Uterine Fibroids Can Cause Infertility: Know How
What are Uterine Fibroids?
Fibroids are common in women of childbearing age. They are abnormal growths that form in the uterus, however they are often harmless and uterine cancer seldom results from them.
Both the size and the location of fibroids vary. Some are rather little, while others may be big and uterine-distorting. Submucosal fibroids are found inside the uterus, subserosal fibroids are found outside the uterus, and intramural fibroids are found inside the uterine wall.
Due to the fact that fibroids don’t always cause symptoms, it is possible to have them and be unaware of it. In the event that you do have fibroid symptoms, you might observe:
- Heavy or protracted menstrual cycles
- Between-period bleeding that is irregular
- A lower back ache
- Lower-back discomfort
- Sexual discomfort
Fibroids and Infertility
Fibroids are frequent. They often have no impact on your ability to become pregnant. However, they may impact fertility if you have several fibroids or if they are submucosal.
Although submucosal fibroids can make it more difficult for your uterus to facilitate conception and maintain pregnancy, having fibroids does not prevent ovulation. This kind of fibroid can occasionally result in infertility or miscarriage.
An ultrasound or MRI may be used during a pelvic exam to identify fibroids. A treatment strategy is advised for you based on the size and location of your fibroids. It’s crucial to keep a careful eye on the fibroids if you’re expecting or trying to get pregnant. The likelihood that you’ll need a caesarean section during labour and delivery increases if you have fibroids when you’re pregnant. If you have fibroids, your risk of placental abruption or preterm delivery may also be elevated.
Fibroids’ Potential Role in Infertility
Your fertility may be impacted by fibroids in a number of ways. Several instances include:
- Fibroids can obstruct fallopian tubes, making it challenging or impossible for a fertilised egg to enter the uterus and implant.
- The amount of sperm that enters the uterus may change as a result of changes in the cervix caused by fibroids.
- The uterus can change form as a result of fibroids, which can stop sperm from moving or an embryo from implanting.
- The existence of fibroids might affect the thickness of the uterine lining.
- The existence of fibroids affects the uterine cavity’s blood flow.
Outlook
Most women with fibroids are able to carry their pregnancies to term normally. However, 10% to 30% of those who have fibroids during pregnancy may develop pregnancy or birth issues connected to their fibroids, such as:
- Early pregnancy bleeding
- Presenting the breech
- Cesarean delivery
- Women with fibroids greater than five cm in diameter frequently experience pain.
- postpartum bleeding
- premature birth
- Slow work
- A strange placenta
- Cervical dilating insufficiently
The presence of fibroids does not guarantee a high-risk pregnancy. Your OB-GYN will keep a careful eye on your pregnancy and work with you to spot any potential issues. Because the foetus receives more blood during pregnancy, fibroids may occasionally shrink or even “die off” as a result.
