Uterine Fibroids During Pregnancy

Uterine fibroids, which are benign muscular tumors that grow in the uterus, are extremely common in women of reproductive age. Hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy can cause fibroids to grow. There can be a single fibroid or multiple fibroids. Even though most fibroids are nothing to be concerned about, some uterine fibroids during pregnancy can cause complications, depending on their size and location:

1. Need for a Cesarean Section – Uterine fibroids won’t affect the health of your baby in most cases. However, the chance of having a c-section is six times greater when the woman has fibroids.
2. Baby is Breech – This means that the baby is not in the position for a vaginal delivery. The baby can either be flipped or a c-section will be performed.
3. Preterm Labor
4. Labor fails to progress
5. Placenta Abruption – Placenta abruption is when the placenta breaks away from the uterine wall before delivery. This can cause the fetus to get less oxygen than necessary.

Questions to ask Your Doctor if You Have Fibroids During Pregnancy

Any abnormal growth can be concerning, especially during pregnancy. Here are just a few questions to ask your doctor if you’re concerned about your uterine fibroids:

1. How many fibroids do I have?
2. Will the fibroid(s) grow larger?
3. Can the fibroid(s) affect the baby’s development?
4. Are there any treatment options for fibroids during pregnancy?
5. Do I need to get more frequent checkups during my pregnancy because of fibroids?
6. Do I need to see a physician who specializes in high-risk pregnancies because of uterine fibroids?