Natural progression after viewing fibroid pictures. With all the shapes and sizes, you can see why getting an answer to the fibroid weight question can prove difficult.
Lots of thoughts about this in another post. The original fibroid weight question:
momma’s_girl: wondering how much a softball sized tumor would weigh… any ideas?
So, I set out to search for an answer. From a couple of my responses:
EclecticGeek: Heard fibroids can weigh several pounds but couldn’t find anything that related fibroid weight to approximate size. Started camping out at Google Scholar and PubMed typing in keywords to search (fibroid weight, weight of fibroids, fibroid weight calculation, etc.). I think part of the problem is the shape. Fibroids aren’t perfect spheres so you can’t use some standard formula. Also, I can’t find a consensus on the composition. I’m sure the percentage of whatever is in there varies also compounding the problem.
I was running out of ideas at this point. Fortunately, a contributor provided a spark to jump start my thought processes again. Yay! From the geeky fibroid weight comment:
fibroid free: Volume (V) = LxWxH ok then Mass=Vp (vol x density) ok but how do I get the density?? Then I searched some clinical abstracts and I did find a couple of abstracts listing average weight in surgery comparisons….this is fuzzy science from a Microbiologist/Biochemist so dont kill the messger… it was noted that an 9 cmx 3 cm ‘broid was listed on average as 350-400 grams. Ok so 1000grams = 2.205 lbs or 1 g = 0.002205 pounds (lbs) sooo….. 500g = 1.1 ilb; 350 g= 0.77 lbs and 400 g = 0.88 lbs
Ahhh. Yes, it’s becoming clearer. Hang with me for the last little bit. My “geek-like” response:
EclecticGeek: When I started reading what you said about volume, it clicked. Density is a problem but also shape. Women are getting different dimensions for the fibroids. Some get three (i.e. 7cm x 8cm x 9cm) and can use the formula you provided. More rectangular I guess(?). Some get only one (i.e 6cm) and would need the formula for a sphere (hence pi). For two dimensions (i.e. 9cm x 3cm), maybe use a cylinder calculation(?) that also requires pi.
Now, here is some review material, a few volume equations, and an online calculator. (Did I just sound like a teacher?)
Rectangular Prism
Rectangular Prism: V = l x w x h [i.e. 7cm x 5cm x 2cm = 70cm³]
Cylinder: V = ∏r²h [i.e. dimensions 9, 3: (3.14)(1.5cm)²(9cm) = 63.6cm³]
Sphere: V = 4(∏r³)/3 [i.e. dimension 9: 4(3.14)(4.5)³/3 = 381.5cm³]
Density: ρ = m/V (We will worry about density later after we get volumes and can find more mass info.)
Okay. Let’s get this “fibroid weight” party started. Post your thoughts, calculations, corrections, or other info. 
——————–
Related Posts:
What are uterine fibroid tumors?
Psst… Where can I find pictures of fibroid tumors?
Can I pass a uterine fibroid?
June 8, 2009 at 3:33 pm
Just wanted to thank you for this site. I thought that most of my symptoms were in my head. I guess we do know our bodies better than we think. Surgery is July 2nd and for once I feel at easy and ready. Thanks for the great info..
January 3, 2012 at 8:19 am
This reply is for anyone stumbling across this website. I have a 7 cm fibroid (intramural) and my doc wants to do a hysterectomy. The following website, created by a fibroid expert (Dr. Parker from UCLA school of medicine), is awesome http://www.fibroidsecondopinion.com/
I found more research based information on fibroids from this website than any other site. He has been able to remove fibroids without hysterectomy on many women whose docs had said it wasn’t an option.
Anyone out there with an Intramural fibroid who was able to have it removed through myomectomy?
July 12, 2012 at 8:27 pm
Have you already had a hysterectomy, Marlo? I hope not! Check out the book “Fibroids: The Complete Guide to Taking Charge of Your Physical, Emotional and Sexual Well Being.” You can get a lot of information about alternatives to hysterectomy and how to advocate for yourself when doctors want to do a procedure that is easier for them but may not be best for you. 7cm intramural is not that big; there are surgeons who remove much larger masses even laparoscopically! Good luck!
January 12, 2013 at 2:05 pm
I am schedule to have one removed in May- I just suffered a miscarriage because of it. My doctor is putting me on Luron Depot for 3 months to shrink it, then a myomectomy with hopefully very good chances of preserving my fertility.
January 12, 2013 at 2:52 pm
I just had a complete hysterectomy 9 weeks ago due to a 2 lb fibroid and my uterus being the size of a 7 month pregnancy. It had been that way for 2 years and getting worse. Caused some secondary health issues and quality of life for me including periods so heavy I was going through a super plus tampon and pad every 90 minutes for 3-4 days, every 21-25 days. I am 52. I had enough and said no more. I have no regrets about my decision. Finding the right HRT is a not challenging but that would have been the case either way. This beats bleeding out every month and because the fibroid is no longer pushing my stomach and lungs out of place, I can breathe much easier. It was like being endlessly 8 months pregnant with bleeding and at 52, I did not need that.
June 8, 2009 at 3:46 pm
Update:
Well, I am now 2.5 weeks post-AM and have lost 6 lbs. I went into surgery at 137 and I am now 131! I haven’t weighed 131 since I was 25 (im 29 now). I have more energy during my recovery than I did prior to surgery! I also have less back pain and urinate less frequently.
Jass-
Good luck with your surgery! I bet you cannot wait to be rid of the life force suckers!
July 9, 2009 at 1:57 am
How exciting to hear from so many women who now no longer have headaches! I am two weeks post op (TAH 16 wk pregancy fibroid removed – dont know how much it weighed) and I havent had a headache since. I was thinking it was only because I have been on pain meds/anti inflammatory meds since then. Hopefully I have seen the last of headaches.
Re weight loss, I had put on about 4kg (62kg/136lb) in the 2 months leading up to my operation (due to not being able to run and due to fibroid growing) and lost 2kg (4.4lb) immediately as a result of the operation. I have 2kg to lose still.
Re size loss. My waist is not as small as it was before the fibroid did its fast growing phase (in the 2 months prior to op), but its not far off. I fitted into some work pants in the morning yesterday for a job interview. By the afternoon, my waist measured almost 2 inches more. The muffin top is the main problem post op for me. Its very tender and I cant stand wearing tight clothes. My waist and the muffin top gets bigger over the day.
