How to Manage Fibroid Pain Around Your Period

Uterine fibroids impact nearly 7 in 10 women during their reproductive years, and unless they cause symptoms, many are unaware they have them. Fibroids that do cause symptoms can wreak havoc on your menstrual cycle, leaving you in pain and exhausted. 

At our OB/GYN practice, Dr. A. Michael Coppa and the team provide advanced care to help women find relief from fibroid-related pain and discomfort. That includes personalized treatment plans supporting women’s health throughout all life phases. 

If you deal with painful periods caused by fibroids, here’s what you should know about how to feel better.

Understanding fibroid-related symptoms

Fibroids are abnormal growths in or on the uterus. They can vary in size and location, which impacts symptoms and their severity. Some women have small fibroids that go unnoticed; others may develop large or multiple fibroids that cause pain. 

Fibroids pushing against the uterine lining or nearby organs can lead to:

• Heavy periods
• Lower back pain
• Prolonged periods
• Pelvic pressure 
• Intense cramping
• Spotting between cycles
• Discomfort during sex
• Increased urinary frequency

During menstruation, fibroids tend to worsen symptoms due to increased prostaglandin production and uterine contractions. That can result in more severe cramps, large blood clots, and fatigue.

Home strategies for easing fibroid pain

Making small changes at home can help reduce period pain and improve comfort. These strategies don’t cure fibroids, but may help you get through the challenging days.

Use OTC medications proactively

You don’t have to wait for period pain from fibroids to strike before taking action. Taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen before your period can lower inflammation. You get a handle on pain before it starts.

These medications also lower prostaglandin levels, which helps minimize cramping.

Stay active

Regular movement helps with period pain and menstrual disorders in general. It encourages circulation and reduces the intensity of cramps. Light exercise like walking or stretching during your period can feel uncomfortable at first, but often leads to noticeable relief afterward.

Apply heat

A heating pad, warm compress, or hot bath can help relax uterine muscles and reduce cramping. Apply heat to your lower abdomen in intervals of 15–20 minutes as needed.

Prioritize rest

Painful periods can wipe you out. To rest, find a position that eases pressure on the lower back, such as lying on your side and tucking in your knees. Short naps or gentle deep breathing can also support relaxation.

Medical options when pain persists

When lifestyle changes aren’t enough, Dr. Coppa offers medical treatments tailored to your needs. Hormonal therapies, like low-dose birth control pills, can regulate menstrual cycles and reduce bleeding. In some cases, he may recommend medications that shrink fibroids.

For more persistent or severe cases, Dr. Coppa may recommend minimally invasive procedures. Depending on your goals and the severity of your symptoms, procedures he may consider include hysteroscopic myomectomy or endometrial ablation. 

When possible, Dr. Coppa uses advanced techniques like robotic-assisted surgery, which has the advantage of minimizing downtime.

If you struggle with monthly pain from fibroids, relief is possible. Contact Dr. Coppa’s office in Cranston, Smithfield, or Providence, Rhode Island, to schedule a consultation and explore the treatment options that best match your needs.