Fibroids and Pregnancy: What You Need to Know
Fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in the uterus. They are very common and can affect women of all ages, but they are most common in women who are in their 30s and 40s. Fibroids can cause a wide range of symptoms, including heavy periods, pelvic pain, and frequent urination. They can also affect a woman's ability to become pregnant and carry a baby to term.
What are Fibroids?
Fibroids are growths that develop in the uterus. They are made up of muscle and fibrous tissue and can vary in size from tiny seedlings to large masses that can distort the shape of the uterus. Fibroids are also known as uterine leiomyomas or myomas.
There are several different types of fibroids, including:
- Intramural fibroids - these are the most common type of fibroid and develop within the wall of the uterus.
- Subserosal fibroids - these grow on the outside of the uterus and can become very large.
- Submucosal fibroids - these grow just under the inner lining of the uterus and can cause heavy bleeding and other symptoms.
How Common are Fibroids?
Fibroids are very common, affecting up to 80% of women by the age of 50. They are most common in women who are in their 30s and 40s, but they can affect women of any age. Fibroids are more common in African American women than in women of other ethnicities.
How Do Fibroids Affect Pregnancy?
Fibroids can affect a woman's ability to become pregnant and carry a baby to term. Depending on the size, location, and number of fibroids, they can cause problems such as:
- Miscarriage
- Preterm labor
- Breech presentation
- Placental abruption
- Slow fetal growth
However, many women with fibroids are able to have healthy pregnancies and deliver healthy babies.
Can Fibroids Be Treated During Pregnancy?
The treatment for fibroids during pregnancy depends on the size, location, and number of fibroids, as well as the symptoms they are causing. In some cases, no treatment is necessary and the fibroids will shrink or disappear after the pregnancy. In other cases, treatment may be necessary to prevent complications such as preterm labor or heavy bleeding.
Treatment options for fibroids during pregnancy may include:
- Bed rest
- Medications to manage symptoms
- Surgery to remove the fibroids
Can Fibroids Affect Fertility?
Fibroids can affect fertility if they are located in certain areas of the uterus or if they are very large. Fibroids that grow into the uterine cavity can interfere with implantation and prevent a fertilized egg from attaching to the uterine wall. Fibroids that block the fallopian tubes can also prevent fertilization from occurring.
If you are having trouble getting pregnant and you have fibroids, it is important to talk to your doctor. Depending on the size and location of the fibroids, there may be treatments available that can help improve your chances of getting pregnant.
How are Fibroids Diagnosed?
Fibroids are usually diagnosed during a pelvic exam or imaging tests such as an ultrasound, MRI, or CT scan. Your doctor may also perform a hysteroscopy or laparoscopy to get a closer look at the fibroids and determine the best course of treatment.
Conclusion
Fibroids are common non-cancerous growths that develop in the uterus. They can cause a wide range of symptoms and can affect a woman's ability to become pregnant and carry a baby to term. Treatment for fibroids during pregnancy depends on the size, location, and number of fibroids, as well as the symptoms they are causing. If you are having trouble getting pregnant or you have fibroids and are pregnant, it is important to talk to your doctor.
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