Good news – I feel great now. Much better than pre-op. It makes me realise how much pain and discomfort I was in before the op. I dont regret it a minute. Good luck everyone!
December 20, 2009 at 12:53 am
THANK YOU. IM THINKG ABOUT MAKING A VIDEO FOR MY PRE AND POST OP! NOT ENOUGH INFO ON THE INTERNET!
April 30, 2010 at 7:01 pm
its so god ot hear good thoughts about a hystorectomy. my doc is saying i need a partial but i am only 40 and dont want to go into menopause in 3 yrs due to my ovaries dying from no blood flow. i am uncomfortable, however. pressure and have to pee all time.
not sure what to do, just try to shrink it naturally?
thanks,
annlouise
April 30, 2010 at 7:16 pm
AnnLouise – can you go to a different doctor ? If yours is not willing to work with you, find one who will. The doctor works for you.
June 2, 2010 at 5:25 am
Annloise I am 46 and was devestated to be told by my consultant that he would only do a hysterectomy. After much hospital politics I have been refered to another consultant who is more than happy to remove the fibroid without removing anything else (fibroid 10cm and in the wall of uterus). I am so glad I stood my ground. Some consultants just do not like fibroid removal and will tell you it is too risky(like my first consultant) others do not see the procedure as any big deal(like my current consultant) .Whatever op you have, make sure you are confident it is the best for you, not just your consultants favourite method. Good luck x
October 24, 2012 at 5:35 pm
No partial hyster! Please
July 15, 2009 at 8:55 am
Kim – Good to hear that your surgery went well and that you are feeling so much better now.
I had my AM on 29 May and like you, lost about 2kg on the table. Your muffin top will disappear soon. I was comfortably wearing jeans and pantyhose (not together!) by the end of week 5 and whilst everyone heals at different speed, hopefully you will be back to old size really soon (if not already).
I hope the rest of your recovery goes well.
Cheers.
July 16, 2009 at 1:05 am
Sorry, make that an AH (hysterectomy rather than a myomectomy).
July 17, 2009 at 1:12 pm
So glad to find this site! I have been struggling with fibroids for about 10 years but luckily have had relatively little pain and normal periods until recently. My doctor and I had planned on “sitting it out” until menapause or possibly doing UEF in necessary. Unfortunately, in the meantime my uterus and cervix have “dropped” and a hysterectomy is necessary now. My dilema is whether to try Lupron for 3 months to see if it will shrink my fibroids enough to do a vaginal hysterectory or go ahead with an adominal hys. I’ve heard horror stories regarding Lupron and I have a very high level job, I don’t know if I can risk turning into a pschopath for three months for the possibility of an easier recovery. Any lupron experience is appreciated. I also am struggling with the weight and its bugging me. I’m probably up about 15 lb and my stomach is so bloated — I used to have such a flat stomach and I excersize ALOT — but minimal changes I think, due to fibroids and pontentially birth control pills. I have to say, I am almost looking forward to having it all ripped out and being normal again, I’m just scared about the Lupron!
October 25, 2010 at 10:50 pm
I tried Lupron early last year and was completely amazed at how “crazy” I became. I could not remember anything and had to really concentrate on what was going on around me so as not to appear “drugged and glazed”. There were instances that I could not even remember my own name! Then I would have bouts of crying, mostly for no reason, and extreme mood swings. I will never, ever, use this drug again! And to top it off, my fibroids did not shrink at all. I am now back at base one, which is having a hysterectomy. Good luck to you.
July 28, 2009 at 2:14 pm
Like all of you, I have fibroids and my mid section is growing! I do not have any other symptoms! I was told that my uterus is about a 5 months’ pregnancy. I thought that I was gaining weight. Anyway, I want to have an operation and my Ob-gyn suggested hysterectomy since my husband and I have never want to have kids. On the other hand, I am afraid of the cutting me open…I realize that there is ultra sound operations which I am not sure if I am the right candidate! I am just confused and a bit scared…I wonder if I will lose some weight post operations…I am going to meet with my doctor in early Aug and I hope that I can decide what to do! So many of you seem to feel better and have more energy….I seemed to be lacking interest in things after knowing about the fibroid issue in middle Jun! I want to have my old self by but at the same time, I am afraid of the possible consequences of the operations!
July 29, 2009 at 8:51 am
HB – Its normal to feel scared. But you need to be absolutely sure that the hysterectomy is how you want to proceed. Its a very serious operation. The last thing you need when you are recovering is doubt about whether you did the right thing or not. Your doctor should be able to talk to you about all of the options available to you and their pros and cons (and refer you to someone else if he/she doesn’t do them). You should also ask your doctor lots of questions about the AH you are considering having, how he is going to do it, what the risks are, whether he seen those risks etc. Question everything they say. For me the AH was the way to go and the outcome has been fantastic. I’m nearly at the 9 weeks mark now, and feel wonderfully healthy and normal. I haven’t felt this good in years. And . . . I’m losing weight without even trying – probably because its so easy be active when you feel so damn good!
July 29, 2009 at 11:05 am
Carolyn,
Thanks for your comment! I am very happy for you that you are feeling good after your operation!
I understand that hysterectomy is a very serious operations and my doctor told me that he could consider just removing the fiborids but there is a big chance that they will grow again. My thinking is that if the procedures for hysterectomy and myomectomy require opening my abs, it may be better to have the experience once and not to have to repeat it! Besides, it seems to be easier to take out the whole uterus than to operate on each an every fibroid, I was told that I have many. Thanks for reminding me to enquire about all the questions I have. It is amazing how much information I could get from the internet and all the potential risk that one may encounter, but I will surely bring all my concerns and queries to my doctor. Somehow, I really would like to move on and not to worry about fiborids or whatever they are going to affect my body! It is encouraging to know that you have good results and I will let you know the action I am going to take. Meeting with my doctor next week!!!!
July 29, 2009 at 11:14 am
Kimberly,
I do not know much about Lupron but I surely want to provide some support here for you! I understand how frustrating it is to be working out, eating healthy and yet gaining weight. I share the same feelings and I know exactly what you meant when you want to feel normal again! So, talk to your doctor and make a decision.
August 3, 2009 at 10:01 pm
I just had an embolized, calcified one removed (even dead, it was misbehaving), and it weighed 1,100g.
