Are you thinking of getting pregnant but worried about the effects of fibroids during pregnancy? The safest option is to make a time to discuss your concerns with Doctor Tamara before you begin your conception journey.
What exactly are fibroids?
Fibroids are tumours that grow from muscle tissue in your uterus. They are not cancerous. Fibroids can be as small as a pea or larger than a grapefruit. They can grow outside the uterine wall, inside the uterine cavity, or within the uterine wall. Many women have fibroids of different sizes.
What to expect if you have fibroids during pregnancy
Most women who have been diagnosed with fibroids go on to have normal pregnancies, but sometimes fibroids can cause challenges. Depending on the size of the fibroid and where it is within your uterus, you may run into complications.
Early pregnancy
The location of the fibroid may or may not impact on fertility and miscarriage. Fibroids on the outer aspect of the uterus generally don’t impact early pregnancy. Fibroids that impact on the cavity of the uterus do impact on fertility and miscarriage. The impact of fibroids within the wall of the uterus In early pregnancy is not clear and this should be discussed with your doctor.
Late pregnancy
In late pregnancy, there are three main concerns:
- Preterm labour, which is more likely if the fibroid is large or if there are lots of fibroids.
- Placental abruption (the abnormal separation of the placenta) can occur if the fibroid grows into the place where the placenta is attached.
- Foetus growth restrictions are possible. Yet studies have not shown that it is any more likely with fibroids than without.
Don’t worry. Fibroids don’t usually interfere with conception. If you’re considering getting pregnant and have fibroids, ask your GP for a referral to Dr Tamara Hunter to discuss your treatment options today.
Useful links
Do you have Fibroids? Read about possible treatment options.