Fibroids are benign growths that form in a woman’s uterus. These growths can be microscopic, pea-sized nodules or big tumours that can change the morphology of the uterus. They are formed of smooth muscle tissue. Up to 80% of women get fibroids by the time they turn 50, making them a rather prevalent condition.
Numerous symptoms, such as painful periods, heavy menstrual bleeding, and pelvic pain, can be brought on by fibroids. In some circumstances, fibroids can also have an impact on a woman’s capacity to become pregnant and bring it to term. Read ahead to learn more about Fibroids in this article especially curated by top-notch experts specializing in Fertility at Surya fertility clinics
The size and form of the uterus might be impacted by fibroids.
When uterine fibroids grow, they may cause the uterus to become swollen and warped. As a result, the environment in which a fertilized egg implants and develops may not be favourable. Fibroids can also obstruct sperm migration inside the uterus, which makes fertilization more challenging.
Fallopian tubes can get blocked by fibroids.
Fibroids may occasionally develop close to the fallopian tubes and restrict them. This may stop sperm from fertilizing eggs as they pass through the tubes. Even if fertilization takes place, it’s possible that the fertilised egg won’t be able to reach the uterus and implant, which could result in an ectopic pregnancy.
Fibroids may impact the uterus’s blood flow.
Fibroids can press against the uterine blood veins and limit the flow of blood through them. Because of this hindered blood supply to the uterus, the growth and implantation of the fertilised egg may be hampered. In some circumstances, fibroids can also contribute to a miscarriage by causing the placenta to separate from the uterus.
Obstetrical difficulties can be brought on by fibroids.
Even if a woman with fibroids is able to become pregnant, pregnancy difficulties may be more likely for her. Preterm labour and delivery may result from the uterus’s abnormal uterine contractions brought on by fibroids. Placental abruption, a dangerous disorder in which the placenta separates from the uterus prior to delivery, is another risk factor for fibroids.
Fibroids treatment
There are various treatment options available if you have fibroids and are having problems getting pregnant. Depending on the size, the optimal therapy will be chosen with concerns to your age and general health, as well as the number, size, and location of your fibroids.
Attentive waiting
Your doctor could advise watchful waiting if your fibroids are minor and not producing any symptoms. This entails routinely evaluating your fibroids with ultrasounds to determine whether they are developing or posing any risks.
Medications
Numerous medicines can be used to reduce fibroids or treat their symptoms. These include gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists, which reduce oestrogen production, and hormonal contraceptives like birth control pills and intrauterine devices. These are temporary solutions and generally not advised for patients who plan on conceiving
Surgery
Your doctor could advise surgery if your fibroids are causing severe symptoms or if they are preventing you from getting pregnant. Myomectomy, which includes removing the fibroids while keeping the uterus intact, and vaginal hysterectomy which entails the whole uterus being removed are the two most popular surgical procedures. The advent of minimally invasive procedures has made it possible to treat fibroids with added precision and efficacy. Laparoscopy is available for fibroids located in the wall and outer layers of the uterus and hysteroscopic surgery can help to treat fibroids inside the uterine cavity
Technologies for assisted reproduction
Your doctor could suggest assisted reproductive techniques like in vitro fertilisation (IVF) if fibroids are preventing you from becoming pregnant naturally. IVF entails taking eggs out of your ovaries and fertilising them in a lab using sperm retrieved from the male partner. After fertilization, the resultant embryos are put into your uterus.
In summary, fibroids are a prevalent condition that may make it more difficult for a woman to become pregnant and carry a child to term. If you have been told that you have fibroids and are having difficulty becoming pregnant, it’s crucial to discuss the ideal course of action with the best Gynecologists in Mumbai for your particular circumstance. It is pertinent to note that fibroids don’t always need to be removed and, many women with fibroids can conceive and have good pregnancies with the correct therapy.