August 4, 2009 at 2:45 am
Thanks Carolyn, its almost 6 weeks post TAH now. My muffin top is less prominent now and I think I can be OK with it as it is. My waist is back to what it was pre fibroid fast growth phase. I think the main reason I am still not comfy in my jeans is that I am still a little tender and I need to lose 2kg (all this sitting around getting better). Once I get back to decent exercising (am cycling to work tomorrow) I will lose it. I saw my surgeon at week 4 – she said the fibroid weighed 900g which is about 2 lb.
August 4, 2009 at 3:29 am
I just saw all the posts about density – being an engineer this is great to see! My fibroid was about 8cm x 4 x 4 and weighed 900g. Look in your fridge to see something about that weight – perhaps a carton of milk? The milk is heaps bigger in volume than my fibroid. So I think of it as kind of like a stone! Perhaps the density of fibroids varies quite a lot?
February 12, 2010 at 3:57 pm
Hi Kim!
I just revied my pathology report with my surgeon today. The density is LOW. Trust me. I couldn’t believe it. Read my post taday on the size and weight of my fibriod.
Serenity
February 12, 2010 at 3:59 pm
Actullay I think the density varies. I just read other reponses to weight. 2lbs?! WOW!
August 4, 2009 at 6:53 am
Kim – I am so glad to hear that you are almost back to normal. If your recovery is similar to mine (and I’m only a few weeks ahead of you), even though you’ll be sore for a while you probably won’t notice it very often. I was so happy when I could finally sleep on my stomach and that only happened recently, at about the 8 week mark.
February 12, 2010 at 3:54 pm
YES! Im 3 weeks into recovery. Im soooo glad i can sleep on my stomach again. Still a bit uncomfortable …..I have to roll slowly, but when i get into position…..HEEEELLLO SLEEP!
LOL
August 5, 2009 at 2:38 am
Kim, that’s really interesting and very strange, I had no idea! Thanks!
August 5, 2009 at 2:42 am
Diane, can you tell us how much it shrank (size, not volume) and in what way it was misbehaving? i.e. were there different symptoms after it was embolized or the same ones never went away? Thanks!
August 11, 2009 at 11:49 pm
HI, I have 6 measureable fibroids & need to have an abdominal hysterectomy due to the size of my uterus. My biggest worry is having to put my life in the hands of a surgeon whom I have no stastistics on ,skill, complication rates,infection etc. Does anyone know of a site or anywhere i can check on the doctors sucess rates etc.
February 12, 2010 at 3:52 pm
Clare!
Read my post on January 25th. Do your reseach…You need to feel comfortable…. I feel like I made an infromed decision. Write back to me if you need any other questions answered..
Serenity
January 9, 2010 at 11:15 pm
Hello Everyone,
This site has helped me so much in the past few months. I was going to read and go on, but I think I should add my bit in case in can help someone else later.
I am having laproscopic myomectomy on Wednesday January 13th 2009.
I was diagnosed with fibroids in 2004. They were so big that they had to give me lupron for 6 months before attempting an embolization. The embolization was successful, but the uterus is still very large (5 month pregnancy…11 fibroids in total…2 oranges and 9 smaller).
After the embolization, my period came lightly and with no pain. My tummy went down a little and I thought the rest was just fat. I didn’t want to go through all the running around with the hospital and doctors again, so I I thought that I would just live with it.
The back pain has become unbearable and I barely get a period anymore, which believe it or not, is very frustrating because I feel like I am missing my monthly cleansing. In the past few months my skin had errupted with acne and I have gained a lot of weight. I can’t have sex because it hurts so much and I feel terrible about myself because of the way my front looks.
I am 5’9 and I weigh 215lbs. I am supposed to weigh 170. I feel inspired when I read about the women losing weight after surgery. I went to a natropath and asked her why many of you are losing weight even though the fibroids themselves don’t weigh tha much?
She said: that the liver, kidneys and intestines are able to function properly after the surgery. They are able remove toxins from the body more easily. Thus, causing instant weight loss.
I found this very interesting especially given my latest bout with zitts.
I’m very excited about this surgery and see it as a fresh start. I have been very inactive for the past 10 years, but I am committed to losing weight so that the fibroids do not grow back.
Hope this information will help someone.
Peace.
February 5, 2010 at 6:39 pm
Hello Everyone,
I am in my 3rd week of recovery after having 12 fibroids lapriscopically removed. They found the 12th hinding on an ovary. I had the DR. weigh them an she said that all 12 weighed less than 1lb. I have lost about 5lb and I feel great.
The back pain dissapeared instantly and my tummy has gone down considerable. My skin is clearing up a little, but people in my building swear that I look very fresh and healthy. I have noticed that my eyes are much brighter and the dark circles have all but gone. Could this be from the better organ function I wonder?
Anyhoo, I’m so excited for everyone who is having this done soon. You will feel fabulous!
August 10, 2012 at 8:53 pm
It’s been more than 2 years since you posted, but I want to thank you so very, very much for this post. Maybe “good energy” will come to you even if you never read this. Thank you for inspiring me to have hope.
August 21, 2012 at 12:19 am
Hello Everyone
it is encouraging to read all the posts and the experiences that I can expect.
I will undergo surgery (abdominal hysterectomy) in September. My doctor says its the size of a 7-and-a-half-month pregnancy. It reaches up to below my ribs – which explains my rib pains. I always had heavy menstrual bleeding but in 2010-2011, I noticed the periods stretched past a month. (A few times, I had puddles at work and had to leave early.) The GP gave me tablets. In 2008, I began having almost constant back pain. One chiropractor gave me exercises, electrotherapy and instructed I use an icepack to numb the pain. Another gave me magnetic therapy. I use tablets for the pain. A friend said she knew someone with similar period problems and recommended her friend’s gyn/obs. The gyn/obs made the diagnosis. Right now, I must lose 8 lbs and increase my blood count before surgery.
