#femmenest

Fibroids and Fertility

Fibroids are non-cancerous tumors that grow in the uterus. They are very common, with up to 80% of women developing them by age 50. While fibroids are not harmful, they can cause many symptoms, including heavy bleeding, pain, and infertility. This article will explore the relationship between fibroids and fertility and what you need to know if you are considering pregnancy.

What Are Fibroids?

Fibroids are growths that develop in the uterine muscle. They can vary in size and number, from small pea-sized nodules to large tumors that can distort the shape of the uterus.

Fibroids are often classified according to their location in the uterus:

Submucosal fibroids grow in the inner lining of the uterus and can protrude into the uterine cavity.

Intramural fibroids grow within the uterine wall and can cause the uterus to expand.

Sub-serosal fibroids grow on the outer wall of the uterus and can protrude into the abdominal cavity.

Pedunculated fibroids are attached to the uterus by a stalk.

What Causes Fibroids?

The exact cause of fibroids is unknown, but several factors can increase a woman’s risk of developing them:

Age: Fibroids are more common in women between 30 and 50.

Family history: If your mother or sister has had fibroids, you are more likely to develop them.

Hormones: Estrogen and progesterone, the female hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle, can stimulate the growth of fibroids.

Race: Fibroids are more common in African-American women.

What Are the Symptoms of Fibroids?

Fibroids can cause various symptoms, depending on their size and location in the uterus. Some women may have no symptoms at all. Common symptoms include:

Heavy menstrual bleeding

Prolonged menstrual periods

Pelvic pain

Pain during sex

Back pain

Bladder problems

Infertility

How Do Fibroids Affect Fertility?

Fibroids can affect fertility in several ways:

Distortion of the uterus: Large fibroids can change the shape of the uterus, making it difficult for a fertilized egg to implant.

Blocked fallopian tubes: Fibroids can block the fallopian tubes, preventing the egg from reaching the uterus.

Impaired blood flow: Fibroids can cause a reduction in blood flow to the uterus, making it difficult for the embryo to implant.

Hormonal imbalances: Fibroids can disrupt the hormonal balance in the body, making it difficult to conceive.

Diagnosing Fibroids:

If you are experiencing symptoms of fibroids or infertility, your doctor may recommend one or more tests to diagnose the condition. These tests may include the following:

Pelvic exam: Your doctor will perform a physical exam to check for the presence of fibroids.

Ultrasound: This imaging test uses sound waves to create images of the uterus and can help identify fibroids’ location and size.

Hysteroscopy: Hysteroscopy involves inserting a thin, lighted tube into the uterus to examine the lining and detect any fibroids.

MRI: Magnetic resonance imaging can provide a more detailed view of the uterus and fibroids.

Treating Fibroids:

The treatment for fibroids depends on the severity of the symptoms and the desire for fertility.

Treatment options include:

Watchful waiting: If fibroids are small and not causing any symptoms, your doctor may recommend monitoring them without treatment.

Medications: Hormonal medications such as birth control pills, GnRH agonists, and progestin-releasing intrauterine devices (IUDs) can help to shrink fibroids and alleviate symptoms.

Surgery: Surgery may be necessary if fibroids are large or cause severe symptoms. Options include myomectomy, which removes the fibroids while leaving the uterus intact, and hysterectomy, which involves removing the entire uterus.

Uterine artery embolization: This minimally invasive procedure involves blocking the blood flow to the fibroids, causing them to shrink and die.

Endometrial ablation: This procedure involves removing the uterus lining, which can reduce heavy bleeding caused by fibroids.

Fertility Treatments for Fibroids:

If you have fibroids and are struggling with infertility, several fertility treatments can help you conceive:

In vitro fertilization (IVF): This procedure involves fertilizing the egg outside the body and transferring the embryo into the uterus. IVF can bypass any obstacles caused by fibroids and increase the chance of pregnancy.

Myomectomy: If fibroids are causing infertility, a myomectomy can be performed to remove the fibroids and restore fertility.

Hysteroscopic myomectomy: This minimally invasive procedure involves removing small submucosal fibroids through the cervix.

Uterine artery embolization: This procedure can help shrink fibroids and improve fertility by increasing uterine blood flow.

Conclusion:

How to Cope With Heavy Menstrual Bleeding?

Between 27% and 54% of people who menstruate experience heavy menstrual bleeding. When bleeding is substantial or lasts longer than seven days, a period is considered heavy. We refer to this as menorrhagia.