Fibroids, also called uterine leiomyomas or myomas, are noncancerous growths in the uterus that often appear during childbearing years. Many women with fibroids wonder if they can still conceive. This blog will explain the relationship between fibroids and fertility, addressing common concerns and offering helpful insights.
What Are Fibroids?
Fibroids are benign tumours that grow from the muscle tissue of the uterus. They can vary in size, from very small to large enough to distort the shape of the uterus. Fibroids are classified by their location in the uterus:
- Intramural Fibroids: Found within the muscular wall of the uterus.
- Submucosal Fibroids: Grow into the inner cavity of the uterus.
- Subserosal Fibroids: Extend from the outer surface of the uterus.
How Do Fibroids Affect Fertility?
Not all fibroids affect a woman’s ability to conceive. However, their size, number, and location can have an impact:
- Intramural Fibroids: Usually, small intramural fibroids don’t interfere with fertility. Larger ones can change the shape of the uterine cavity, making it harder for an embryo to implant and increasing the risk of miscarriage.
- Submucosal Fibroids: These are most likely to affect fertility because they grow into the uterine cavity, where they can interfere with embryo implantation and increase the risk of pregnancy loss.
- Subserosal Fibroids: These generally don’t affect fertility unless they become very large and press on other organs.
Can You Still Get Pregnant with Fibroids?
Yes, many women with fibroids can still conceive naturally and have healthy pregnancies. The ability to conceive depends on the fibroids’ size, number, and location, as well as the woman’s overall health.
Diagnosing and Treating Fibroids
If you have fibroids and want to get pregnant, it’s important to see a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation. Here are some options:
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- Imaging Tests: Ultrasound and MRI can help find out the size, number, and location of fibroids.
- Medications: Hormonal treatments can shrink fibroids and relieve symptoms, but they aren’t usually recommended if you are trying to conceive because they prevent ovulation.
Surgical Options
- Myomectomy: Removes fibroids but preserves the uterus. It’s often recommended for women who want to maintain fertility.
- Hysteroscopic Myomectomy: Minimally invasive surgery for removing submucosal fibroids.
- Laparoscopic Myomectomy: Minimally invasive surgery for smaller fibroids.
- Non-Surgical Options: Treatments like uterine artery embolisation and MRI-guided focused ultrasound are less common for women wanting to conceive, as their effects on fertility aren’t well understood.
Managing Pregnancy with Fibroids
If you are pregnant and have fibroids, you will need careful monitoring. While many women have no issues, fibroids can increase the risk of:
- Pain: Fibroids can cause discomfort, especially if they grow larger during pregnancy.
- Placental Problems: Increased risk of placental abruption or placenta previa.
- Preterm Birth: Higher chance of preterm labour.
Fibroids can present challenges to conceiving and pregnancy, but many women with fibroids successfully conceive and have healthy babies. Early diagnosis and a personalised treatment plan are key to managing fibroids and supporting fertility. If you have fibroids and are planning to become pregnant, talk to your healthcare provider to develop a plan that works for you.
For more information, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help you navigate your fertility journey and provide the support you need.
