Fibroid Treatment During Pregnancy

How Fibroids Affect Pregnancy

Fibroids can develop at any age, and pregnancy often brings hormonal changes that may cause them to grow. Some women may have fibroids without noticeable symptoms, while others experience discomfort that can impact their quality of life.

Fibroids in pregnancy vary in size and location, influenced by several fibroid causes, including hormonal changes, genetics, and lifestyle. These factors impact how fibroids affect the uterus and surrounding organs, with some remaining small and others growing larger during pregnancy.

Common effects include:

• Increased Pregnancy Pain: Fibroids and pregnancy pain are common due to the fibroids’ pressure on the uterus and nearby structures, which may lead to cramping or discomfort.
• Pregnancy Bleeding: Some women with fibroids experience spotting or heavy bleeding, particularly in the first trimester, which may require medical attention.

Diagnosing fibroids early allows patients to manage symptoms and address potential issues during pregnancy, labor, and delivery.

Signs and Symptoms of Fibroids During Pregnancy

Fibroids can present unique signs during pregnancy, often causing symptoms that may not have been experienced previously. Recognizing these signs early can help guide treatment options to support a safe pregnancy journey.

Signs of fibroids in pregnancy include:

• Abdominal or pelvic pain
• Persistent back pain
• Heavy or irregular bleeding
• Pressure on the bladder or bowel

If you notice these signs and symptoms of fibroids during pregnancy, consulting a fibroid specialist can provide you with clarity and tailored recommendations.

Are Fibroids Dangerous in Pregnancy?

The short answer is not generally.

For many women, fibroids pose minimal risk. However, large or poorly positioned fibroids can increase the risk of complications. Submucosal fibroids, for instance, affect the uterine lining and may lead to pregnancy loss.

A Look at Fibroids and Pregnancy Complications

In some instances, fibroids can lead to complications, particularly if they grow quickly or interfere with the uterine cavity. Common complications associated with fibroids during pregnancy include:

• Preterm Labor: Some fibroids may cause contractions, increasing the likelihood of early labor.
• Cesarean Section: Large fibroids may obstruct the birth canal, making a C-section necessary.
• Placental Issues: Fibroids can affect the placement and attachment of the placenta, which may impact fetal growth.

Diagnosing Fibroids in Pregnant Women

If fibroids are suspected, ultrasound is a safe and effective tool for confirming their presence and assessing size and location. Fibroid specialists may recommend additional imaging to better understand how fibroids could influence your pregnancy and ensure the best course of action for monitoring and management.

Fibroids and Pregnancy Treatment Options

When managing fibroids during pregnancy, safety and symptom relief are top priorities. While some procedures are not recommended during pregnancy, certain options are available to provide relief and reduce the impact of fibroids.

Common fibroids and pregnancy treatment options:

• Medication: Pain relief medications can help manage symptoms like pain and discomfort.
• Rest and Hydration: Staying hydrated and avoiding heavy lifting can reduce symptoms and improve comfort.

Can Fibroids Be Treated While Pregnant?

While specific treatments are generally avoided during pregnancy, minimally invasive options may be considered in severe cases.

Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE), a proven non-surgical method, can be an option for fibroid treatment outside of pregnancy. It helps reduce fibroid size by cutting off the blood supply.

For those who experience fibroids before or after pregnancy, UFE can be a safe and effective solution to improve fertility outcomes and overall health.

Our team assesses each patient’s unique circumstances—including fibroid type, location, and pregnancy stage—to determine the most appropriate and safest treatment plan.

When Is Surgery Considered During Pregnancy?

In rare instances, surgery, specifically myomectomy, may be necessary during pregnancy for fibroids causing severe pain or significant complications.

For some women, planning UFE post-pregnancy can be a highly effective way to address fibroids long-term, supporting reproductive health and reducing the likelihood of fibroid recurrence.

Medical Treatments and Monitoring

Ongoing monitoring is essential to managing fibroids throughout pregnancy. At Dallas Fibroid Center, we provide consistent monitoring to track fibroid growth and adapt care plans as needed, giving you peace of mind and supporting a safe pregnancy experience.

Minimally Invasive Fibroid Treatment in Dallas

Our team at Dallas Fibroid Center specializes in minimally invasive fibroid treatments, including pre-and-post-pregnancy options to support your long-term health.

From non-surgical procedures to advanced fibroid management, we’re here to help you regain control over your reproductive health safely and effectively.

Please schedule an appointment today to learn how Dallas Fibroid Center can help you navigate a fibroid diagnosis.