Understanding the Impact of Uterine Fibroids on Reproductive Health

Uterine fibroids are benign tumours that develop in the muscle tissue of the uterus. These noncancerous growths (also known as myomas or leiomyomas) can have a significant impact on reproductive health, particularly in women.

Explore the effects of uterine fibroids on fertility in this article and how seeking treatment at a women’s clinic in Singapore can help manage this condition.

Effects of Fibroids

Fibroids can vary in size, number, and location within the uterus. They can change the shape and size of the uterus and even affect the cervix. Subserosal fibroids are found in the outer wall of the uterus, while intramural fibroids develop within the muscular layers. Submucosal fibroids protrude into the uterine cavity. These fibroids can also be pedunculated, attached to nearby ligaments or organs, but they are rarely found outside the pelvic cavity.

The Exact Cause

Approximately two out of ten women of reproductive age have fibroids, with a higher prevalence among African-American women. The exact cause of uterine fibroids remains unclear, but evidence suggests that genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors may contribute to their development.

Its Impact on Fertility

Fibroids can impact fertility, although not all women with fibroids will experience infertility. Around five to ten percent of infertile women have fibroids. The size and location of fibroids determine their effect on fertility. Submucosal fibroids within the uterine cavity or large fibroids exceeding 6 cm in diameter within the uterine wall can pose challenges to conception.

Uterine fibroids can reduce fertility through various mechanisms:

• Changes in the shape of the cervix can affect the entry of sperm into the uterus.
• Alterations in the shape of the uterus can interfere with sperm or embryo movement.
• Fibroids can also block the fallopian tubes or impact the lining of the uterine cavity, affecting implantation and the development of the embryo.
• Fibroids can disrupt blood flow to the uterine cavity, compromising the embryo’s ability to implant and grow.

Fibroids and Pregnancy

During pregnancy, fibroids can be a cause for concern. While they are present in two to twelve percent of pregnant women, not all fibroids grow or cause problems during pregnancy.

If a fibroid increases in size, it usually occurs within the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. The main concern is the possibility of preterm birth or miscarriage. Fibroids may outgrow their blood supply in some cases, which may lead to severe pain and the need for hospitalisation.

Fibroids can also affect the position of the baby in the uterus. This increases the risk of miscarriage, preterm delivery, and the need for a caesarean section. Surgical interventions for fibroids, however, are rarely performed during pregnancy.

Addressing Uterine Fibroids

Women who suspect they have fibroids or experience symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, or fertility issues should consult a women’s clinic in Singapore for proper evaluation. These clinics offer various treatment options, which include:

• medication to manage symptoms
• surgeries to remove or shrink fibroids

Treatment options should be carefully considered on a case-by-case basis when addressing uterine fibroids and their impact on reproductive health. The symptoms’ severity and the doctor’s recommendations will determine what actions must be made.

Conclusion

Uterine fibroids greatly impact fertility and pregnancy outcomes. It is still crucial to seek proper medical evaluation and guidance, even if not all women with fibroids will experience infertility or complications during pregnancy.

Seeking timely medical attention is the first proactive step towards managing this condition and improving women’s reproductive health.