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Uterine Cramping After Fibroid Removal

Uterine fibroids, which are benign tumors that grow on the uterine wall, can be a scary experience for a woman because they can cause cramping and pain. According to the Boca Raton Radiology Group, uterine fibroids are common. Approximately 50 percent of women may develop fibroids, with up to 30 percent of those women being symptomatic, according to the radiology group. The good news is that treatments are available that can shrink and remove fibroids. When the fibroids are removed, some cramping is normal and can be managed.

  1. Duration

    • Don't worry about the cramping lasting a long time. According to CRL Surgical and Radiology Associates, most people are able to be up and around doing normal activities within a few days after having a uterine fibroid embolization procedure to shrink the fibroids. Patients report the most severe cramping occurs the first day after the procedure. If you don't want to miss a lot of work or are concerned about missing out on family activities, schedule the procedure for later on in the week. That way, you will have the weekend to recuperate and may have to take only one or two days off from work.

    Medications

    • Ask your doctor what medications you can take and for how long you can take them. Since the most severe cramps and pain are experienced immediately after the procedure for about 24 hours, your doctor may give you pain medication intravenously. After you are discharged, you can take an oral medication to keep the cramps and pain under control while you recover.

    Nausea

    • Have a throw-up dish handy, or stay close to a bathroom. For the first 24 hours after surgery, you may feel nauseated from the anesthesia or other medications related to the procedure or to control cramping and pain. This is normal. While you are in the hospital, ask your doctor for anti-nausea medication and let the nurses know whenever your stomach is sensitive so they can help you stay hydrated and well-nourished.

    Heat

    • Use a heating pad or warm water bottle on your abdomen to relieve the cramps. You also can run warm water from a detachable showerhead onto your abdomen if your doctor has given you the okay to shower. The warmth helps the muscles of the uterus relax, thereby alleviating cramping and associated pain.

    Bathroom Breaks

    • Use the restroom as often as you can. The bladder is located on the floor of the pelvis, very near the uterus. In fact, the urethra actually is partly embedded in the wall of the vagina. A full bladder can put pressure on the uterus, which is sensitive from the procedure. If you go to the bathroom, this pressure is relieved and the cramping may not be as bad.

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