Fibroids: Talking to your partner about your sexual health

At times, fibroids can make sexual intercourse uncomfortable, and if you have large or multiple fibroids, you might experience pain during sex.

This painful intercourse can affect your libido; you may find yourself less interested in sex due to the anticipated pain. If sex is painful for you, speak with your doctor.

While uterine fibroids might be the cause, numerous other factors can be involved. You might also feel self-conscious about your body or less attractive, especially if you have gained weight or appear pregnant due to the size and location of the fibroids.

If your partner feels rejected or doesn’t understand your condition, it can lead to conflict. By having an open, honest conversation about uterine fibroids and painful intercourse, you can help your partner understand your condition and strengthen your relationship.

Every woman with fibroids experiences symptoms differently, but for some, sex can be extremely painful.

This pain may be due to pressure from the fibroids, vaginal dryness, or hormonal changes.

Fibroid pain isn’t consistent; it can become more intense at certain times of the month or in specific positions. Regardless of the cause, painful intercourse can disrupt your sex life and place a major strain on your relationship.

Severe menstrual pain and other fibroid symptoms, such as urinary incontinence and exhaustion, can also impact your sex life.

The heavy bleeding associated with uterine fibroids can make you feel tired and affect your concentration.

You might feel embarrassed or scared of leaking through your clothing and may also experience depression, irritability, or anxiety.

All of these side effects can impact your relationship, making sex stressful. Your partner might not understand why you are avoiding intimacy. Taking the time to have a transparent conversation is essential for both partners.

Discuss with your partner about how your fibroids are causing pain or anxiety during sex.

Open communication is crucial when talking about uterine fibroids and painful intercourse. Let your partner know how you feel and acknowledge their feelings as well. Starting this conversation can be difficult.

Learn more about your condition so you can answer your partner’s questions accurately. Choose the right time for the conversation; don’t bring it up when you’re upset or short on time.

Select a time and place that works for both of you, ensuring privacy and minimizing distractions.

Be honest. Talk openly about your symptoms and how they specifically affect your sex life. Let your partner know that pain, fatigue, and heavy bleeding might interrupt your plans and that sex may be painful. Discuss ways to cope with your symptoms together.

Be supportive. It’s easy to forget that your partner is also affected by your pain and symptoms. They may experience similar emotions, such as anger, frustration, and helplessness. Listen to your partner’s feelings and offer support.

For some women, uterine fibroids and sex can be a painful combination. Up to 80 per cent of women develop uterine fibroids by age 50.

While most fibroids don’t have symptoms, painful intercourse is a common issue for some.

In addition to pain during sex, fibroids can cause heavy or irregular menstrual bleeding and muscle cramping, further affecting your sex life.

Fibroids can lead to pain during sex, pelvic pain, or heavy, painful menstrual bleeding.

Some women experience extreme pain during sex because fibroids are often associated with “deep dyspareunia,” or pain deep in the vagina.

This is more common if your fibroids are located in the upper section of your uterus if you have given birth, or if you have other pelvic conditions like endometriosis.

Women with depression are also twice as likely to experience painful intercourse.

There are various approaches to managing and treating uterine fibroids, including watchful waiting, exercise, drug therapy, surgery, and minimally invasive treatments.

High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound is a non-surgical option that can provide symptomatic relief with less risk and a shorter recovery period compared to a hysterectomy.

Speak with your specialist to determine the best treatment for your uterine fibroids, including nonsurgical options.