How Uterine Fibroids Can Quietly Disrupt a Woman’s Sex Life – and What to Do About It

By Dr. David Samadi

For many women, intimacy and sexual enjoyment are essential aspects of life and relationships. But what happens when sex becomes painful or desire fades away? While menopause or hormonal shifts are often blamed, there may be another, less obvious culprit: uterine fibroids.

These non-cancerous growths, known as uterine fibroids, are more common than you might think. They can silently interfere with a woman’s well-being—including her sex life—without her even knowing they’re there. In fact, up to 60 to 80 percent of women will develop fibroids by the age of 50, yet many remain undiagnosed.

Let’s break down what uterine fibroids are, how they can affect sexual health, and most importantly, what can be done to feel confident and connected again.

What Are Uterine Fibroids?

Uterine fibroids are benign (non-cancerous) muscular tumors that form in or around the uterus. Also known medically as leiomyomas, they vary in size from a tiny seed to something as large as a melon. Some women have just one; others may develop several.

Fibroids are most common during a woman’s 40s and early 50s, just when many women are already facing hormonal changes.

Types of fibroids include:

• Intramural: grows within the wall of the uterus (most common type).
• Submucosal: grows into the uterine cavity.
• Subserosal: grows on the outer surface of the uterus.
• Pedunculated: grows on a stalk inside or outside the uterus.

Common Symptoms of Fibroids

While many fibroids go unnoticed, others can cause frustrating symptoms such as:

• Heavy or prolonged periods
• Pelvic pressure or pain
• Frequent urination
• Constipation or back pain
• Bloating or visible abdominal swelling
• Fatigue (especially if anemia develops from blood loss)

Emotionally, fibroids can take a significant toll. Many women report feeling anxious, depressed, or self-conscious about their changing bodies. It’s important to recognize that these feelings are valid and part of the overall impact of fibroids.

And while fibroids are not cancerous, any sudden or fast-growing uterine mass after menopause should be checked by a doctor.

The Overlooked Link Between Fibroids and Sexual Health

When it comes to sex, fibroids can cause problems that women might not immediately associate with the condition. Here’s how:

1. Painful Intercourse

Fibroids near the cervix or within the uterus can press on surrounding tissues, making sex uncomfortable or even painful. Some women may also experience spotting or bleeding afterward.

2. Decreased Sex Drive

Hormonal imbalances, particularly elevated estrogen levels common in women with fibroids, can dampen libido. Chronic discomfort and emotional distress don’t help either.

3. Disruptive Periods

Irregular or heavy periods lasting more than 7–10 days can make Intimacy feel off-limits or uncomfortable for long stretches.

4. Fatigue and Low Energy

Anemia from blood loss can cause tiredness, headaches, and low stamina—hardly a recipe for a healthy sex life.

5. Constant Urge to Urinate

A fibroid pressing on the bladder can lead to frequent bathroom trips and a feeling of urgency, making spontaneous Intimacy difficult.

6. Low Self-Esteem

Bloating and an enlarged abdomen can affect body image. Feeling unattractive or uncomfortable with one’s appearance may reduce desire or openness to intimacy.

Finding Relief and Rekindling Intimacy

The good news? Women don’t have to accept a diminished sex life as the norm. Here are ways to take back control:

1. Redefine Intimacy

Sex doesn’t have to mean intercourse. Explore other ways to build closeness—emotional connection, sensual touch, and non-penetrative Intimacy can all strengthen bonds.

2. Explore New Positions

Pain during sex might be position-specific. Don’t be afraid to try new approaches. Sometimes, a small change can make a big difference.

3. Consider Treatment: Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)

UFE is a non-surgical, minimally invasive procedure that has shown promising results. It blocks blood flow to fibroids, causing them to shrink over time. Many women report less pain, increased libido, and improved sexual satisfaction after UFE. This treatment offers hope for a better quality of life.

Studies show approximately 80% of women who underwent UFE experienced better sexual function, reduced discomfort, and greater enjoyment within a year of treatment.

When to Talk to Your Doctor

If you’re experiencing painful sex, fatigue, irregular bleeding, or urinary frequency, it’s time to speak up. These symptoms are not just part of “getting older,” and you deserve to feel good in your body and in your relationships.

Don’t let fibroids quietly steal joy from your most intimate moments. With the proper support and treatment, it’s entirely possible to reclaim sexual well-being and confidence.

Dr. David Samadi is the Director of Men’s Health and Urologic Oncology at St. Francis Hospital in Long Island. He’s a renowned and highly successful board certified Urologic Oncologist Expert and Robotic Surgeon in New York City, regarded as one of the leading prostate surgeons in the U.S., with a vast expertise in prostate cancer treatment and Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Prostatectomy.  Dr. Samadi is a medical contributor to NewsMax TV and is also the author of two books, Prostate Cancer, Now What? A Practical Guide to Diagnosis, Treatment, and Recovery and The Ultimate MANual, Dr. Samadi’s Guide to Men’s Health and Wellness, available online both on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Visit Dr. Samadi’s websites at robotic oncology and prostate cancer 911.