The symptoms of fibroids are related to the size, number, location, growth rate and whether the fibroids are degenerative. Most patients have no symptoms and most find out they have fibroids through a medical examination. Some patients may experience abnormal menstruation, abnormal vaginal discharge and discomfort in the lower abdomen. Menstrual abnormalities include increased menstrual flow, prolonged duration of each period, shortened intermenstrual cycles, irregular vaginal bleeding during non-menstrual periods and dysmenorrhoea. Abnormal vaginal discharge is mainly manifested by increased leucorrhoea, and if it is accompanied by infection or fibroid ulceration or necrosis, there may be purulent or bloody vaginal fluid with a foul odour. Discomfort in the lower abdomen is mainly characterised by lower abdominal cramping, pain, back pain and abdominal lumps. If the fibroids are large and press on the bladder and ureter, they may cause frequent urination, urgency, difficulty in urination and urine retention; if the fibroids press on the rectum, painful defecation and constipation may occur.