Have you ever wondered how common fibroids are?
Fibroids, superficial, non-cancerous growths in the uterus, affect 20% to 50% of women during their reproductive years or before they turn 50.
But what happens if you get pregnant with fibroids?
Fibroids are widespread and usually not harmful. While many women with fibroids experience no symptoms, others may face complications, particularly during pregnancy. One such complication is an increased risk of miscarriage. This risk increases because fibroids can change the shape of the uterus, making it more challenging for a baby to grow as needed. However, some steps can be taken to minimize this risk and support a healthy pregnancy.
If you’re planning a pregnancy, talking to your obstetrician and gynecologist about fibroids is a smart step. Managing them early can help lower the risks during your pregnancy journey.
Read on in our blog to find out more. Stay tuned as we delve deeper into how to manage and treat fibroids to ensure a safe and healthy pregnancy.
Understanding the Impact of Fibroids on Pregnancy
Fibroids can vary greatly in size, number, and location within the uterus, and these factors can influence their impact on pregnancy. They might change the shape of the uterine cavity, leading to difficulties in the implantation or growth of the fetus.
What types of fibroids exist?
Generally, fibroids are classified by where they grow:
- Intramural fibroids are found within the wall of the uterus and are the most common type.
- Subserosal fibroids extend beyond the wall of the uterus into the pelvic cavity.
- Submucosal fibroids protrude into the uterine cavity and can affect pregnancy.
Submucosal fibroids, in particular, can increase the risk of miscarriage and other complications like preterm labor. Larger fibroids may also disrupt blood flow to the developing fetus, which causes pregnancy loss.
Ready to take control? Start these preventive measures today and discuss the best plan for managing fibroids during your pregnancy with your gynecologist.
Preconception Planning and Fibroid Management
For women with known fibroids planning to conceive, it’s crucial to consult an obstetrician and gynaecologist. They can assess the type of fibroid and its potential risks. In some cases, treatment may be recommended before attempting pregnancy.
- Medications to Manage Fibroid Symptoms:
- Doctors often prescribe medications to help reduce symptoms or shrink fibroids. These can include hormone treatments like GnRH agonists, which lower estrogen levels and can reduce fibroid size.
- Surgical Options Before Pregnancy:
- For women planning a pregnancy, removing large fibroids might be recommended. Procedures like myomectomy preserve fertility while leaving the uterus intact. It can improve the chances of a successful pregnancy.
- Non-Invasive Treatments:
- There are also non-invasive options like MRI-guided focused ultrasound surgery (FUS). This treatment uses high-frequency sound waves to heat and destroy fibroid tissue without incisions.
"While not all fibroids pose a significant risk, certain precautions can help minimize the chances of miscarriage. Firstly, women with fibroids must undergo regular prenatal care and ultrasound monitoring to assess the fibroid's location and size. Secondly, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can support overall reproductive health. In some cases, medical intervention may be necessary. Each case is unique, and discussing individualized options with a healthcare provider is foremost."- says Dr Nisarg Patel, one of the top obstetricians, gynecologists and IVF specialists in Ahmedabad
Monitoring During Pregnancy
Once you get pregnant, your obstetrician must monitor you regularly. Most fibroids do not grow during pregnancy, but if they grow, they are usually limited to the first trimester. Close observation can help manage any complications that arise.
Here are some key strategies:
- Regular Monitoring:
- Importance of Ultrasounds and Medical Supervision: Regular check-ups and ultrasounds are crucial. They help track the size and location of fibroids and assess their impact on the pregnancy. This allows for timely interventions if risks increase.
- Managing Symptoms:
- Pain Management and Reducing Complications: If fibroids cause pain or other symptoms, managing these is vital. Options include safe pain relievers and other treatments your doctor can recommend to minimise discomfort and prevent complications.
Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle
General recommendations for preventing fibroids include maintaining a healthy weight and consuming a diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
- Diet, Exercise, and Stress Reduction: Healthy lifestyle choices can influence the outcome of your pregnancy. Focus on:
- A balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, and fibre helps regulate hormones and reduce fibroid symptoms.
- Regular, gentle exercise to improve blood flow and reduce stress.
- Stress reduction techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises can help manage the hormonal fluctuations that impact fibroids.
Hormonal contraceptives can also lower the risk of developing fibroids. That may be beneficial for women with a history of fibroids when planning future pregnancies.
Are you planning a pregnancy or currently pregnant with fibroids? - call us to book your appointment today for an expert opinion and get the best treatment plan to avoid miscarriage
What to Discuss with Your Doctor
Here’s what you should discuss with your doctor:
- Pre-pregnancy Planning:
- Talk about the likelihood of fibroids affecting your pregnancy and discuss the potential need for treatment before conception. This could include medications or even surgery to remove larger fibroids to increase the chances of a healthy pregnancy.
- During Pregnancy Care:
- Set up a schedule for regular check-ups and ultrasounds to monitor the fibroids' impact on your pregnancy. Discuss pain management strategies and any symptoms that might need specific attention.
- When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention:
- Know the signs that require urgent care, such as severe abdominal pain, excessive vaginal bleeding, or signs of preterm labor. Immediate action can prevent serious complications.
Conclusion
Many women with fibroids experience healthy pregnancies and deliver healthy babies, but it requires careful planning and management. By understanding the risks, working closely with healthcare providers, and making informed decisions about treatment and lifestyle, you can increase the chances of a healthy pregnancy. If you have fibroids and are considering pregnancy, start the conversation with your doctor to create a tailored plan that supports both your dream of parenthood and your health. With the right support and information, you can manage fibroids and look forward to a joyful pregnancy and a healthy baby.
Get in touch with us to discuss the best strategies for your health during pregnancy. Stay informed, stay hopeful, and care for yourself and your baby.
FAQs
- Can fibroids affect my ability to conceive?
- Fibroids, especially submucosal types that distort the uterine cavity, can sometimes make it harder to conceive by interfering with the implantation of the embryo.
- Will fibroids increase my risk of complications during pregnancy?
- Yes, fibroids can increase the risk of complications such as miscarriage, preterm labor, and problems with the position of the fetus, which might need a cesarean section.
- Do fibroids always grow larger during pregnancy?
- Not always, but they can grow due to increased estrogen levels during pregnancy. Regular monitoring can help manage any changes.
- Can I still have a natural birth if I have fibroids?
- Many women with fibroids can still have a natural birth. Yet, it depends on the size, number, and location of the fibroids. Your doctor can provide guidance based on your specific situation.
- What happens to fibroids after I give birth?
- Fibroids often shrink after childbirth as hormone levels return to normal. But, they don’t always disappear completely and should be monitored in postpartum check-ups.
References
http://irp.nih.gov/catalyst/25/5/fibroid-link-to-miscarriage-now-in-doubt
