Fibroids and Fertility: Can You Still Get Pregnant?

For some women, conceiving can be a complex journey, particularly when health conditions such as uterine fibroids are involved.

Uterine fibroids, noncancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus, are one of the most common reproductive health concerns. While not all fibroids interfere with fertility, some can affect conception or pregnancy outcomes depending on their size and location. Read on to learn more about how fibroids might affect fertility and pregnancy, and what you can do about them.

How Do Uterine Fibroids Affect Female Fertility?

Uterine fibroids can affect fertility in different ways, depending on their size and location within the uterus. These growths can cause:

• Uterine Distortion: Fibroids that grow into the uterine cavity can alter its shape or size, or affect the cervix, making it harder for sperm to enter and reach the egg.
• Fallopian Tube Blockage: Large or strategically placed fibroids may block the fallopian tubes, preventing fertilisation and implantation.
• Disrupted Blood Supply: Fibroids can interfere with blood flow to the uterine lining, reducing its ability to support the growth of a fertilised egg.

As fibroids are influenced by oestrogen and progesterone, hormonal changes can also encourage their growth and interfere with normal reproductive functions such as ovulation.

However, infertility caused by fibroids affects only a small percentage of women. When fibroids do interfere with conception, various treatment options are available to improve fertility and increase the chances of a successful pregnancy.

How Are Fibroids Treated to Improve Fertility?

Treating fibroids before pregnancy can improve fertility and increase the chances of successful conception or implantation. Common treatment options in Singapore include:

• GnRH Agonists: These medications shrink fibroids by suppressing oestrogen and progesterone. As hormone levels drop, fibroids reduce in size and symptoms such as heavy bleeding often improve.
• Other Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs or hormonal therapies, including birth control, may be prescribed to manage symptoms or temporarily shrink fibroids before planning a pregnancy.
• Myomectomy: This is a surgical procedure that removes fibroids while preserving the uterus. It is often recommended for women with large or submucosal fibroids who wish to conceive in the future. Recovery typically requires about three months before trying to conceive, and it may increase the likelihood of needing a caesarean delivery.

If you have fibroids and are planning a pregnancy, consult your doctor about the most suitable treatment to improve your chances of conceiving and having a healthy delivery.

What Are the Effects of Fibroids on Pregnancy?

Women with fibroids can have normal pregnancies, though in some cases, fibroids can increase the risk of certain complications, such as:

• Pain and Uterine Pressure: As the uterus stretches, fibroids may cause abdominal pain, cramping, or pressure.
• Abnormal Placenta: The risk of placental abruption, where the placenta detaches from the uterine wall before delivery, may be higher.
• Foetal Growth Restriction: Large fibroids can reduce space in the uterus, limiting the baby’s growth.
• Preterm Labour: Pain or pressure from fibroids may trigger contractions and early delivery.
• Caesarean Delivery: Fibroids near the cervix or blocking the birth canal may require a C-section. They can also increase the risk of breech birth, making caesarean delivery the safer option.
• Miscarriage Risk: Large or submucosal fibroids may affect implantation or early pregnancy development.

Generally, fibroids do not require surgery during pregnancy. If symptoms occur, your doctor may suggest rest, pain relief medication, or, in rare cases, a short hospital stay.

If you have concerns about fibroids or fertility, we are here to help. At our clinic, we understand how uterine fibroids can affect reproductive health and provide expert care with personalised solutions to support your journey toward a healthy and successful pregnancy. Contact us today to book a consultation.