Uterine Fibroid Size: How Big Is Too Big?
UPDATED ON 8 JUN. 2022
If you’re like most people, you probably don’t know much about uterine fibroids. You may have heard the term before, but you’re not exactly sure what they are or what they do. This is completely understandable – after all, uterine fibroids are a fairly uncommon condition.
Even so, it’s important to be aware of them, especially if you’re hoping to conceive. Fibroids can sometimes lead to infertility, which is why it’s crucial to understand their size and potential effects on your fertility.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the relationship between uterine fibroid size and fertility and provide some tips for dealing with large fibroids. So read on!
AUTHOR
Dr Jay Mehta
Scientific Director & IVF Specialist with 10+ years of experience
TREATMENT
CONDITION
GET IN TOUCH ON
What is a uterine fibroid?
Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that occur in the uterus. They’re made up of smooth muscle cells and connective tissue, and they can vary greatly in size.
Some fibroids are so small that they can’t be seen with the naked eye, while others can grow to be very large – some have even been known to weigh as much as 20 pounds!
Fibroids are relatively common, and it’s estimated that between 20-40% of women will develop them at some point in their lives. However, not all women who have fibroids will experience symptoms.
For those who do, the most common symptom is heavy bleeding during menstruation. Other symptoms can include pain in the pelvis, lower back, or legs; pain during sex; and frequent urination.
What causes uterine fibroids to grow?
The exact cause of uterine fibroids is unknown, but there are several factors that seem to play a role in their development. These include:
Hormonal imbalances:
Fibroids tend to grow in response to high levels of estrogen, which is why they’re more common during childbearing years.
Family history:
If your mother or sisters have had fibroids, you’re more likely to develop them as well.
Weight:
Women who are overweight or obese are at a higher risk for developing fibroids.
African-American descent:
African-American women are more likely to develop fibroids than women of other racial backgrounds.
Read Also – How Is Endometriosis Different From Fibroids?
What effect does fibroid size have on fertility?
Fibroids can have a number of different effects on fertility, depending on their size and location. In general, the larger the fibroid, the more likely it is to cause problems. Large fibroids can block the fallopian tubes or distort the shape of the uterus, making it difficult for a fertilized egg to implant properly.
Fibroids can also interfere with blood flow to the uterine lining, making it thinner and less hospitable to a developing embryo.
In some cases, fibroids can make it impossible for a woman to become pregnant at all.However, this is relatively rare. Most women with fibroids are able to conceive and carry a pregnancy to term without any issues.
What can be done about large fibroids?
If you have large fibroids and you’re hoping to become pregnant, there are a few different treatment options available. One option is uterine artery embolization, which involves blocking the blood flow to the fibroid in order to shrink it.
This procedure is usually only recommended for small or medium-sized fibroids, however, as it carries a risk of causing damage to the uterus.
Another option is myomectomy, which is surgery to remove the fibroid itself. This is generally considered to be the best option forlarge fibroids, as it doesn’t carry the same risks as uterine artery embolization.
However, myomectomy is a major surgery, so it’s not right for everyone. You should talk to your doctor about the pros and cons of each treatment option to see what’s best for you.
5,200+
Google Reviews
401K+
subscribers
” Every individual and couple’s journey is unique, and
finding the right solutions tailored to their specific
circumstances can make all the difference “
Do All Fibroids Need Treatment Irrespective of Fibroid Size?
No, not all fibroids need treatment. If you’re not experiencing any symptoms, there’s no need to do anything about them. However, if you’re having symptoms like heavy bleeding or pain, you may want to consider treatment. In some cases, large fibroids can be treated with medication.
For example, the drugs GnRH agonists can shrink fibroids by causing a temporary menopause-like state. However, these drugs are generally only recommended for short-term use, as they can have some serious side effects.
If you’re hoping to become pregnant, you may want to consider treatment even if you’re not currently experiencing any symptoms. As mentioned above, large fibroids can cause fertility problems. If you’re trying to conceive and you have fibroids, talk to your doctor about your treatment options.
In conclusion, the size of a fibroid does matter when it comes to fertility and symptom management. However, not all women with large fibroids will need treatment. If you’re not experiencing any symptoms, there’s no need to do anything about your fibroids. However, if you’re having symptoms or you’re trying to become pregnant, talk to your doctor about your treatment options.
Read Also – How to Get Pregnant With Blocked Fallopian Tubes?
Conclusion
Uterine fibroids are common growths that can occur in the uterus. They’re usually benign (non-cancerous), but in some cases, they can cause infertility. The larger the fibroid, the more likely it is to cause problems with fertility.
If you have large fibroids and you’re hoping to become pregnant, there are a few different treatment options available.
AUTHOR
Dr Jay Mehta
Scientific Director & IVF Specialist with 10+ years of experience
CONDITION
CALL US 24/7 FOR ANY HELP
GET IN TOUCH ON
Share Article on
Recommended Reading
Bulky Uterus & Uterine Fibroids : Understanding Diagnosis, Treatments, Risks & more
In this blog, we’ll detail some of the typical signs and causes associated with both types of fertility issues.
Can Fibroids Cause Urine Leakage?
Urinary incontinence is more prevalent in women than men and can be caused by numerous health conditions such as childbirth or pelvic surgery
Fibroids Diet : Best Foods For Uterine Fibroids
It is important to note that food choices can play a role in managing fibroid symptoms. Eating an anti-inflammatory diet full of nutrient