January 11, 2010 at 12:44 am
Jasmine,
Good luck on Wednesday! Let us know how you do on the laparascopy page: http://blog.geekwithfibroids.com/2006/10/24/how-are-you-feeling-after-your-laparoscopic-myomectomy/
I found your post interesting… with the exception of having undergone an emboliztion, I’m in your position… and hope to undergo a laparascopic myomectomy some time this year…
That said, your experience with the embolization is an important one to share… please consider posting your experience on the embolization page… http://blog.geekwithfibroids.com/2006/09/21/how-are-you-feeling-after-your-uterine-fibroid-embolization/
January 25, 2010 at 7:16 pm
I must say this is a great article i enjoyed reading it keep the good work
January 25, 2010 at 7:34 pm
Hello, I just came back from the OBGYN and wanted to do a little research and stumbled on this website. I had an ultrasound a week ago and today she told me I have a fibroid aprox. 8 cm. She told me they are rarely cancerous and not to worry and to schedule another ultrasound in 6 months. Does this sound resonable? I had severe back pain 3 months ago and couldn’t walk-had to go to the hospital and get an epidural- i wonder if there is any corralation? Also I sometime have severe pain in the pelvic area that comes and goes when I walk. Could my fibroid have something to do with my lack of energy and poochy tummy ? I haven’t had a period in over 2 months (before they were sporadic and sometimes heavy) and she said at the age of 48 I could be entering menopause and not to worry! Any thoughts out there?
thanks
February 24, 2010 at 4:09 pm
Karen, none of that sounds reasonable. I am scheduled for my AM tomorrow but I remember over 12 years ago the head of OBGYN at a med school telling me fibroids are no big deal, lots of women have them. My good friend lost consciousness several times before finding out they were pressing on her nerves in her back. My cousin had a hysterectomy because hers were attaching to various internal organs for blood supply.
So if they are causing you problems, please go see another doctor.
Thanks to all the other ladies who posted – it so helpful to hear other people’s experiences. I am curious to find out just how big these things are (I know I have 4 and my uterus is about 5 months enlarged). I hope to lose some weight, too, when this is all over.
January 25, 2010 at 11:27 pm
Hi!
I stumbled upon this blog after a visit from my OB/GYN in December 2009. She had been my GYN for apprx 10 years! I put my trust into her ability to handle my medical needs. for years she monitored my HPV stats (human Papilloma Virus). I too am a medical provider (pediatrics).. I have to say TRUST YOUR GUT (literally).. After my pre op consultation with her, i left with so many unanswered questions and many of my concerns not met. She was about to sccedule me for a Myomectomy with “possible HYSTORECTOMY”. Normal consent you say …huh? Well it doesnt have to be. I left her office in shock. Im 34 years old and she could not tell me 100% if I would come out of surgery an intact women.. Despite our years of previous conversation for my ‘back up plan”(sperm donor). Her response was ‘ I wont know for sure until I open you up”
We discussed the shape of the fibriod (on a pendullum or stalk), she would clamp the stalk to cut off the blood supply. We discussed donating my blood prior to surgey because the uterus is very vascualr and bleeding is likely. she couldnt confirm the # of fibriods. “I wont know till I open you up”. Uhh…dont you have and MRI? I questined why she didnt ask for my films. She also could not confirm that she would use sugical glue instead of staples.. She told me a women of my size typically won’t do well with sugical glue. Althought this was my most superficial question, i think she forgot that I too was a practitioner I have adult patients that are post op, GYN , twice my size ( Im 200lbs) and return to thier bed with surgical glue. Her answers didnt sit right with me. She cant take my uterus! So I found this blog while searching for answers. I read the term “RE”. Not until the blog i heard about REPRODUCTIVE ENDOCRINOLOGISTS. These are GYN”S or OB/GYN’s that specialize in procedures to maintain your fertility. REMINDER Iam a NURSE PRACTITIONER with a masters degree. i have never came across this specialty. Through Divine intervintion (long story) I found Dr. Stanley West . He removed my Fibroid 1 big ole honey dew melon size fibroid. made several cuts to my uterus (fibroid too big for the typical incision) removed the fibroid and reconstucted my uterus. According the Dr West if i was ready i can have children in 4 months! Did I tell you he is a “microsurgeon” . I cry because of this divine intervention. The fibriod shape was nothing like my GYN described. I dont know what MRI report she read. Dr West read my MRI report whle drawing pictures. I donated no blood . he said that will cause me to be anemic and cause othe problems for surgery. At St vincents hospital they use a cell saver. My blood loss during sugery is collected and i guess cleaned, and put right back in my IV. I saw it upon awakening from anesthesia. it wasnt alot either. Oh yeah Im home healing sore not really pain. dont get me wrong Im exhausted! But… I got my GLUE to a bikini line cut you cant even see! My sugical opening is closed in 5 layers! Nothing is gonna break free! In this case the glue is cosmetic. His final stitch is right under the skin. This is not the typical closure of GYN thats why they prefer staples its Quick! They go back to thier office or go delivery another baby.. Iwas the only obligation on his work schedule. He had all the time he needed to reconstruct and stitch it back. Please go to a RE!!!!!!!! My sugical consent read “MYOMECTOMY NO HYSTERECTOMY” brought me to tears!
February 12, 2010 at 3:46 pm
Hello!
I just received the pathology report from my surgeon. My fibroid size was 9.3cm x 7.5cm x 5.3cm. Weight = 83 grams, sooooo that is approx 0.183 pounds. That’s pretty light huh? How could something so light in weight reak so much havoc? It was pressing against my bladder and cocyx area. Therefore i went to the bathroom alot and I had numbness of my feet and legs due the the irritation on the nerves.
February 24, 2010 at 4:12 pm
Wow, Serenity. Just imagine all us non-medical professionals who end up taking the doctor’s word for it.
I don’t even want a possible hysterectomy but my doc said it may be a choice between stopping the bleeding and me dying. Is that true ?
April 9, 2010 at 3:42 pm
So pleased fond this forum as I am so fed up with being so huge. I have an 11cm fibroid and my middle is expanding by the day despite my 4 gym classes a week and diet. My friend at work is 3.5 months pregnant and her unborn child is 8cm long and she is so proud and happy with her pregnant belly, also eating for two. I on the other hand have a son of 21 and don’t want to look pregnant again! It is so good to hear your stories and that the weight shift after surgery. I am waiting to hear from my consultant as to when I am having surgery, but the sooner the better for me.
April 10, 2010 at 9:48 pm
Liza,
I just had a 10cm fibroid removed three weeks ago by a robotic assisted myomectomy. I too looked about 4-5 months pregnant at the age of 46, not a good feeling! Although the fibroid weighed about 3/4 of a pound I have lost about 5 pounds so far without trying. My thought is that I have more energy since the fibroid was requiring a large amount of blood to sustain itself. It outgrew the blood supply and actually started to degenerate (or die) in the center. I’m so glad it is gone and have one more week before I can get serious about exercise again.
