Uterine fibroids are benign tumors (non-cancerous) that form within or around the uterus. They are relatively common in women of childbearing age, and most often are asymptomatic (do not produce symptoms) in most women. However, in certain situations, fibroids can cause infertility or poor pregnancy outcomes. In order for women who are trying to conceive or are currently pregnant to understand how uterine fibroids may affect their reproductive health, it is important to understand how fibroids affect fertility. In this article, we will discuss about uterine fibroids in detail.
Effects of Fibroids on Fertility
Fibroids do not necessarily affect fertility; however, fibroids can impact fertility depending on their size, number, and location. Submucosal fibroids, located inside the uterine cavity, are the type of fibroids that are the most likely to impact fertility. By protruding into the uterine cavity, submucosal fibroids can change or deform the endometrium, or lining of the uterus, making implantation of an embryo difficult.
Fibroids could also block the fallopian tubes, thereby preventing sperm from reaching an egg. In addition to the above, large fibroids can lead to changes in the shape of the uterus, reductions in the blood supply to the endometrial lining, and/or the development of inflammation, which could all contribute to lower rates of conception. In a limited number of patients, fibroids may cause problems with the contractility of the uterus. This could lead to problems with sperm or embryo transport.
Pregnancy Complications Involving Fibroids
There are a lot of women who have uterine fibroids and can continue with their pregnancy without having issues. However, fibroids can increase the risk of having certain types of complications when pregnant. The number of fibroids could potentially increase during your pregnancy due to your having more estrogen production during your pregnancy, which can cause you to have pain or pressure, or discomfort.
Examples of possible complications associated with pregnancy may include miscarriage (most commonly in early pregnancy) and preterm labour due to the fact that the uterus doesn’t have enough space for the baby to grow and develop properly. Fibroids could also potentially affect how the baby is positioned in the uterus, thereby resulting in the baby being in a breech position. In certain cases, having fibroids during your pregnancy can lead to complications with the placenta, such as placental abruption or decreased blood flow to the fetus.
Having larger uterine fibroids may potentially increase the chance of needing a cesarean section if the fibroid obstructs the birth canal or interferes with the normal labour process. After giving birth, fibroids may contribute to excessive bleeding due to poor contraction of the uterus.
When Is Treatment for Fibroids Necessary?
Treatment is based on the presence of symptoms, overall fertility goals, and plans for future pregnancies. Any woman experiencing infertility, having had a number of miscarriages, experiencing heavy periods, or pelvic pain should speak with either their physician or a gynecologist. If you are in the planning stage of having a baby, your physician may recommend treatment for your fibroids if they would interfere with your ability to conceive or have a successful pregnancy.
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