Fibroids and Sciatica Nerve Pain

Are Your Fibroids Secretly Causing Sciatica? Uncover the Hidden Link

If you suffer from fibroids and experience shooting, burning pain down your leg, you may be wondering if the two are connected. 

Sciatica nerve pain often occurs when fibroids grow large enough to press on the sciatic nerve that runs from your lower back down your legs. 

Read on to learn more about the link between fibroids and sciatica, and what you can do to find relief.

Can fibroids cause sciatica nerve pain?

Yes, fibroids can cause sciatica nerve pain. Fibroids are non-cancerous tumors that grow in or around the uterus. 

As they grow larger, fibroids can press on or pinch the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve runs from your lower back through your hips and buttocks and down the back of each leg. 

Continuous pressure on this nerve from a fibroid can cause the burning, shooting pain known as sciatica to radiate down your leg.

There have even been case reports of women experiencing severe unilateral lower abdominal pain and sciatica symptoms caused by a single fibroid pressing on the sciatic nerve or the broad ligament around the uterus.

Is there a link between sciatica and fibroids?

There is definitely a link between sciatica and fibroids. When fibroids grow large enough, they can compress and press against the sciatic nerve. This pinched nerve results in the telltale sciatica pain that radiates down one or both legs.

Fibroids located near or attaching to the broad ligament can also cause sciatica pain by putting direct pressure on the sciatic nerve as it passes through the pelvis. In rare cases, a rapidly enlarging pregnant uterus combined with large fibroids can suddenly compress the sciatic nerve, leading to acute sciatica pain.

Symptoms of Fibroids and Sciatica

What are the symptoms of fibroids and sciatica?

Fibroids can cause symptoms like:

• Heavy, painful periods
• Pelvic pressure and pain
• Frequent urination
• Constipation
• Lower back pain
• Leg pain

When fibroids press on the sciatic nerve, it leads to classic sciatica symptoms including:

• Burning, shooting pain radiating down the back of the leg
• Numbness or tingling in the leg
• Muscle weakness in the affected leg

The severity depends on the size, location and number of fibroids present. Compression of the sciatic nerve is most likely when fibroids grow towards the back of the uterus. Some women with small fibroids have no symptoms at all.

How do fibroid-related sciatica symptoms differ from regular sciatica?

There are a few key differences between sciatica caused by fibroids versus other conditions:

• Fibroid sciatica pain may worsen around your menstrual period when fibroids often enlarge temporarily.
• The pain tends to radiate down the back of the leg rather than just the lower back.
• Imaging tests reveal uterine fibroids as the cause of the nerve compression.
• Treating the fibroids, not just the sciatica symptoms, is needed for lasting relief.
• Symptoms often improve during pregnancy as the uterus enlarges and displaces the fibroids. But very large fibroids can also sometimes first cause sciatica in early pregnancy.
• Onset is gradual as fibroids slowly grow larger over time, unlike a sudden sciatica flare up.

Treatments for Sciatica and Fibroid Pain

There are several potential treatments for sciatica and fibroid pain:

• Medications like over-the-counter NSAIDs, muscle relaxants or prescription pain relievers can help reduce inflammation and pain. Steroid injections may also be beneficial.
• Physical therapy exercises focused on stretching and strengthening the back, hips and legs can help take pressure off the compressed sciatic nerve.
• Uterine fibroid embolization cuts off the blood supply to fibroids, shrinking their size and relieving pressure on surrounding nerves.
• Surgical procedures such as myomectomy (fibroid removal), hysterectomy or laparoscopic broad ligament resection may be necessary in some cases for long-term pain relief.
• Natural remedies like cold compresses, massage, yoga and supplements can provide additional sciatica pain relief.

Your doctor can help determine the best options based on your individual symptoms and health needs.

What provides the best relief for fibroid sciatica pain?

The best relief for fibroid-related sciatica pain often involves shrinking or removing the fibroids themselves through minimally invasive procedures:

• Uterine fibroid embolization is an effective outpatient treatment that blocks blood flow to fibroids, shrinking them up to 40-60% within 3-6 months. This takes pressure off the sciatic nerve.
• MRI-guided focused ultrasound uses targeted ultrasound waves to destroy fibroids without any incisions. This can significantly reduce fibroid-related sciatica pain.
• Endometrial ablation destroys the uterine lining to control heavy bleeding from fibroids, which can help relieve sciatica symptoms that worsen around periods.
• Laparoscopic or hysteroscopic myomectomy can surgically remove problematic fibroids through very small abdominal incisions.

Over-the-counter or prescription medications may also be used short-term for pain relief. Ultimately, treating the underlying fibroids is key to resolving the sciatica pain for good in many cases.

What causes fibroids and sciatica nerve pain?

