Understanding Submucosal Fibroids With Dallas Fibroid Center
One of the most common types of fibroids is the submucosal fibroid. This type poses unique challenges as it develops underneath the lining of the uterine cavity. Due to the location, submucosal fibroids can cause heavy bleeding and significantly impact a woman’s fertility.
Let’s explore this type of fibroid in more detail, including causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
What Is a Submucosal Fibroid?
Submucosal fibroids are a specific type of uterine fibroids that develop underneath the lining of the uterine cavity. As they grow, they can block fallopian tubes and stop sperm from reaching the uterus. This blockage often leads to fertility issues.
Submucosal Fibroid Causes
The exact cause still needs to be fully understood. However, certain factors may increase your chances of developing them:
- Hormonal imbalances
- Genetic factors, especially if other women in your family have had uterine fibroids
- A family history of fibroids
- Your age, especially for women between 30 and 40.
- Your race, especially if you are African American or Hispanic
- Obesity
- The age you started your period
- Vitamin D deficiency
- A diet high in red meat
- Regular alcohol consumption
- Estrogen exposure
- Soy products
- A diet high in processed foods
- Certain beauty products
Submucosal Fibroid Symptoms
As with other fibroid types, submucosal uterine fibroid symptoms can range from mild to severe and often include:
- Heavy and prolonged menstrual bleeding
- Pelvic pain and cramping
- Irregular menstrual cycles
- Pressure or fullness in the lower abdomen
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Fertility issues and recurrent miscarriages
- Frequent urination
- Back pain
- Difficulty with bowel or bladder function
The Tie Between Submucosal Fibroids and Pregnancy
If you are pregnant or hoping to grow your family, it is essential to understand the impact that submucosal uterine fibroids can have on fertility and the health of a pregnancy.
In certain instances, they may interfere with pregnancy and increase the risk of infertility, recurrent miscarriages, preterm labor, and abnormal fetal position.
However, not all affect pregnancy, and their impact can vary based on size, location, and number of fibroid tumors present within the uterus.
The best way to assess your risk of submucosal fibroids impacting fertility and pregnancy is to have them evaluated by a fibroid specialist before conception. Regular monitoring may be necessary during pregnancy to ensure the fibroids do not affect your growing baby.
Treatment for Submucosal Fibroids
Treatment depends on various factors, including the severity of symptoms, desire for fertility, and overall health.
For most women, the best way to treat submucosal fibroids is through uterine fibroid embolization (UFE). This non-surgical procedure blocks the blood supply to the fibroids, causing them to shrink and alleviate symptoms. This option requires little to no downtime and is the best way to ensure your reproductive organs are not impacted for future fertility goals.
Other available treatment options include:
- Medications– Hormonal medications may help manage symptoms temporarily but do not eliminate the fibroids.
- Hysteroscopic Resection– A minimally invasive procedure where a thin instrument called a hysteroscope removes fibroids from the uterine cavity.
- Myomectomy– A surgical procedure to remove the fibroids while preserving the uterus, which benefits women desiring future fertility.
- Hysterectomy– A surgical option that involves the removal of the uterus, providing a definitive solution. It is crucial to understand that this procedure is only recommended in rare and severe cases and directly impacts your ability to conceive.
If you are experiencing symptoms or have concerns, it is crucial to consult with a fibroid specialist. Our team will thoroughly evaluate and recommend a personalized treatment plan based on your needs and goals.
Personalized Care for Submucosal Fibroids in Dallas
The reality of submucosal uterine fibroids is that they can cause distressing symptoms and impact a woman’s reproductive health.
However, relief and fertility goals are possible with the proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
At Dallas Fibroid Center, our compassionate team specializes in diagnosing and treating submucosal fibroids. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward improving your reproductive health.
