Can Uterine Fibroids Cause Weight Gain? What You Need to Know

Let’s be honest — weight gain can be frustrating, especially when it feels like you’re doing all the right things. So when the scale creeps up and your clothes fit differently, it’s normal to wonder: What’s going on?

If you’ve been diagnosed with uterine fibroids — or even suspect you might have them — you might be asking, “Can uterine fibroids cause weight gain?” The short answer? Yes, they can — but not in the way you might think.

Let’s break it down with real answers, helpful insight, and no medical jargon overload.

What Are Uterine Fibroids, Anyway?

Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus. They’re extremely common — in fact, up to 70–80% of women will develop them by the age of 50. Most fibroids are harmless and small. But some? Not so much.

Large or multiple fibroids can lead to:

• Heavy, prolonged periods

• Bloating or pelvic pressure

• Back or leg pain

• Frequent urination

• And yes — sometimes unexpected weight gain

So… Can Fibroids Actually Make You Gain Weight?

They can. But not because they’re changing your metabolism or slowing down your body.

Here’s how it works:

1. Fibroid Size Adds Actual Physical Weight

Some fibroids can grow to the size of a grapefruit or even larger. One large fibroid can weigh several pounds on its own. Women with multiple large fibroids might carry 10 pounds or more of extra weight just from the fibroids themselves.

Think of it like carrying around a small bag of flour inside your belly. That’s not bloat — that’s real mass.

2. They Cause Bloating and Abdominal Distention

Even smaller fibroids can create a bloated or “puffy” look, especially when they push against the abdominal wall. Many women describe it as looking a few months pregnant, even if their actual weight hasn’t changed much.

This can lead to:

• A “belly bulge” that’s hard to tone down

• Frustration with how clothes fit

• Body image concerns that feel worse than the scale reflects

3. They Can Disrupt Hormones

Some fibroids grow in response to estrogen. If your hormone levels are off balance, fibroids may grow — and as they grow, they can potentially affect hunger, water retention, or even insulin sensitivity. These factors may contribute indirectly to slight weight gain or difficulty losing weight.

When Should You Be Concerned?

If your weight gain is accompanied by any of the following, it’s worth a closer look:

• Heavy or prolonged periods

• Pressure or pain in your lower abdomen

• Frequent need to urinate

• Difficulty getting pregnant

• Feeling “full” in your stomach even when you haven’t eaten much

These are all common symptoms of fibroids, and they’re your body’s way of saying: Something’s not right.

What Dr. Travis Van Meter Wants You to Know

Here at MTVIR in Dallas, Dr. Travis Van Meter sees this all the time. Women come in frustrated, confused, and looking for answers. They’ve been told to live with their symptoms or go straight to surgery — but there’s another way.

“Fibroids can absolutely contribute to weight gain and bloating,” Dr. Van Meter explains. “What matters most is understanding the root cause and treating it in a way that works for each woman’s lifestyle.”

That’s where Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) comes in.

The UFE Advantage: Shrink Fibroids, Feel Like Yourself Again

UFE is a non-surgical, outpatient procedure that targets fibroids directly. Here’s how it works:

• A tiny catheter is inserted (usually through your wrist)

• Small particles are sent to block the blood supply to fibroids

• Fibroids shrink over time — often dramatically

• Your uterus stays intact, and recovery is fast

Many women notice:

• A flatter stomach

• Reduced pressure and bloating

• Lighter periods

• Improved energy

• And yes — a few pounds gone without changing their diet

Why Women in Dallas Trust MTVIR

Dr. Van Meter and the team at MTVIR specialize in helping women find relief without surgery. Located in The Pyramids on N Central Expressway, MTVIR is convenient, compassionate, and focused on minimally invasive solutions that get you back to life faster.

Whether you’re dealing with unexplained weight gain, fibroid-related pain, or just want to explore your options, we’re here to help.

It’s Not Just About the Scale

If uterine fibroids are affecting your weight, your confidence, or your day-to-day comfort — you’re not alone. And you don’t have to live with it.

There are real solutions that don’t require surgery, hormone therapy, or weeks off work. At MTVIR, we’ll walk you through your options and help you feel like yourself again.

Looking for a fibroids clinic in Dallas?

Look no further. We have a state-of-the-art center in North Dallas, where we can perform not only consultations but also surgeries.

Find us at:

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