Fibroids can cause sciatic nerve pain when they grow large enough to compress or put pressure on the sciatic nerve. Here are some key points about the causes:

• The sciatic nerve runs from the lower back, through the buttock and hips to the back of the legs. Fibroids located towards the back of the uterus are most likely to press on this nerve.
• Subserosal fibroids grow on the outer surface of the uterus. These are more prone to pushing against the sciatic nerve and surrounding pelvic nerves.
• Large fibroids in the posterior uterus can compress the nerve roots as they exit the spine and form the sciatic nerve.
• In rare cases, fibroid degeneration or sudden growth of a fibroid during pregnancy can also pinch the sciatic nerve and cause acute sciatica pain.

How to relieve sciatica nerve pain from fibroids?

To help relieve sciatic nerve pain from fibroids, try some of these tips:

• Rest with your legs elevated to take pressure off the compressed nerve. Apply cold packs to relieve pain and swelling.
• Ask your doctor about over-the-counter NSAIDs or other medications to reduce inflammation.
• Try physical therapy exercises to stretch the lower back and legs, strengthening the core muscles for support.
• Explore minimally invasive fibroid treatment options like embolization or focused ultrasound to shrink the fibroids.
• In severe cases, surgical resection of fibroids pressing on the sciatic nerve may be needed for lasting relief.
• Alternative therapies like massage, acupuncture and yoga can also aid in sciatic nerve pain management.

What exercises help with sciatica nerve pain and fibroids?

Exercise Recommendations for Sciatica Nerve Pain and Fibroids	Description
Gentle yoga with poses like child’s pose, cat-cow, and bridge pose	These yoga poses focus on stretching the back and hips, providing relief for sciatica nerve pain from fibroids.
Walking or swimming	Low-impact activities like walking and swimming help keep the legs active while avoiding high-impact stress.
Stretches such as knee-to-chest and figure 4 stretch	These stretches aim to loosen tight muscles that may be putting pressure on the sciatic nerve.
Pelvic tilts and other core strengthening moves like planks	Core-strengthening exercises, including pelvic tilts and planks, can improve back support and reduce pain.
Hamstring and lower back stretches	Specific stretches targeting the hamstring and lower back muscles can help alleviate tension on the sciatic nerve.
Applying heat with a warm compress or bath prior to exercising	Heat application before exercise can aid in muscle relaxation, enhancing the effectiveness of the exercises.

Is surgery necessary for fibroids and sciatica nerve pain?

In many cases, surgery is not necessary to treat fibroid-related sciatica pain. Less invasive approaches include:

• Fibroid embolization and focused ultrasound shrink fibroids without surgery, relieving pressure on the sciatic nerve.
• Physical therapy and lifestyle changes may provide adequate pain management for mild to moderate sciatica.
• Medications can be used short-term to reduce inflammation and pain.

However, surgical options like myomectomy or hysterectomy may be considered for severe, persistent sciatica when:

• Fibroids are too large or numerous for other treatments to be effective.
• There is clear evidence that large fibroids are compressing the sciatic nerve.
• Conservative approaches have failed to provide adequate pain relief.
• The fibroids are causing other severe symptoms that warrant surgery.

A gynecologist can best advise you if surgery is appropriate for your individual case. Less invasive keyhole surgery is preferable when possible.

Natural Remedies for Fibroid and Sciatica Pain

What are natural remedies for sciatica nerve pain and fibroids?

Some more natural remedies to help alleviate sciatica nerve pain from fibroids include:

• Massage therapy can help relax tight muscles placing pressure on the sciatic nerve. Focus on the lower back, hips and legs.
• Acupuncture may reduce sciatic nerve pain and inflammation when performed by a licensed professional. Acupressure is a DIY version using finger pressure on key points.
• Chiropractic adjustments can provide relief by realigning the spine and reducing nerve compression.
• A warm Epsom salt bath can soothe aching muscles and increase magnesium, which has anti-inflammatory benefits.
• Essential oils like lavender, chamomile, and peppermint oil rubbed on the lower back may provide localized pain relief when diluted properly.
• A low-inflammatory diet with omega-3 rich foods like salmon, avocados and walnuts can help reduce systemic inflammation.
• Stress-relieving activities like meditation, yoga, or Tai Chi can help relax muscles and reduce pain perception.
• Adequate sleep, hydration and exercise are also important for managing chronic pain.

These natural remedies can be wonderful complements to medical treatments for reducing fibroid-related sciatica pain. Discuss options with your healthcare provider to develop an integrated pain management plan.

Sciatica and Fibroids: Pregnancy Complications

Fibroids during pregnancy can negatively impact sciatic nerve pain in a few ways:

Pregnancy Complications Due to Fibroids and Sciatica	Description
Enlarged Uterus and Increased Pressure on Pelvic Nerves	During pregnancy, the enlarged uterus can exert more pressure on fibroids, leading to intensified compression of pelvic nerves, including the sciatic nerve.
Hormonal Changes and Rapid Fibroid Growth	Hormonal shifts in early pregnancy may trigger rapid growth of fibroids, resulting in sudden compression of nerves within the pelvic region.
Aggravation of Common Pregnancy Discomforts	Fibroids can worsen typical pregnancy discomforts such as back pain, constipation, and increased urinary frequency due to their presence and pressure.
Increased Risk of Complications, Including Miscarriage and Preterm Birth	Large or obstructing fibroids heighten the risk of serious complications like miscarriage, preterm birth, and obstructed labor.
Urgent Evaluation for Severe Sciatica Pain and Bleeding	In cases of severe sciatica pain, cramping, or bleeding during pregnancy, prompt medical evaluation is essential to rule out potential complications related to fibroids and sciatica.

