Do Uterine Fibroids Affect Fertility and Pregnancy?

Uterine fibroids are one of the most common gynecological conditions, affecting up to 80% of women by the age of 50. While many women live with fibroids without experiencing any symptoms, for others, these non-cancerous growths in the uterus can cause significant discomfort and complications, including concerns about fertility and pregnancy.

If you’ve been diagnosed with uterine fibroids or suspect you may have them, you may be wondering how they could affect your ability to conceive or carry a pregnancy to term. While fibroids can influence fertility and pregnancy in some women, many women with fibroids go on to have successful pregnancies. Below, we’ll explore the relationship between fibroids, fertility, and pregnancy and what you can do to improve your chances of having a healthy pregnancy.

How Do Uterine Fibroids Affect Fertility?

Fibroids are often asymptomatic, meaning many women with fibroids may not even know they have them. However, for some women, fibroids can impact fertility, making it more difficult to get pregnant. This is more likely when fibroids are large or located in certain areas of the uterus.

Fibroids and Fertility Challenges

Fibroids can affect fertility in several ways:

1. Obstructing the Fallopian Tubes or Cervix
   Fibroids that grow near or within the fallopian tubes may block the passage of the egg, preventing it from reaching the uterus for fertilization. Additionally, fibroids near the cervix can obstruct the opening to the uterus, making it more difficult for sperm to reach the egg.
   
2. Altering the Shape of the Uterus
   Fibroids that grow within the uterine cavity, particularly those called submucosal fibroids, can alter the shape of the uterus. This can affect the embryo’s ability to implant properly in the uterine lining, which may lead to implantation failure or early miscarriage.
   
3. Disrupting Blood Flow to the Uterus
   Large fibroids or multiple fibroids can disrupt the blood supply to the uterine lining. Reduced blood flow may prevent the uterine lining from becoming thick enough to support a fertilized egg, making it harder for an embryo to implant.
   
4. Hormonal Imbalance
   Fibroids are hormone-sensitive and can produce excess estrogen, which may disrupt the delicate hormonal balance needed for successful conception.
   

Not All Fibroids Impact Fertility

It’s important to note that not all fibroids interfere with fertility. Many women with fibroids are able to conceive without difficulty, especially if the fibroids are small, not obstructing the fallopian tubes or cervix, and located outside the uterine cavity. Even women with larger fibroids may still have a chance of conceiving naturally.

If you’re having difficulty getting pregnant and have fibroids, it’s worth discussing with your doctor whether your fibroids may be contributing to your fertility challenges. In some cases, removing fibroids through a procedure called myomectomy can improve fertility outcomes.

How Do Uterine Fibroids Affect Pregnancy?

If you become pregnant with fibroids, you may be concerned about how they will affect your pregnancy. While many women with fibroids carry their pregnancies to term without complications, fibroids can sometimes present certain risks during pregnancy.

Potential Risks of Fibroids During Pregnancy

1. Increased Risk of Miscarriage
   Fibroids, especially those that are located within the uterine cavity (submucosal fibroids), may increase the risk of miscarriage in the early stages of pregnancy. This is more likely if the fibroid affects the implantation site of the embryo or causes changes in the uterine lining.
   
2. Preterm Labor
   Large fibroids or fibroids that distort the shape of the uterus can sometimes lead to preterm labor. This can occur because fibroids take up space in the uterus, potentially causing the uterus to contract prematurely. However, this is not always the case, and many women with fibroids carry their pregnancies to term without preterm labor.
   
3. Placental Abruption
   In rare cases, fibroids can cause the placenta to detach from the uterine wall, a condition known as placental abruption. This can lead to bleeding and may affect the supply of nutrients and oxygen to the baby. Fibroids located in the fundus (upper part of the uterus) are more likely to be associated with this complication.
   
4. Obstructed Labor
   If fibroids are located near the cervix or birth canal, they can block the path for the baby during delivery, potentially leading to a need for a cesarean section.
   
5. Fetal Growth Restrictions
   In rare cases, fibroids may interfere with the baby’s growth, especially if they disrupt the blood flow to the placenta. This could result in fetal growth restrictions, where the baby’s growth is slower than expected.
   

Managing Fibroids During Pregnancy

If you have fibroids and become pregnant, your healthcare provider will closely monitor your condition through regular ultrasounds to track the size and location of the fibroids and assess their potential impact on your pregnancy. While most fibroids do not cause significant problems during pregnancy, it’s important to keep an open line of communication with your healthcare team and follow their recommendations for monitoring and care.

Treatment Options for Women With Fibroids Who Want to Conceive

If you’re struggling with fibroids and want to conceive, there are several treatment options that can help improve your chances of a healthy pregnancy:

1. Myomectomy
   For women with large fibroids or fibroids that are blocking the fallopian tubes or distorting the uterine cavity, a myomectomy (surgical removal of fibroids) may be recommended. This procedure can help restore the natural shape of the uterus and improve the chances of conception. For women who wish to preserve fertility, laparoscopic or robotic myomectomy may be an option for removing fibroids with minimal recovery time.
   
2. Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)
   While UFE is a highly effective treatment for relieving fibroid symptoms, it’s generally not recommended for women who want to get pregnant. UFE involves blocking blood flow to the fibroids, causing them to shrink. However, it’s important to understand that UFE can impact fertility and is typically considered for women who do not plan to conceive.
   
3. Fertility Treatments
   For women with fibroids who are struggling with fertility, in vitro fertilization (IVF) or other fertility treatments may be recommended, depending on the location and size of the fibroids. In some cases, fibroids may be removed before IVF treatment to increase the chances of a successful pregnancy.
   

Staying Informed About Fertility and Pregnancy With Fibroids

While uterine fibroids can affect fertility and pregnancy in some women, it’s important to remember that many women with fibroids can still conceive and have successful pregnancies. Early diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and close monitoring can help manage any risks and improve the chances of a healthy pregnancy.

If you have fibroids and are planning to conceive, work closely with your healthcare provider to explore the best treatment options for you. Whether you choose myomectomy, manage symptoms with medication, or consider fertility treatments, there are options available to help you achieve your goals of starting or growing your family.

1Fibroid Is Here to Support You in New York

For women struggling with symptoms of fibroids, 1Fibroid in New York is here to support you so you can help you regain control over your health and improve your overall quality of life. Call 212-991-9991 today to learn more about UFE and other options, and ask how we can support you on your journey to better health and symptom relief.