How to deal with fibroids during pregnancy?

How to deal with fibroids during pregnancy?

Navigating pregnancy while having fibroids may be an overwhelming journey. For women with fibroids, these noncancerous growths in the uterus may cause pregnancy issues.

 

In this blog, we’ll explore how to deal with fibroids during pregnancy, offering insights and guidance for a safe and healthy journey for both mom and baby.

 

What are uterine fibroids?

 

Fibroids, uterine fibroids, or leiomyomas, are noncancerous tumors that grow in the womb. These fibroids consist of cells, tissue, and muscle that remain attached to the uterine wall.

 

Fibroids can vary in size and can be as small as a raisin or as large as a grapefruit. Many women with fibroids may not even know their presence, especially when the growths are too small to cause noticeable complications. 

 

However, larger fibroids can impact fertility, fetal development, and the process of childbirth.

 

Also read: What size of Uterus Fibroids is dangerous?

 

What are the signs and symptoms of fibroids?

 

The signs and symptoms associated with fibroids can vary widely among women. Some women with fibroids may experience no symptoms, while others may have significant discomfort and complications. 

 

Common signs and symptoms of fibroids include:

  • Severe cramps, similar to period cramps
  • Pain and tension in the stomach
  • Digestion problems, such as constipation
  • Heavy or extended menstrual bleeding
  • More frequent or uncomfortable urination
  • Backache
  • Pain during sex

 

If you suspect you have fibroids or are experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek consultation with a gynecologist for an accurate diagnosis and treatment options.

 

How do fibroids affect pregnancy?

 

While fibroids don’t usually significantly affect pregnancy, they can sometimes cause:

 

  • Miscarriage
  • Bleeding and pain in the first trimester
  • Low blood supply that can result in cell death
  • Preterm or obstructed labor
  • Hemorrhage soon before or following delivery
  • Can make natural delivery impossible, necessitating a C-section

 

Fibroids can sometimes prevent pregnancy, causing infertility. Fibroids may affect the process of conception by blocking the fallopian tubes — the channels through which an egg travels before a sperm fertilizes it.

 

Additionally, fibroids may interfere with the fertilized eggs’ attachment to the uterine wall.

 

How are uterine fibroids diagnosed?

 

Uterine fibroids are typically diagnosed accidentally, often during a routine pelvic examination.

 

During the pelvic examination, the irregular size or shape of the uterus may suggest the presence of fibroids. To further confirm, imaging tests, ultrasound, X-ray, or MRI to visualize the fibroids. 

 

How to manage uterine fibroids in pregnancy?

 

Managing fibroid in pregnancy requires special attention and monitoring to ensure and safeguard the health and well-being of both the expectant mother and the developing baby.

 

While most fibroids don’t need to be managed if they aren’t causing complications, a doctor may recommend treatment based on your discomfort, pain, or bleeding during pregnancy, your age, and how quickly the fibroids grow or change.

 

Medications can be a part of fibroid in pregnancy management but do not eliminate the fibroids themselves. Common medications include pain medications that are safe during pregnancy to manage estrogen levels or inhibit pain receptors.

 

In some cases, resting and reducing physical activity may help.

 

Also Read: Fibroids vs cysts – How are they detected?

 

How to treat uterine fibroids?

 

The treatment of fibroids depends on various factors, including the size, number, and position of the fibroids, as well as the severity of symptoms and a woman’s individual circumstances and preferences. 

Here are some common treatment options:

 

  • Watchful Waiting: If fibroids are small and cause no issues, a gynecologist may recommend simply monitoring them regularly without any active treatment. 

 

  • Hormone therapy: Hormone treatments include forms of hormonal birth control, such as pills, hormonal IUDs, or contraceptive injections, and taking gonadotropin-releasing hormones (GnRH), usually as a shot.

 

  • Myomectomy: Myomectomy is a surgical procedure involving removing fibroids while leaving the uterus intact. This option is suitable for women who wish to preserve fertility. 

 

  • Hysterectomy: Hysterectomy, a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the uterus, is considered a definitive treatment for fibroids. It is typically advised for women experiencing severe symptoms, but it’s important to note that pregnancy is no longer possible after a hysterectomy.

 

  • Cryosurgery: It is MR-guided transvaginal cryotherapy. In this procedure, a lighted probe or endoscope is inserted through the vaginal canal. Subsequently, cryotherapy, which involves laser or freezing probes, is used to shrink and deactivate fibroids.

 

  • Uterine Artery Embolisation (UAE): This minimally invasive procedure involves injecting small particles into the blood-supplying arteries of the fibroids, blocking their blood supply and causing them to shrink.

 

  • Lifestyle Modifications: Although not a direct treatment for fibroids, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing stress, and moderating alcohol consumption may help reduce the risk or severity of fibroids.

 

The treatment choice should be made in consultation with a gynecologist in Dubai, considering the specific circumstances, the patient’s preferences, and potential risks and benefits associated with each option. Some women may require a combination of treatments or repeat procedures if fibroids continue to grow or symptoms persist.

 

Consult Dr. Mustafa Aldam for uterine fibroid treatment in Dubai

 

Navigating fibroids in pregnancy requires careful monitoring and personalized care. 

 

If you have any concerns or need expert guidance, contact Dr. Mustafa Aldam, a highly experienced obstetrician and gynecologist. With his diverse expertise, he assists in the apt diagnosis and treatment of fibroids and helps enable a smooth pregnancy. 

 

Schedule an appointment today.