Know About Uterine Fibroids and How It Affects Fertility

Many factors can contribute to infertility in women. Regularly monitoring one’s reproductive health is highly important. There are many issues related to the menstrual cycle that affect women, from heavy periods to prolonged menstruation to irregular menstrual cycles, intermenstrual bleeding, low back pain, anemia, and pain during sex. Among the reasons for infertility are PCOS, endometriosis, uterine polyps, fibroids, and other factors. It is crucial to consult a specialist immediately, as a proper diagnosis is essential to prevent any serious health problems. Let’s explore uterine fibroids in detail, how they may affect one’s fertility and their various treatment options.

What are Uterine Fibroids?

Fibroids of the uterus are common, they are non-cancerous tumors. 33-77% of women of reproductive age have fibroids, though 50% of these women are asymptomatic. Fibroids can be classified into three types according to their location in the uterus:

1. Subserous (found in the outer wall of the uterus)
2. Submucosal (found within the uterine cavity)
3. Intramural (found in the muscles of the uterus)

What are The Effects of Fibroids on Fertility?

• Fibroids can block the fallopian tube, which can affect fertilization.
• Fibroids can distort the uterine cavity lining
• During fibroids, the uterus can change shape, which affects sperm movement
• Having fibroids can affect the sperm count to travel to the uterus because the shape of the cervix is altered
• There is a possibility that fibroids might result in abnormal uterine contractions, which can interfere with sperm movement

The presence of fibroids may cause infertility, miscarriages, preterm labor, cesarean deliveries, and other complications. Furthermore, it can affect the position of the fetus in the uterus.

Surgical Methods for Removing Fibroids:

The management varies depending on the number, size, and whether those who wish to have children in the future.

Myomectomy:

A woman who wishes to retain her childbearing capabilities usually undergoes this procedure. In this procedure, only fibroids are removed, leaving the uterus intact. There are three ways to perform a myomectomy:

1. Abdominal Myomectomy: An open surgical cut is made in the abdomen to remove fibroids. Usually, this is recommended when fibroids are larger.
2. Laparoscopic Myomectomy: Small incisions are made to remove fibroids. Robotics can also be used to perform this procedure. It is usually performed when fibroids are small and fewer in number.
3. Hysteroscopic Myomectomy: During this procedure, fibroids are removed through the cervix using a hysteroscope. In this procedure, there will be no abdominal cuts, as it is done vaginally.

Fibroids are treatable via these procedures, so there is no need to worry about this condition. Whenever a woman has a problem with her menstrual cycle, she should consult a specialist without any delay because it can affect fertility.

FAQs:

1. Can fibroids cause permanent infertility?

A: There may be a concern that fibroids can lead to permanent infertility. In the vast majority of cases, women with fibroids can conceive and give birth to healthy babies. So, although it doesn’t cause permanent fertility, this is a common issue nowadays.

2. What is the best treatment for fibroids?

A: Myomectomy… Myomectomy is an operation that removes fibroids while keeping the uterus intact. A myomectomy is the best treatment option for women with fibroid symptoms who plan to have children.

3. What are the symptoms of uterine fibroids?

• Heavy menstrual bleeding.
• Menstrual periods are lasting more than a week.
• Pelvic pressure or pain.
• Frequent urination.
• Difficulty emptying the bladder.
• Backache or leg pains.

4. What is the main cause of fibroids?

A: The cause of fibroids is unknown. According to research, each tumor is formed from a malformed muscle cell in the uterus, which multiplies rapidly when estrogen hormones are present, promoting tumor growth.

5. Can fibroids cause sleep problems?

A: In case you suffer from uterine fibroids, you know how difficult it can be to sleep well at night. A woman with fibroids may have difficulty sleeping due to excessive bleeding or abdominal discomfort. The woman may need to get up multiple times during the night to change her tampons or pads.