Managing Fibroids During Pregnancy

Are Fibroids Dangerous During Pregnancy?

It depends. Fibroids do not pose risks in every pregnancy, but large or poorly positioned fibroids can lead to complications. For some women, fibroids increase discomfort or risk of certain conditions, such as preterm labor or placental issues.

What Are the Symptoms of Fibroids in Pregnancy?

Fibroid symptoms can vary, but during pregnancy, they may present differently due to hormonal changes and increased blood flow. Recognizing these signs early can help determine appropriate care.

Common symptoms of fibroids in pregnancy include:

• Abdominal or pelvic pain
• Persistent back pain
• Heavy or irregular bleeding
• Increased pressure on the bladder or bowels

If you experience these symptoms, consulting with a fibroid specialist at Houston Fibroids can help clarify whether fibroids are present and decide the best management plan for you.

Fibroids and Pregnancy Pain

Fibroid pain is a common symptom during pregnancy due to the added pressure these often non-cancerous growths place on the uterus. This discomfort can range from mild cramping to more intense pain and may become more pronounced as pregnancy progresses.

Fibroids During Pregnancy and Bleeding

Some women with fibroids experience bleeding, especially in the early stages of pregnancy. Although bleeding can occur for various reasons, fibroids may be a contributing factor if they press against the uterine wall or grow near the placenta.

Understanding Fibroid and Pregnancy Risks

Fibroids can increase certain risks during pregnancy, particularly when they are large or located near sensitive areas of the uterus. These risks may include:

• Preterm labor
• Placental complications
• Delivery challenges

What Happens When You Have Fibroids During Pregnancy?

When fibroids are present during pregnancy, they may influence the growth and position of the uterus. Although many women with fibroids have healthy pregnancies, the growth rate and location of fibroids can impact comfort levels and, in some cases, fetal development.

Early diagnosis and regular monitoring are vital to managing potential issues and ensuring a smooth pregnancy journey.

Effects on Pregnancy and Fetal Development

While fibroids rarely interfere directly with fetal development, their size, type, and location within the uterus can pose notable challenges.

Larger fibroids, especially those positioned within the uterine cavity, may limit the space available for fetal growth, potentially restricting movement and development.

Fibroids near the lower uterine segment can also impact fetal positioning, increasing the likelihood of a breech position as delivery approaches.

Additionally, fibroids may press against surrounding organs, causing discomfort and further impacting the uterine environment.

Labor and Delivery With Fibroids

Fibroids can sometimes affect labor and delivery in significant ways. Depending on their location and size, fibroids can obstruct the birth canal, making natural delivery more difficult and sometimes requiring a Cesarean section.

For some women, fibroids may stimulate early contractions, leading to preterm labor or creating discomfort during delivery. Additionally, large fibroids can impact uterine contractions, affecting labor progression and potentially leading to complications.

Our experienced team collaborates closely with each patient’s medical providers to ensure comprehensive birth planning and monitor any fibroid size and position changes to support a safe delivery. By preparing for potential challenges in advance, we strive to ensure a positive birth experience and optimal outcomes for both mother and baby.

Fibroids and Pregnancy Treatment Options

While most fibroid treatments are not recommended during pregnancy, several options are available to manage symptoms and minimize the impact of fibroids safely.

Treatment options include:

• Medication: Pain relief medications can safely alleviate fibroid-related discomfort. Our team will recommend medications suited to your unique needs and pregnancy stage.
• Lifestyle Adjustments: Simple lifestyle changes, like staying hydrated, practicing light exercise, and avoiding heavy lifting, can ease symptoms and reduce fibroid-related strain.

For long-term fibroid relief after pregnancy, Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) is a highly effective, non-surgical treatment that reduces fibroid size by blocking their blood supply. UFE offers a safe option for women seeking to avoid surgical procedures and can be an ideal choice for managing fibroids and improving fertility outcomes in the long term.

Effective Fibroid Care in Houston, TX

Houston Fibroids is committed to providing expert care for women experiencing fibroids. With a compassionate approach and advanced treatment options, our team offers dedicated support to help you manage symptoms and risks at every stage.

From pain management during pregnancy to long-term solutions like UFE after pregnancy, we are here to guide you. Schedule an appointment today to learn more.