Maintaining fibroid treatment during preconception and pregnancy is important to prevent exacerbated sciatica and other problems. Talk to your OB-GYN right away if you develop nerve pain while pregnant.

Can fibroids and sciatica affect fertility?

Yes, both fibroids and chronic sciatica nerve pain can negatively impact your fertility:

• Fibroids take up space in the uterus needed for embryo implantation and growth. They may obstruct fallopian tubes as well.
• Large fibroids can make conceiving naturally difficult and increase the risk of miscarriage or preterm birth.
• Chronic pain from fibroid-related sciatica and other symptoms may affect libido and interest in sexual activity.
• Sciatica-related immobility or activity restrictions can interfere with timed intercourse while trying to conceive.
• Pain medications for sciatica should be carefully reviewed for pregnancy safety when trying to conceive.

Working with a fertility specialist is recommended for women with fibroids and sciatica trying to get pregnant. Treating both conditions can greatly improve your chances.

Prevention and Risk Factors

How to prevent fibroids and sciatica nerve pain

To help prevent developing fibroids that could lead to sciatica nerve pain:

• Maintain a healthy weight to avoid excess pressure on the back and pelvis.
• Follow a low-inflammatory diet rich in omega-3s, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory spices.
• Stay active with regular low-impact exercise like yoga, swimming and walking.
• Limit alcohol, caffeine and red meat intake which are linked to fibroid growth.
• Manage stress effectively through meditation, therapy, journaling or other methods.
• Use hormone-free contraception since hormonal imbalance worsens fibroids.
• Get regular gynecological check ups to monitor for early fibroid development.
• Seek treatment quickly for any chronic nerve pain symptoms to prevent worsening.

What increases the risks of fibroids and sciatica?

Some key risk factors for developing troublesome fibroids that can cause sciatica include:

Risk Factors for Fibroids and Sciatica Development	Description
Genetics – Family History	Having a mother or sister with fibroids increases the risk of developing troublesome fibroids that may lead to sciatica.
Being Overweight or Obese	Being overweight or obese is a risk factor for fibroids, which can subsequently lead to sciatica in some cases.
Early Onset of Menstrual Periods	An early onset of menstrual periods is associated with an elevated risk of developing fibroids that may cause sciatica.
Nulliparity (Never Giving Birth)	Women who have never given birth are at increased risk of developing fibroids that could lead to sciatic nerve pain.
Vitamin D Deficiency	Vitamin D deficiency is linked to fibroids, and its presence can contribute to the development of sciatica as a result.
Severe Stress Levels	High levels of stress are considered a risk factor for fibroids, potentially leading to sciatica-related complications.
Regular Consumption of Red and Processed Meats	A diet regularly rich in red and processed meats is associated with an increased risk of developing fibroids and sciatica.

For sciatica unrelated to fibroids, risk is increased by:

• Older age
• Degenerative disc disease
• Lifting heavy objects incorrectly
• Prolonged sitting or driving
• Spinal arthritis and stenosis
• Diabetes, thyroid issues and other diseases

See your doctor promptly if you experience warning signs of fibroids or sciatica for evaluation.

In Conclusion

We hope this guide provided helpful information about the connection between uterine fibroids and sciatic nerve pain. While fibroids certainly are not the only cause of sciatica, they can sometimes compress the sciatic nerve and lead to radiating leg pain. 

Working with a skilled gynecologist and using both medical and natural therapies allows most women to manage fibroid-related sciatica successfully. Kaly offers online gynecology consultations to conveniently answer your questions and help develop a treatment plan.

Sign up for Kaly Today! 

Dealing with chronic health conditions can feel lonely, but Kaly’s compassionate team of physicians and robust telehealth platform are here to support you. Kaly makes it easy to connect with top-rated OB-GYNs, have private online consultations, and get personalized care from the comfort of your home.

Through Kaly, you can:

Find and schedule appointments with verified gynecologists who match your needs using Kaly’s advanced provider matching technology. Read real patient reviews to choose the right doctor for you.

Have convenient telemedicine visits with OB-GYN specialists via phone, tablet or computer. Kaly provides all the necessary intake forms and visit preparation to streamline virtual care.

Privately discuss symptoms, review test results, and develop customized treatment plans without leaving home. Kaly’s physicians take the time to understand your lifestyle and priorities.

Access compassionate support and expert second opinions for complex conditions like fibroids and sciatica pain. You don’t have to struggle alone.

Take control of your women’s health and sign up today. Join the Kaly community where compassionate care meets cutting-edge telehealth. Invest in yourself and your wellbeing with Kaly.