There is one topic we women almost never talk about, even though up to 70% of us may experience it at some point in our lives: uterine fibroids.
They are a common cause of infertility, heavy bleeding, and pain. And although they are very common, clear information is surprisingly scarce.
One year and four months ago, I had seven fibroids removed. When I shared my experience, I received messages from people with questions I had also had at the time. It is a confusing stage, full of fear and decisions. That is why I wanted to create this blog: to give you clarity, support you, and help you better understand what to expect.
What are uterine fibroids?
Fibroids (or fibromas) are benign tumors that grow in the uterus.
Depending on the type, they can appear inside the uterine wall, toward the inner cavity, or even outside.
Although many cause no symptoms, others can cause:
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Heavy menstrual bleeding
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Pelvic pain or pressure
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Abdominal swelling
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Pain during intercourse
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Difficulty conceiving or maintaining a pregnancy
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Bleeding between periods
Symptoms depend greatly on the size, number, and location of each fibroid.
How are they diagnosed?
The most common way to diagnose them is through a pelvic ultrasound, especially an endovaginal one, because it provides greater detail.
In some cases, the following is also used:
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Abdominal ultrasound
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Magnetic resonance imaging (when greater precision is needed)
The diagnosis is generally performed by a gynecologist.
Do all fibroids require surgery?
No.
In fact, many fibroids are simply monitored because they cause no symptoms or grow very slowly.
Treatment options may include:
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Expectant management (monitoring only)
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Hormone treatment
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Techniques to reduce blood flow to the fibroid
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Myomectomy (removing fibroids while preserving the uterus)
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Laparoscopic surgery
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Open surgery (when they are large or very numerous)
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Hysterectomy (removing the uterus) in selected cases
The choice depends on your age, symptoms, desire for fertility, and the size and number of fibroids.
That is why every case is extremely personal.
My case: when fibroids begin to affect your life
I had seven large fibroids. In my case, they did not cause extreme pain, but they were directly affecting my fertility.
And I want to pause here:
When you say out loud that you have fibroids, everyone has an opinion, a story, or advice. Although it is appreciated, it can be very confusing.
What you really need to do is follow your own case, your tests, and your specialist's recommendations.
When to seek a second opinion?
It is always a good idea if:
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You were recommended surgery
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The fibroids are growing rapidly
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You have questions about the type of procedure
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Something does not sound completely clear to you
Not to be distrustful, but to feel confident before making an important decision.
Preparation before surgery
If you already have a date, you are probably nervous. That is normal.
One thing I do recommend, and that many doctors also suggest, is to arrive at surgery as inflammation-free as possible.
This can help your body be in a better state to recover.
Some general guidelines (they do not replace medical instructions):
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Reduce ultra-processed foods, fried foods, and sodas
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Avoid excess sugar, dairy, and gluten if they cause inflammation in you
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Sleep as much as you can
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Avoid stress (I know it is difficult before surgery)
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Maintain a simple, anti-inflammatory diet
My surgery lasted two and a half hours. On the day of surgery, I did not feel pain, but I was extremely nervous. Have someone you trust close by. Do not check work WhatsApp messages (I did, and I learned the hard way).
The first day after surgery
My surgery was an open myomectomy, very similar to a cesarean section.
I spent one night in the hospital.
In my personal case, what hurt the most was not the incision… but the compression stockings.
As a woman with lipedema, the pressure was very uncomfortable.
Recovery at home: what no one explains well
This is where the most intense part begins because you no longer have nurses or constant monitoring.
How long does recovery take?
It depends on the type of surgery, but for an open myomectomy, it is usually:
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2 to 6 weeks for a full recovery
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The first week is the hardest
My full recovery took one month.
What to expect during the first week?
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Bathing is the most difficult thing; do it sitting down
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Move around a little to stimulate digestion, but do not exert yourself
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Do not drive, lift heavy objects, or stand for long periods
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Prepare food in advance or ask for help
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And most importantly: go slowly
Warning signs (seek immediate medical attention)
These are important:
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Fever
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Very heavy bleeding
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Severe pain that does not improve with medication
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Redness or discharge from the incision
If something worries you: ask, do not leave it to chance.
What diet is recommended at the beginning?
During the first week, you are usually advised to follow a soft, low-fiber diet, because:
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Your bowel is inflamed
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You are taking antibiotics
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You need to avoid any abdominal strain
Include soft foods such as white bread, rice, cooked vegetables, chicken, soups, and plenty of fluids. Your nutritionist will give you specific instructions.
The scar
I understand the fear.
In my case, the scar was very low and almost invisible with clothing. I did not have infections, and it healed very well. Every body heals differently, but with care and patience, it can heal beautifully.
Was it worth it?
Yes.
Absolutely.
Going through surgery is never easy. It is scary, exhausting, stirs up emotions, and forces you to pause your life. But today I feel much better, stronger, and my fertility is back to normal.
If you are going through this:
you are not alone, take it step by step, and trust what your body and your doctor are telling you.
I am here to support you, and we will see each other in the next blog to continue talking about flexible anti-inflammatory nutrition and women's health. 💛
*This content is educational and reflects my experience as a nutritionist. It does not replace professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Every body is unique; before making changes to your diet or lifestyle, especially if you have PCOS, lipedema, or other health conditions, consult a trusted professional.
