Uterine fibroids are among the most common non-cancerous growths in women of reproductive age. Some women with fibroids have no symptoms. Some women may have heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain or fertility problems. Women can educate themselves about the causes, symptoms and treatments for uterine fibroids and make informed choices about their reproductive health.
Understanding Uterine Fibroids
Uterine fibroids (leiomyomas or myomas) are benign tumors arising from the muscular wall of the uterus. They may differ in size, number and location. Some women have one fibroid, and some develop several fibroids of different sizes.
Fibroids can grow inside the uterine wall, protrude into the uterine cavity or grow on the outer side of uterus. While they are usually benign, larger fibroids or those within the uterine cavity can impact on menstrual health and fertility.
What Causes Uterine Fibroids?
The exact reason why uterine fibroids develop is not known. But a number of factors are thought to influence their development, including changes in hormone levels, especially estrogen and progesterone, a family history of fibroids, obesity or being overweight, early onset of menstruation and advancing age during the reproductive years.
Fibroids usually shrink after menopause, as hormone levels drop naturally.
Common Signs of Uterine Fibroids
Some women with fibroids have no symptoms at all. Symptoms may include heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain or pressure, frequent urination, lower back pain, pain with sexual intercourse, constipation, enlarged abdomen, and in some cases, difficulty conceiving or recurrent pregnancy loss.
If the symptoms persist, you should be completely evaluated by your gynecologist.
Can Uterine Fibroids Affect Fertility?
Most women with fibroids will conceive naturally without any problems. However, some fibroids, particularly those that change the shape of the uterine cavity, can affect implantation, raise the risk of miscarriage or alter the pregnancy outcomes.
Fibroids can block the fallopian tubes or alter the shape of the uterus, making it difficult to conceive. If you are infertile, you may be able to see a fertility doctor who can tell you whether the fibroids are causing the infertility and offer treatment.
How Are Uterine Fibroids Diagnosed?
The diagnosis is usually made by pelvic exam and full medical history. Depending on what is needed, your doctor might suggest a pelvic ultrasound, a transvaginal ultrasound, an MRI scan (if the situation is complex), a hysteroscopy, or a saline infusion sonography.
These tests help to determine the size, location and number of fibroids and aid in treatment planning.
Treatment Options for Uterine Fibroids
Treatment is determined by the size of the fibroids, symptoms, age and future plans for pregnancy. Conventional approaches include watchful waiting for small asymptomatic fibroids, medical therapy to control bleeding and pain, hormonal therapy in select cases, minimally invasive procedures, myomectomy (surgical removal of fibroids while preserving the uterus), hysterectomy in selected women who are done with their family and have severe symptoms
Women who are planning to have a baby often prefer fertility-sparing treatments.
How 9M Fertility Can Assist You on Your Fertility Journey
We at 9M Fertility understand that no two fertility journeys are the same. Our fertility specialists have years of experience in full assessments to identify factors that may affect conception, such as uterine fibroids. We use the most advanced diagnostic tools and evidence-based treatment protocols to design fertility treatment plans that are unique to you and designed to get you to your reproductive goals.
Whether you are considering assisted reproductive treatments or trying to conceive naturally, whatever your fertility journey, our team of specialists offer compassionate advice, fertility counseling, and ongoing support. “Our goal is to empower couples to make informed choices and improve their opportunity for a healthy pregnancy.”
Take the Next Step Towards Better Reproductive Health
Although uterine fibroids are common, they should not be ignored if they are causing symptoms or affecting fertility. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can help relieve symptoms, protect reproductive health, and improve pregnancy outcomes.
If you have symptoms of uterine fibroids or are trying to get pregnant but are having difficulty, see a fertility specialist for a full work-up and a treatment plan made especially for you.
