From the Research
Yes, uterine fibroids can cause left lower quadrant pain, particularly when they are large or located on the left side of the uterus. Fibroids are benign muscle tumors that grow in or on the uterus and can vary in size from tiny seedlings to large masses that distort the uterine cavity. When fibroids grow large enough, they can press on surrounding organs and tissues, including the bowel, bladder, or pelvic nerves, causing pain in the lower abdomen including the left lower quadrant. The pain may be constant or intermittent and can range from mild discomfort to severe pain. Some women experience increased pain during menstruation or sexual activity. Other symptoms that might accompany the pain include heavy menstrual bleeding, frequent urination, constipation, or a feeling of fullness in the lower abdomen.
Causes of Left Lower Quadrant Pain
The exact mechanism of how fibroids cause left lower quadrant pain is not fully understood, but several hypotheses have been proposed, including mechanical compression by fibroids on the interstitial part of the fallopian tubes or deformation of the uterine cavity, which could disturb oocyte and sperm transport 1. Additionally, fibroids can induce a detrimental environment for implantation by changing the vagino-uterine microbiome, disturbing the levels of inflammation and autophagy, inducing molecular changes in the endometrium, and inducing aberrant angiogenesis and altering the endometrial blood supply 1.
Treatment Options
Treatment options depend on the severity of symptoms and may include pain medications like NSAIDs, hormonal treatments such as birth control pills or GnRH agonists, or surgical interventions like myomectomy or hysterectomy in severe cases. GnRH analogues, such as Ulipristal acetate, have been shown to be effective in reducing fibroid volume and alleviating symptoms, including pain 2, 3. However, their use is limited by the side effects associated with long-term treatment, such as climacteric symptoms and loss of bone mass.
Importance of Proper Diagnosis
If you're experiencing persistent left lower quadrant pain, it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis, as other conditions can cause similar symptoms. A thorough evaluation, including imaging studies and physical examination, can help determine the underlying cause of the pain and guide treatment decisions. In some cases, surgical treatment may be necessary to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life 4, 5.