Based on the location of your uterine fibroids, you may experience a whole range and/or combination of symptoms.
For example, uterine fibroids that grow along the center lining of the uterus, called submucosal fibroids, will lead to heavy menstruation. Subserosal fibroids, on the other hand — which are located on the outer surface of the uterus — can cause pain or urinary incontinence based on how they push the pelvic nerves.
In total, you may notice that your life is altered in more ways than one as a result of uterine fibroids. And, more commonly than you might expect, women often find their sex lives to be one of the most impacted components of their lives.
Uterine Fibroids and Your Sex Drive
As uterine fibroids grow, they can disrupt the balance between both estrogen and progesterone — the two primary hormones that help to influence a woman’s body. Thus, as the two are thrown out of balance, women may find their libido severely reduced, if not eliminated altogether for stretches of time.
Additionally, as fibroids grow and cause some women to appear bloated or even pregnant, they may feel self-conscious or insecure, impacting their ability to open up or otherwise emotionally connect with their partner in bed. Other women may experience symptomatic anemia and suffer from exhaustion that also impedes their sex drive.
How Uterine Fibroids Cause Painful Intercourse
Dyspareunia, or painful sexual intercourse, is common among women living with uterine fibroids and is one of the primary reasons women find it difficult to engage in their sex life after their fibroids have grown to a certain point.
The size of a woman’s fibroids is one explanation for the pain she may feel. As fibroids grow and increase their pressure on the uterus, intercourse can become increasingly painful. Otherwise, placement of the fibroid is another factor for a woman’s pain, particularly if a fibroid is in the area of the cervix that is close to the end of the vaginal tract.
Getting Back On Track
The good news is that your fibroids do not have to dictate your sex life or drive. Uterine fibroid embolization, or UFE, is a safe and clinically-proven method for eliminating your uterine fibroids and restoring both your libido and physical comfort!
With a patient satisfaction rate of over 90% and no downtime required, you can feel confident in your body and in your bed once your local professional has completed your UFE procedure.
If you have further questions about how uterine fibroids may be impacting your life, or if you’re ready to schedule your UFE appointment, it’s time to contact Duval Vascular & Fibroid Center! Our team is committed to improving the level of information and healthcare provided to women living with uterine fibroids. Call us today at 904-423-6017!