April 7, 2012 at 4:19 pm
Hi Tina,
I, too, have an 11cm fibroid with necrosis / degeneration in the center. I am scheduled for a robotic myomectomy on April 18th. I also have a smaller fibroid and 2 cysts on my left ovary that are also causing a lot of pain. I’m 150 pounds, and I don’t handle stress well, so I just lost 30 pounds. I’m 35, and by myself so it’s scary. I don’t have any kids nor am I married, but I still want the option of having a child, so this is what I told them I wanted. I like my surgeon. He did the MRI and the pathology looks like everything is bening. He said because of the size and the location (it’s in the back of the wall of my uterus, and 11 cms), he may not be able to successfully do the robot, and they are prepared to do an abdominal myomectomy if that is the case. I am in pain and on Hydrocodone which helps, but does not completely alleviate the pain. My back and my pelvic area, especially the left side, hurt a lot, and constantly, which is annoying. I have zero appetite so I force myself to eat a meal once per day, and steadily I’m losing 2 – 4 pounds per week. I’m medium-sized boned, so 150 pounds is normal weight, but my tummy looks like I’m 3 months pregnant.
Can you tell me how your recovery has been? Do you have any advice that might be able to help?
Thanks, Tina
April 9, 2010 at 11:24 pm
I am 5 weeks post am and I feel great ! One thing I noticed immediately is that I feel clear headed – I retain a lot more information now. I’m not sure what that has to do with it but it has happened. I had 17 fibroids !! My doc could only see 4 on ultrasound and my uterus was big. She says they weighed about a pound – can you believe that ? But I have been losing weight. My waist is still swollen and I am not able to fit my biggest jeans yet but she said my uterus will be normal size in about 5 more months. Anyways I am so glad it is done.
One thing you ladies may want to consider – my doc suggested I at organic to try to prevent their return. The hormones in regular foods may stimulate fibroid growth. I am finding that organic foods actually taste better !
April 10, 2010 at 9:46 pm
Liza,
I just had a 10cm fibroid removed three weeks ago by a robotic assisted myomectomy. I too looked about 4-5 months pregnant at the age of 46, not a good feeling! Although the fibroid weighed about 3/4 of a pound I have lost about 5 pounds so far without trying. My thought is that I have more energy since the fibroid was requiring a large amount of blood to sustain itself. It outgrew the blood supply and actually started to degenerate (or die) in the center. I’m so glad it is gone and have one more week before I can get serious about exercise again.
June 5, 2010 at 6:31 pm
I have been diagnosed with a nine inch fibroid. I am researching doctors who perform myomectomy in the Dallas area. I am looking for a supportive Doctor who will not want to do a hysterrctomy. Has anyone had a myomectomy in the Dallas area and were you comfortable with your doctor?
June 16, 2010 at 3:24 pm
Surgery for my 10cm + surgery will be July 19th – would love to hear anyone’s comments on recovery. I will be having good ole’ AH. How did you feel pain-wise and did it really take you 4-6 weeks before you could go back to work? I have never had surgery before, so don’t really know what to expect from myself. This site has been very helpful! Thanks ~
June 16, 2010 at 8:26 pm
Hi Kimberley – I had my AH just over a year ago. I took 4 weeks off work, easing back by working 3 days the first week. To be honest, I didn’t feel great the first couple of weeks back – finding it difficult to remain sitting at my desk bound job. I probably should have taken 6 weeks off. To answer your question about the pain, it wasn’t great – but it does go away reasonably quickly and your anaethetist will give you some great drugs to help manage it. The nurses will also teach you some tricks about how to get out of the bed (not as easy as it looks after an AH!). In terms of planning I suggest you consider having a brazilian a day or two before the operation (rather than having the shave) – made my recovery a bit more comfortable! I also used a plastic chair in the shower when I first got back home as I wasn’t strong enough to stand and wash my hair. All the best for your operation!
June 17, 2010 at 4:13 pm
Hi Carolyn – thanks for the advice – I esp. like the part about using a chair in the shower. That’s a great idea. As far as the waxing… I’ve never had any except my eyebrows done! I am scared to start with a brazilian! Something to think about tho’… Nice to hear about your experience with time-frame and going back to work. Anxious to get this all over with!
July 3, 2010 at 10:45 am
Hi Everyone,
I’m new here so be gentle! I have 2 fibroids, one is 3 x 2.8×2.8 and the other is 6.1×5.6 x5.0 cm . I am 54 and about 1 1/2 post meopause. This was taken in Jan but with the pelvic ultrasound. My stomach now seems a bit bigger (not sure maybe like 3 month pregnancy look??) . I went to a regular dr who wants me to have an abdominal/pelvic ct scan and see a gastro for some tests etc. I’m pretty scared and am of course afraid of ovarian cancer. Does the ct scan for the pelvic/abdominal make sense at this point? Insurance is not so good but I want to take care of this too.
July 4, 2010 at 7:04 am
I’m having an AM in three days. I’m a bit scared. I’m looking forward to not having to deal with chronic anaemia anymore, because that really sucks.
But I’m also nervous about how long recovery is going to take. I know it’s different for everyone. I live alone and am planning to stay with a friend for a bit when I get out of the hospital, but I think I’m going to have to do quite a bit of mental work to get over having to depend on someone and ask for help, and be seen when looking like crap. (Vain, but there it is.)
My fibroid was about 10cm all around last time I had an ultrasound. And my uterus is the size of a 4-5 month pregnancy.
Does anyone else live alone and how did you handle that post-op?
July 9, 2010 at 5:24 pm
I am 54 and have decided it’s time to have the baseball-size, 2-lime size, and multiple smaller fibroids removed. My doctor is going to try to do a laproscopic hysterectomy, but may have to do the traditional surgery instead. Either way, he said that since I am healthy, I should be able to go back to work in 2 to 3 weeks, and work from home if I feel like it during that time. Has anyone ever heard of a woman returning to a desk job in 2-3 weeks?
July 11, 2010 at 11:17 am
I am 45 and have been diagnosed with a large fibroid tumor. It’s 18.5 cm x 13 cm x 10. From what the Dr said, my fibroid is growing up from my uterus and I’m wondering what that is doing for my body. My back hurts as if it’s in a vice but the most concerning for me is my belly and the fact that I can’t breathe when I lay down. I am hoping that a hysterectomy will change my life. I make absolutely no progesterone and things are constantly in need of tweaking there. I work out 3x a week with no results and I would say I have chronic fatigue. I go back on Wed to schedule surgery. My stomach feels very hard and I get full quickly when I eat. Mostly I’m just tired of feeling bad.
