Can pregnancy be harmed by uterine fibroids? Understand typical symptoms and how to address them

During their reproductive years, many women are affected by non-cancerous growths in the uterus called uterine fibroids, also called leiomyomas. Although fibroids by themselves are usually not harmful or hazardous, they may sometimes present a number of difficulties during pregnancy.

Prerna Sinha, an associate consultant in obstetrics and gynecology at Madhukar Rainbow Children’s Hospital in Delhi, reports that fibroids often go undetected because the growths are too tiny to produce obvious symptoms. Larger fibroids, however, could have an impact on fetal growth, fertilization, or delivery.
The following are the most typical signs of fibroids during pregnancy:
intense cramps that resemble menstruation.
discomfort and pain in the stomach, issues with digestion, such constipation
Urges to pee are frequent because of strain on the bladder.
Obstacles that arise during pregnancy:
During pregnancy, elevated estrogen levels may contribute to the formation of fibroids. Research has also shown that pain is the most prevalent side effect of fibroids during pregnancy, particularly in women who are in their last two trimesters and have fibroids bigger than 5 centimeters. Miscarriage, premature delivery, fetal development restriction, and placental abruption are a few examples of these. It may be difficult to get pregnant if there are fibroids within the uterus or close to the fallopian tubes. These tumors can also interfere with the development of the embryo and prevent a fertilized egg from implanting. The likelihood of these issues might be influenced by the size, quantity, and location of fibroids within the uterus.

Uterine fibroids may increase the risk of difficulties during labor and delivery, including prolonged and obstructed labor, as well as the need for cesarean surgery. Fibroids may impede the birth canal or change the structure of the uterus.

Specialized prenatal care is necessary for expectant mothers with uterine fibroids in order to keep an eye out for any possible issues throughout the pregnancy. Surgical intervention may be required if fibroids substantially affect the course of the pregnancy or represent a danger to the health of the mother or fetus. Certain prescription drugs may be able to lessen the symptoms of fibroids.

Recall that expecting ladies with fibroids have to speak with a physician in order to maximize prenatal care and ensure the best outcomes possible for their unborn children as well as themselves.