What is the typical presentation of uterine fibroids?

Uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomas, are non-cancerous growths of the uterus that often present with specific symptoms, one of the most common being menorrhagia, or heavy menstrual bleeding. Women with fibroids may experience increased menstrual flow or prolonged periods due to the fibroids' ability to disrupt normal uterine function and anatomy. The presence of these tumors can distort the endometrial lining and lead to excessive bleeding.

In contrast, while painful urination can occur if fibroids exert pressure on the bladder, it is not a typical symptom. Night sweats and weight gain are not classic symptoms associated with uterine fibroids; these may be indicative of other health issues or hormonal imbalances rather than directly related to the presence of fibroids. Thus, menorrhagia stands out as the primary and most characteristic symptom linked to uterine fibroids.