December 4, 2011 at 2:03 am
Your symptoms sound so close to mine! I have a large and hard abdomen. I have so much pressure and am always tired and out of breath. I was diagnosed with a 6cm fibroid 7 months ago. Now it is melon sized. I had horrible bleeding. My last period lasted 8 weeks. My doctor said I needed a hysterectomy. I had one scheduled for 11/21/11. I had my pre-op blood work done a few days earlier. My doctor told me she had to cancel my surgery because I was pregnant! I was blown away. I am 43 and have one 19 year old daughter. My doctor did an ultrasound and found that I was almost 9 weeks. She said not to worry that women have babies with fibroids all of the time. A week later I went in for another ultrasound. My baby’s heart had stopes beating. I was devastated. My doctor believes that my fibroid cut off blood supply to the baby. I asked her about trying to get pregnant again and she told me it was very difficult for women my age to get pregnant. I am confused! Didn’t I just get pregnant? And with a big fibroid and on birth control pills! She said I would need to have the fibroid removed and that there was a good chance I would end ip having to have a hysterectomy anyway. Then she sent me home to miscarry naturally. I am in a state of shock! I called the office and told them I want a D&C! I don’t want to loose my baby at home. I go in on Monday to see that doctor. I am going to tell her I want my fibroid removed if possible and that I want to try to get pregnant again. Any advice or words of wisdom?
Tammihoward@yahoo.com
July 23, 2010 at 1:04 pm
I was told I had a fibroid but it was nothing to worry about.
I’m only 5ft 3 and half but cant get below 11st 7, i go up to 12st 4 with pre-menstrual bloat then lost a few pounds.
I thought it was cos I cant exercise much anymore (now full time wheelchair user and have balance and co-ordination probs).
I was told I was high stroke risk cos of my medical problems so they are reluctant to operate unless it turns cancerous.
Someone mentioned a ‘natural way to shrink them’ what does that involve?
Thanks
October 2, 2010 at 12:31 am
Hi,
I am 45 yrs. old and have just been diagnosed with “significant fibroids on my uterus”. I don’t know if significant means several or just a few large ones. I have my first apt. with a OBGYN on Oct. 13. In the mean time, my stomach looks like I am 4 months pregnant. I hate it! None of my clothes fit, so I am having to wear dresses every day at work (I am a 5th grade teacher) or sweats/shorts around the house. I’m curious about recovery time if I have to have a hysterectomy. I’ve been doing a lot of research since my diagnosis and have learned about different ways to treat fibroids. I want to prepare mentally for the worst. I’m wondering if someone could give me an idea of how much work (school) I would have to miss if I have a hysterectomy. I would die if I had to miss more than 1 week. Does anyone think that is a realistic goal to be back teaching after taking 1 week off or am I in an ignorant fantasy land?
October 2, 2010 at 12:43 am
I think a week is exceedingly optimistic.
I had an abdominal myomectomy on a Wed and wasn’t even discharged from the hospital until Sunday morning.
Quite frankly, you’re probably going to spend at least a week walking slowly and hunched over because it hurts to move quickly or straighten up. You’re going to want to sleep a lot. It will hurt to laugh, or cough or sneeze.
It will hurt to get out of bed and get into bed. Sitting down or standing up from/to the seated position will feel painful.
I went back to work after three weeks. I was able to start leaving the house and going places on my own after two weeks, but it took a lot out of me. It’s not just pain it’s fatigue as well.
If you don’t have any choice but to try to go back after week, then I feel for you. But if you have a real choice, I don’t think you’d want to do it.
October 3, 2010 at 1:47 am
I am 6days post op for an open myomectomy. I had a 21cm pedunculated fibroid removed. Surgeon said uterus etc were all healthy and even though he left fluid in my abdomen to reduce adhesions I can already see a huge difference in my outline! I was described as 24-26wk gestation.
If you have an open procedure there is no way you’ll be anywhere near work after a week. I am incredibly fit and active, live a fab single life and nearly ended up in tears yesterday when I struggled to walk 5mins in to town and 5mins home. I then spent the afternoon/evening on the couch in a foul mood. I too teach, 16-18yr olds, I’ve been signed off for 4wks and expect to add another 2 onto that. I expect to be getting back to more normal activity levels after week 2.
I was v dismissive of friends’ stories but now I believe them through and through. The last thing you want is to be booking a repair in 12months time.
October 16, 2010 at 3:15 pm
Just had some info through from my surgeon, my fibroid was 14x12x12cm (not sure where the 21cm came from that the junior Dr told me – unless that included the stalk?) and it weighed 1432g!
October 28, 2010 at 11:08 pm
Hi all
I had a AM 2 weeks ago and am still at home recovering! I had 27 fibroids removed in total. I only found out about them when I had a scan for another stomach issue and they didnt really cause me any problems which is why they were left! However when I married 3 years ago and wanted to start a family, I was referred to my local hospital and the surgoen refused to operate and assured me I could get pregnant however it may take a bit longer than normal! He refused to operate due to the risk of bleeding and having to perform a hysterectomy.
After 2 years my doctor referred me to the fertility clinic at the same hospital and another 12 months down the line we are still not pregnant…
I paid to see a surgoen who specialises in fibroids and endo and he took one look at the paper work from my hospital and guess what….. we have no chance of getting pregnant unless they are removed.
You are most probably thinking along the same lines as me… he wants my money as he was a private clinic, NO he would perform the op on the NHS if my doctor referred me.
As I said I had the op 2 weeks ago and am on the road to recovery, and only time will tell if the surgery has worked when hopefully we get pregnant naturally.
It goes to show that fibroids can be removed if you can find a doctor who is willing to operate and save you from a hysterectomy!
I would recommend anybody getting a second opinion and not leaving it as long as we did!
November 6, 2010 at 9:42 am
Hi everyone,
I was diagnosed with 18 fibroids last year when I was travelling in Argentina. The doctor there told me that I would not be able to get pregnant unless I had them removed, and if I plan to ever have children I should have the fibroids removed in the next 2-3 years. On returning to the UK my doctor was very dismissive of this, didn’t even look at my scans and said there was no need to do anything at all.
