorders or pregnancy-related problems. A clinician may ask how often you change protection, whether bleeding interrupts sleep or activities, and whether you feel dizzy or short of breath. Blood tests and pelvic imaging can help guide treatment.

Make an appointment if heavy bleeding is persistent, worsening or affecting daily life. Keep a record of bleeding days, clots, flooding, pain and fatigue, and list medicines or contraception. Ask about an anaemia check and whether ultrasound is appropriate. Treatment may include medicines, hormone-based options, management of iron deficiency or a fibroid procedure, depending on the fibroids and your plans for pregnancy.

Seek urgent care for heavy bleeding with fainting, severe weakness, breathlessness, chest discomfort or rapidly worsening symptoms. Urgent assessment is also needed for heavy bleeding with severe pelvic pain or a possible pregnancy. Arrange prompt review for bleeding after menopause, persistent fever or symptoms of anaemia such as unusual exhaustion and dizziness.

Ask whether the fibroid location could explain the bleeding, whether you need blood tests, how iron can be replaced, which treatments protect fertility, and what change would warrant urgent help.