Subserosal Fibroids
According to the National Institute of Health, 35% to 77% of women will experience at least one fibroid in their lifetime. Ranging in size from as small as a pea to as large as a cantaloupe or more, they can greatly affect a woman’s quality of life and fertility if left untreated.
While “fibroid” is the umbrella term to describe these noncancerous uterine tumors, they are more intricately grouped into four categories based on their location in the uterus.
Of the four, subserosal fibroids are the most common fibroid found outside the uterus and often the largest in size.
Because of their position, they can affect the uterus and its essential functions and other surrounding organs.
If you or a loved one has recently been diagnosed with subserosal uterine fibroids or is experiencing symptoms consistent with these tumors, we are here to help with a comprehensive diagnosis and effective subserosal fibroid treatment.
Continue reading to learn more about subserosal fibroids, including their symptoms, treatment options, and the tie between subserosal fibroids and pregnancy.
What Is a Subserosal Fibroid?
A subserosal fibroid is a type of uterine fibroid that grows outside the uterus and extends into the pelvic cavity.
Subserosal uterine fibroids are located beneath the outermost layer of the uterus, known as the serosa. They can vary in size and shape and may grow on a stalk or be attached directly to the uterus.
Subserosal fibroids are generally benign and can develop on their own or in clusters. Like other fibroid types, they can cause symptoms that impact your everyday life.
Subserosal Fibroid Symptoms
Subserosal fibroids can cause various symptoms ranging from mild to severe. The most common include
- Pelvic pain or discomfort
- Heavy menstrual bleeding
- Irregular or prolonged periods
- Pain during sex
- Pressure or fullness in the lower abdomen or pelvis
- Frequent urination or difficulty emptying your bladder
- Constipation
- Back pain
- Difficulty getting pregnant
It’s important to note that not all women with subserosal fibroids experience symptoms. Some fibroids may be discovered incidentally during a routine pelvic exam or imaging test.
Understanding the Tie Between Subserosal Fibroids and Pregnancy
Women with fibroids may experience infertility troubles.
Small subserosal fibroids that do not distort the uterine cavity are unlikely to impact pregnancy significantly. However, larger fibroids or those that grow in specific locations may interfere with conception, implantation, or fetal growth.
Along with size, the positioning of a subserosal fibroid plays a significant role in your ability to get pregnant or maintain a healthy pregnancy.
Fibroids on the outside of the uterus that grows near the fallopian tubes can interfere with the movement of the egg or sperm, making it more difficult to conceive.
Fibroids that grow on the front of the uterus can create a physical barrier, preventing implantation or causing miscarriage.
Subserosal fibroids that grow on the back or sides of the uterus are the least likely to affect conception or pregnancy.
In some cases, subserosal fibroids may also cause complications during pregnancy, such as
- Preterm labor
- Preterm birth
- Abnormal fetal position
In extremely rare instances, a large subserosal fibroid may require surgical removal during pregnancy if it causes significant symptoms or blocks the birth canal completely.
Subserosal Fibroid Treatment
The treatment for subserosal fibroids is in line with other fibroid types and greatly depends on the size, location, and symptoms of the fibroids and the overall health of the patient.
The most common subserosal fibroid treatment includes
- Observation
- Medications
- Uterine fibroid embolization
In rare cases, subserosal fibroids may require surgical removal through a myomectomy or hysterectomy, but most women do not need extensive surgery to heal from fibroids.
It is essential to discuss the risks and benefits of each treatment option with one of our fibroid specialists to determine the best route for your fibroid care.
Minimally Invasive Subserosal Uterine Fibroid Treatment in Houston
If you have been diagnosed with subserosal fibroids or are experiencing unrelenting symptoms, you should visit our Houston-based fibroid specialists for further evaluation and a personalized treatment plan.
Many minimally invasive options are available to help you eliminate symptoms and remove your fibroids for good.
Contact us today to learn more and schedule your consultation. We look forward to helping you reach a fibroid-free future.