Since then I have changed doctors due to moving to a new area, and I have also started to get worse symptoms over the last 6 months. I have a very swollen stomach, I get a lot of abdominal and pelvic pain which is aggravated by exercise (I used to run a lot and find that too painful now and this is very depressing for me) and makes intercourse incredibly difficult. I also get a lot of lower back pain. I haven’t had much bleeding, but the last time I had sex I bled incredibly afterwards and had to cancel plans to go out that evening as I was bleeding through pads so quickly. I also need to pee a lot and feel exhausted all the time. To be honest, the best I ever feel these days is uncomfortable.
I went to my doc and he referred me to a gyn and they are going to give me another ultrasound to see what’s going on with the fibroids now – have they grown etc. However, they have already told me that they are reluctant to operate to remove the fibroids due to complications with bleeding and possibly leading to hysterectomy. I do understand this, but it sounds already like I am going to struggle to convince someone how much this is affecting my life.
I am 32 and don’t have children, but would like to start trying in the next couple of years. I realise that an operation to remove my fibroids might in rare cases end up in hysterectomy, but at the moment sex is so painful that without removing the fibroids I can’t really see me being able to get pregnant anyway.
Does anyone have any advice for me on how to convince the doctors that I really need these things removed or how to go about finding another doctor for a second opinion if I end up needing one?
November 14, 2010 at 9:23 am
Hi everyone,
I’m so pleased to find this amount of useful information on this blog, all gathered from experience on the ‘other side’, not just medical theories.
I feel so let down by the UK NHS system which I’d praised and trusted until recently. Even worse, I feel stupid because I could have find more information earlier and done something for myself.
I was diagnosed with an 8cm uterus fibroid about 6 years ago. I didn’t get any information in witting from my GP and she told me I shouldn’t worry about it at all. She also told me that it is likely to shrink in menopause. I’m now 45, so I was looking forward to my menopause since I was 39!! I decided to ignore it, believing that thinking of it may psychologically make it worse (positive thinking rubbish). I didn’t even think it was important to remember the year when they were first diagnosed. My friend, who is a gynaecologist in my eastern European country told me that fibroids need to be checked at least once a year too see if and how fast they are growing. I thought that they exaggerate everything in that part of the world and didn’t insist on regular check up, although I did say that to my GP. She said that there was no need for regular scanns unless I have some new symptoms. Prior to that, I had occasional pain in abdomen when sitting down. So, I left it for about 4 years until I realised that I started to look like pregnant, over a year ago. I went to a new GP, as I moved to a different area. The GP sent me for a scan. The consultant didn’t give me many details except that I have 2 more fibroids apart from the big one and that they may be too big for key-whole operation. I hoped to get more details from my GP if they are significant. I only got a new job then and didn’t want to think of taking sick leave for an operation within my first year in job. Only recently I asked my GP about the result from a year ago. He told me that the fibroid was size of melon or 8 month pregnancy!! I was shocked. I want to have them removed asap and have an appointment with a consultant on 26th this month.
My advice to every women is, do not trust your doctors if they tell you it’s all ok and no need for regular control. At one stage they are “too small” to be taken out and only when you get subsequent symptoms they are “too large” to be removed by a less aggressive method. You have to insist on regular monitoring and you have to look into details yourself because the NHS doctors do anything to save money. I wander would the procedure be the same if I was paying privately for my health. My sister’s gynaecologist from Serbia said that, had I lived there, my fibroids would have been taken out long time ago. I think it’s disgraceful how medical care (less) can be so different in one far more developed country. I’m almost obsessed with healthy life style and food and I blame myself for being ignorant regarding this situation. I hope it is not too late to put it right and get rid of the nuisance.
June 22, 2011 at 2:59 pm
Shirley hello everyone.I just found out a month ago my fibroids about the size of golf balls. My stomach is the size of a 5month pregnacy. Iwas hurting so bad i couldn’t move. my back hurt all the time. i have 2monthly cycles every two weeks. i just bleed so heavy it runs through my clothes.They run test told me i need to have surgery, last week i went to see an ob/gyn specialist, she told me she was not concern about my stomach cramps. she was more concern about the blood clot that i had back in december.can some one tell me what do a blood clott to the lungs have to do with fibroids. i got a new gyn doctor i see her next month. hopefully i can get the surgery done.I wish you all full recovery, i am so glad yall are doing well.
July 16, 2011 at 5:07 pm
Great to find this blog…My symptoms are similar to all of you who have posted. 10cm fibroid-urinary frquency, back and leg pain, and a protruding abdomen. I was scheduled for a vag. hysterectomy but cancelled as I was was not there mentally. My OB/GYN was wonderfully supportive. So this week I went for a consultation with a Rad. Interventionalist to check out uterine artery embolization The radiologist.was wonderful and read the MRI while I was in the office. I feel confident with either doctor, but want to do what is best for my body. I’m 51 and still having periods regularly. I feel I am still in the information collecting stage….Has anyone had a 10cm fibroid embolized? Did symptoms go away? Any thoughts on vaginal hysterectomy?
July 22, 2011 at 11:56 am
I recently had a large fibroid removed. The size was 18 cm x 14 cm x 10 cm (roughly as it obviously isn’t cubical). I was surprised with the weight though – the pathology report said only 50 grams (approx .11 pounds). Given the fact that my uterus was the size of a 22 week pregnancy, I was expecting a lot more weight, especially when you hear about 5 and 6 lb fibroids smaller than mine. So obviously, density is a HUGE factor regarding fibroids.
FYI – I had an abdominal hysterectomy 2 weeks ago – my story is long and painful involving miscarriage and a stillborn – I haven’t decided yet if I’m happy with my choice, but I know age, my quality of life and blood loss weighed heavy on my decision to have the surgery. Many women I’ve spoken too say that their hysterectomy was the best decision they made, though it took a while for that realization to set in. My road to physical recovery is progressing quite nicely, though I caution those looking at a hysterectomy as an option, to make sure they are prepared mentally – given your individual circumstances, it can be a very emotional ride.
Oh – and yeh – go for the wax job – bandages can really do a number post op!
