Uterine Fibroids (Leiomyoma or Myoma)

What Are Uterine Fibroids?

Uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomas or myomas, are non-cancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus. They can vary in size, number, and location. Some women may have fibroids without experiencing any symptoms, while others may experience heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pressure, pain, or fertility concerns.

At Lush Fertility, we provide personalized evaluation and management of uterine fibroids based on your symptoms, fibroid size and location, overall health, and reproductive goals.

Uterine Fibroids Symptoms

The symptoms of uterine fibroids can vary from woman to woman. Some fibroids may not cause any noticeable symptoms, while larger or strategically located fibroids may cause discomfort or menstrual and fertility-related concerns.

Common uterine fibroids symptoms include:

Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
Painful periods or severe menstrual cramps
Pelvic pain or pressure
Lower abdominal discomfort
Feeling of fullness or heaviness in the abdomen
Frequent urination
Difficulty emptying the bladder
Constipation or pressure in the rectal area
Lower back pain
Pain during sexual intercourse
Abdominal enlargement
Difficulty conceiving in some cases

If you experience persistent or heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, or other symptoms, a medical evaluation can help determine whether fibroids may be contributing to your symptoms.

Types of Uterine Fibroids

Fibroids are commonly classified according to their location within or around the uterus.

Submucosal Fibroids

Submucosal fibroids develop beneath the inner lining of the uterus. They may cause heavy menstrual bleeding and can sometimes be associated with fertility problems.

Intramural Fibroids

Intramural fibroids develop within the muscular wall of the uterus. They are one of the most common types of uterine fibroid and may cause heavy periods, pelvic pressure, or abdominal discomfort.

Subserosal Fibroids

Subserosal fibroids grow toward the outer surface of the uterus. Larger fibroids may create pressure on nearby organs and cause symptoms such as frequent urination or constipation.

Pedunculated Fibroids

Pedunculated fibroids develop on a stalk attached to the uterus. They may grow on either the inner or outer surface of the uterus.

What Causes Uterine Fibroids?

The exact cause of uterine fibroids is not completely understood. Hormonal, genetic, and other biological factors may influence their development and growth.

Fibroids can change in size over time, particularly during periods of hormonal changes. Your doctor can assess your individual risk factors and determine the appropriate approach to monitoring or treatment.

How Are Uterine Fibroids Diagnosed?

A diagnosis usually begins with a discussion about your symptoms, menstrual history, medical history, and reproductive goals.

Your doctor may recommend:

The number, size, and location of fibroids are important factors when planning fibroid treatment.

Fibroids and Fertility

Fibroids and fertility can be related in some women. The effect of a fibroid on fertility may depend on its size and location, particularly whether it affects the inner cavity of the uterus.

If you are trying to conceive and have been diagnosed with uterine fibroids, a fertility specialist can evaluate your condition and determine whether the fibroids may be affecting conception or pregnancy.

Treatment may not always be necessary. Your fertility specialist will consider your reproductive plans and overall health before recommending any intervention.

Uterine Fibroids and Pregnancy

Many women with fibroids can become pregnant. However, certain fibroids may affect conception or pregnancy depending on their size and location.

If you have uterine fibroids and pregnancy is part of your future plans, it is important to discuss your condition with a fertility specialist. An appropriate evaluation can help determine whether monitoring or treatment may be recommended before pregnancy.

Uterine Fibroid Treatment

Not every woman with fibroids requires treatment. The appropriate uterine fibroid treatment depends on factors such as:

Depending on your individual needs, management may include:

Monitoring

Small or symptom-free fibroids may sometimes be monitored through regular medical check-ups and imaging.

Medication

Certain medications may be recommended to help manage symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding or pelvic discomfort.

Minimally Invasive Procedures

Depending on the type and location of the fibroid, minimally invasive procedures may be considered.

Surgical Treatment

Surgical options may be considered when fibroids cause significant symptoms, affect fertility, or require removal based on the individual’s medical needs.

Fertility-Preserving Options

For women who wish to become pregnant, treatment planning may focus on preserving reproductive potential whenever medically appropriate.

Your doctor will explain the available fibroid treatment options and recommend an approach based on your individual condition.

When Should You See a Fertility Specialist?

Consider consulting a fertility specialist if you have:

Heavy or prolonged menstrual periods
Persistent pelvic pain or pressure
A known diagnosis of uterine fibroids
Difficulty getting pregnant
Recurrent pregnancy loss
Fibroids identified during a fertility evaluation
Concerns about fibroids and a future pregnancy

Early evaluation can help you understand how fibroids may affect your reproductive health and what management options may be appropriate.

Why Choose Lush Fertility for Fibroid Care?

At Lush Fertility, we understand that every woman’s experience with fibroids is different. Our approach focuses on evaluating your symptoms, understanding the characteristics of your fibroids, and considering your fertility and pregnancy goals.

Whether you need monitoring, symptom management, fertility evaluation, or uterine fibroid treatment, our team can help you understand your condition and available options.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are uterine fibroids?

Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus. They can vary in size, number, and location.

2. What are the common symptoms of uterine fibroids?

Common symptoms include heavy or prolonged periods, painful periods, pelvic pressure, abdominal discomfort, frequent urination, constipation, and lower back pain.

3. Can uterine fibroids affect fertility?

Yes, some fibroids may affect fertility depending on their size and location. A fertility specialist can evaluate whether fibroids may be affecting conception.

4. Do all uterine fibroids require treatment?

No. Some fibroids do not cause symptoms and may only require regular monitoring. Treatment depends on symptoms, fibroid characteristics, and pregnancy plans.

5. Can I get pregnant with uterine fibroids?

Many women with uterine fibroids can become pregnant. However, certain fibroids may affect conception or pregnancy, so an individual evaluation is recommended.

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