[53F] Experiencing intermittent pelvic heaviness and palpable lump

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, here are a few possibilities:

• Uterine Fibroids: These are noncancerous growths of the uterus that often appear during childbearing years. They are not associated with an increased risk of uterine cancer and almost never develop into cancer. Fibroids can range in size, from seedlings that are undetectable by the human eye to bulky masses that can distort and enlarge the uterus. Symptoms can include a feeling of heaviness or fullness in the lower abdomen, and a lump in the uterus area.

  • Treatment options for fibroids include medication to control symptoms, and various types of surgery depending on the size and location of the fibroids.

• Ovarian Cysts: These are fluid-filled sacs or pockets in or on the surface of an ovary. Many women have ovarian cysts at some time. Most ovarian cysts present little or no discomfort and are harmless. The majority disappears without treatment within a few months. However, ovarian cysts — especially those that have ruptured — can cause serious symptoms which include a feeling of heaviness in the abdomen.

  • Treatment options depend on your age, the type and size of your cyst, and your future pregnancy plans. It can range from watchful waiting to surgery.

• Pelvic Organ Prolapse: This occurs when a pelvic organ, such as your bladder, drops (prolapses) from its normal place in your lower belly and pushes against the walls of your vagina. This can happen when the muscles that hold your pelvic organs in place get weak or stretched from childbirth or surgery. Symptoms can include a feeling of heaviness or fullness in your pelvis.

  • Treatment options include lifestyle changes, pelvic floor muscle exercises, a pessary (a device inserted into the vagina to support the pelvic organs), or surgery.

Please note that these are only possibilities. It's important to see a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis.

What you can do

1. Schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider: They can perform a physical examination and may order imaging tests, such as an ultrasound, to evaluate the lump in your uterus area.
2. Keep a symptom diary: Note when you feel the heavy sensation, how long it lasts, and any other symptoms you experience. This information can be helpful to your healthcare provider.
3. Stay active and maintain a healthy weight: Regular physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight can decrease your risk of developing conditions such as fibroids and pelvic organ prolapse.

What you should look out for

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience:

• Severe or sharp pelvic pain
• Heavy or painful periods
• Difficulty emptying your bladder
• Pain during sexual intercourse
• Unexplained weight loss
• Changes in bowel movements
• Any other symptoms that concern you

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may not apply to your situation. Always consult with a healthcare provider for accurate information.