February 16, 2012 at 12:14 am
My gf just had hers removed over 9 pounds uterus included
March 24, 2012 at 11:36 am
I’m 41yrs old and have been suffering with fibroids. I saw my OB back in Sept and am going in for my surgery on April 10…..I have one 10cm fibroid and 4 smaller ones, all about size of golfball. It was recommended I have a partial hysterectomy due to the high probability of the fibroids growing back and having the same surgery again in about 5yrs. I have to have the large one removed by being cut about 4-6inches just below my bikini line and the hysterectomy is being done vaginally. My OB has said I will be off work approx 6wks, and I have a desk job. I was a very active person, gym 3-4 times a week and Zumba classes twice a week. I havent been able to go since Nov cause of the pain and lack of energy. I’ve slowly put on 8-10lbs since I stopped being active and it’s really depressing. Even cleaning my bathroom takes all my energy. I basically come home from work and sit for the night cause I am exhausted. I also had blood clots a few yrs ago so my choices are more limited so thats why I opted for the partial hysterectomy when fibroids are removed. I have 2 teenage kids and no plans on anymore….As nervous as I am, I also can’t wait to get it over with so I can get back to my routine and start enjoying life pain-free again. Reading the comments on here is def helping me!
March 24, 2012 at 11:43 am
I should also add that I am having extremely heavy periods every 15 days lasting 6-7 days a time. Loosing so much blood that my iron count is very low which contributes to my tiredness. I take 4 x 4 pills a day to help reduce the flow until I get my surgery. Thats what prompter me to go to my dr, I couldn’t deal with the huge clots and the heavy bleeding and pain…..
April 14, 2012 at 4:33 pm
I am post op day 4. Came home from hospital yesterday. All went well. Had a 5″ incision and all done abdominally. My uterus weighed 600grams (normal is 60-70grams) so he didn’t do anything vaginally. Had 12 staples and all removed before I came home. Healing well, just very sore and tender. Bruising is coming out now on tummy. Backs of my arms are all bruised from the morphine and heparin injections. Not sure why they didn’t do morphine through IV…. biggest thing to remember is to breathe when walking! Jeesh, I have to really concentrate on that, I don’t realize how much I’m holding my breathe till I’m out of breath! I have had no bleeding at all and just a small amount of discharge on day 3. The fibroids have been sent to pathology for testing and weighing but my surgeon said not to worry, everything looks fine and he’s not concerned.Hope everyone else is doing well and recovery goes well!!
July 29, 2012 at 11:13 pm
Great post, exactly what I was seeking. I hope that this website publish gets to out to
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on my facebook.
August 22, 2012 at 3:32 pm
My PCP had me do a follow up ultrasound (was diagnosed with uterine fibroids 2 years ago) and said the one large fibroid is now 10 cm and my utuerus is measuring at 17 cm. I am almost 52. Can someone convert that for me to an approximate size I can relate to? I will be following up with an OBGYN soon to gethis taken care of. I am ready to not have any more distension, reduce my GERD and fit my clothes better and just feel better overall once the recovery is underway. I have had 3 c-sections so I have a general idea of the recovery.
Thanks!
Kim C.
November 17, 2012 at 5:43 am
Hello all. I feel like I have a long, arduous.story. Though I haven’t dealt with fibroids for an extreme amount of time, I feel that getting diagnosed took longer than necessary. I am 31 now and started presenting with symptoms of fatigue and longer, heavier periods when I was 27. (I was having two periods a month lasting 8 to 10 days) I saw my gyn and informed her of several other symptoms including the ones previously mentioned. She put me on birth control to help with the bleeding. I have never been a proponent for birth control pills. I didn’t like the idea of messing with my hormones like that, but I was willing to give it a try if it would work. It didn’t. I went to my primary doctor 8 months later and had a very low hemoglobin. I was anemic to the point that I would get home from work and crash. I had gained 20 lbs in one month and since gained 30 more 175 now. (Prior to these problems I ran 2 miles 6 day a week) He told me take OTC iron (did not give direction on dosing necessary) Two months after that I went back to the GYN with even worse symptoms and they ordered an ultrasound. They found that I had several fibroids (didn’t specify how many. The said they just measured larger ones they could see on ultrasound, largest being 6 cm x 7 cm) I don’t have any kids and definitely want some which I discussed with the doctor. He said that he did not recommend surgery because I had never tried to have children and I should at least try first for 6 mths to make sure the fibroids WERE causing a problem. (I can kind of appreciate him not immediately wanting to jump into surgery) I was concerned that the fibroids should be monitored to see if and/or they how fast they may be growing. I called my OB/GYN several times over the next year and a half (including asking in person at my anual exam) to see if I should schedule a follow up ultrasound and was told it was not necessary.Being pro active I started trying to conceive and started charting to make sure i was ovulating and that the length of my luteal phase was okay. All checked out fine in that respect. Once I realized (after 6 mths of trying to conceive) that surgery may be necessary I started researching the best doctors in the area for the job. Since I want to keep my fertility intact I thought who would be better than a doctor that helps women get pregnant everyday. So, I scheduled an appointment with a Reproductive Endocrinologist. They do IVF and such. While i am not interest in that just yet I figured a doctor of this nature may be more understanding of my situation. I have to say that so far it feels that it is the best medical decision I have made. They are very compassionate, understanding and thourough. In less than 2 weeks I have had the most detailed examinations. I have had a repeat ultrasound showing the fibroids, and MRI showing exactly how many fibroid, their size and where they are (this helps to determine type of surgery needed, the MRI proved my fibroids have gotten larger) genetic blood testing to see if I am a carrier of any genetic disorders a couple of regular blood panels (cmp and cbc) and an HSG which is an x-ray done with contrast to see if my fallopian tubes are clear. I am scheduled to see the Dr. in a week and a half to discuss my surgical options (I suspect an abdominal myomectomy) and could not be more excited. Especially after reading all the stories here. My uterus is the equivalent of a 4-5 month pregnancy and I look forward to being rid of that. I left out a few details for fear that I am being long winded. I am hoping to schedule my surgery for January of 2012 and get some energy back I was one of the optimists hoping to be back to work after a week but I guess not. I do a desk job that could be done from home. Hopefully I can work that out. Worst case scenario, have short term disability that I signed up for in the hopes of getting pregnant.
December 5, 2012 at 11:11 pm
Today, I finally measured the 8-inch scar from my October hysterectomy. The lab measured what was removed (womb with fibroids): 25 cm x 21 cm x 16 cm but did not weigh or count anything. At my only post-op check-up, 2 weeks ago, my doctor said I was healing well. I avoid mingling in crowds because of my belly. I have some soreness and visible bruising (black-blue marks) as well as numbness near the cut and below my navel. I am walking around and bending but not stretching a lot.