Can Fibroids Cause Weight Gain? Understanding the Link Between Fibroids and the Scale

If you’ve been gaining weight and can’t quite figure out why—especially around your midsection—you’re not imagining things. For many women, the culprit isn’t diet or lifestyle. It’s fibroids.

Fibroids are more than just a gynecological inconvenience. These non-cancerous growths can cause a variety of symptoms, and for some women, weight gain is part of the picture. But how, exactly, do fibroids affect body weight—and what can you do about it?

What Are Fibroids, and Who Gets Them?

Uterine fibroids are benign tumors that grow in the uterus. They’re extremely common, affecting up to 70–80% of women by age 50. While not all fibroids cause symptoms, some grow large enough—or numerous enough—to affect your body’s shape, size, and even its weight.

Women in their 30s and 40s, especially those of African-American descent, are more likely to develop fibroids. Hormonal factors, genetics, and lifestyle can all play a role.

Yes—Fibroids Can Cause Weight Gain

But not in the way you might expect.

Fibroids don’t cause a slowing metabolism or hormonal weight gain like hypothyroidism. Instead, they contribute to actual physical mass. Here’s how:

Physical Weight of the Fibroids

Large fibroids can weigh several pounds. A single fibroid can grow to the size of a grapefruit—or larger—and some women have multiple fibroids that combine to weigh five to ten pounds or more. This is actual added body weight.

Increased Abdominal Girth

Fibroids can cause the lower abdomen to protrude, mimicking weight gain or even pregnancy. You may notice pants fitting tighter or a persistent “bloated” feeling that doesn’t go away with dietary changes.

Fluid Retention and Bloating

While fibroids don’t directly cause water retention, the pressure they place on surrounding organs can lead to digestive issues, bloating, and inflammation—all of which can make the body look and feel heavier.

Anemia and Fatigue

Heavy periods caused by fibroids can lead to anemia, fatigue, and decreased activity. If you’re too exhausted to exercise, this may contribute to actual weight gain over time—not from fibroids directly, but as a consequence.

Common Symptoms Alongside Weight Gain

If fibroids are contributing to your weight concerns, you’re likely also experiencing one or more of these symptoms:

• Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding

• Pelvic pain or pressure

• Constipation or bloating

• Frequent urination

• Back pain

• Pain during intercourse

• Enlarged abdomen

When to Be Concerned About Fibroid Weight Gain

If you’ve gained weight without changing your eating or exercise habits—and especially if the gain is localized around the lower abdomen—it’s worth getting checked for fibroids.

A gynecologist or interventional radiologist can confirm the diagnosis with a pelvic exam and imaging tests like ultrasound or MRI.

How to Treat Fibroid-Related Weight Gain

If fibroids are the cause, shrinking or removing them can help reduce abdominal mass and overall weight. At MTVIR in Dallas, we specialize in a safe, non-surgical treatment called Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE).

What Is UFE?

UFE is a minimally invasive procedure that blocks blood flow to the fibroids, causing them to shrink. It’s performed through a tiny catheter (usually through the wrist), and most patients return home the same day.

Why UFE May Help With Weight and Body Confidence

By shrinking the fibroids:

• Your belly may flatten

• Pelvic pressure and bloating improve

• You may feel more energized as heavy bleeding resolves

• Some women drop several pounds after treatment

UFE doesn’t just treat symptoms—it can restore confidence and quality of life.

Other Treatment Options

If UFE isn’t right for you, there are still options:

• Myomectomy (surgical removal of fibroids)

• Hormonal therapy to manage symptoms

• Lifestyle changes to reduce estrogen levels (which fibroids feed on)

At MTVIR, we walk you through all the options and help you decide what’s best.

Take the First Step Toward Feeling Like You Again

If you suspect fibroids may be affecting your weight or your confidence, you don’t have to wait for things to get worse. Our team at MTVIR in Dallas specializes in diagnosing and treating fibroids with care and precision.

Visit us at 9101 N Central Expy, Suite 550, Dallas, TX 75225
Call (469) 458-9800
Or contact us here to schedule a consultation.