Procedures & Gynaecology
Uterine Fibroids
Non-cancerous growths in the uterus that can cause symptoms and potentially affect pregnancy.
What is Uterine Fibroids?
Uterine fibroids (leiomyomas) are benign growths of the uterine muscle. They are extremely common, affecting up to 70% of women by age 50, though many women are unaware they have them. Fibroids vary greatly in size, number, and location — and it's these factors that determine whether they cause symptoms or affect reproductive outcomes.
Why is it a Concern?
Most fibroids do not affect pregnancy. However, depending on their size and location, fibroids can increase the risk of miscarriage, preterm labour, abnormal fetal position, placental abruption, and caesarean delivery. Large fibroids may also cause pain during pregnancy as they grow under hormonal influence.
Signs & Symptoms
- Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
- Pelvic pain or pressure
- Frequent urination
- Constipation
- Abdominal bloating or enlargement
- Difficulty conceiving
- Pain during intercourse
How It is Monitored
Fibroids are diagnosed by pelvic examination and ultrasound. Management depends on symptoms, size, location, and reproductive goals. Options include monitoring (watchful waiting), medication to manage symptoms, and surgical options (myomectomy to remove fibroids or, in severe cases, hysterectomy). In pregnancy, fibroids are monitored for growth and complications.
Why See an MFM Specialist?
When fibroids complicate pregnancy, MFM expertise is valuable for monitoring fibroid-related pain, assessing the impact on fetal growth and position, and planning delivery when large or strategically located fibroids are present.
Dr. Kartik Balaraman Manages This Condition
Dr. Kartik manages fibroids both in the context of gynaecological symptoms and pregnancy planning. If you have fibroids and are planning pregnancy or experiencing symptoms, speak with Dr. Kartik.
Book ConsultationFrequently Asked Questions
Do fibroids need to be removed before pregnancy?
Not always. The decision depends on the size, location, and number of fibroids, as well as your reproductive history. Submucosal fibroids (inside the uterine cavity) are more likely to affect fertility and may benefit from removal.
Will fibroids grow during pregnancy?
Fibroids may grow during pregnancy due to increased hormone levels, particularly in the first trimester. Most stabilise or shrink in the third trimester. Growth is monitored by ultrasound.
Are fibroids cancerous?
Fibroids are almost always benign. Malignant transformation (leiomyosarcoma) is extremely rare, estimated at less than 0.1% of cases.
Do fibroids always need treatment?
No. Small, asymptomatic fibroids often need only periodic monitoring. Treatment is considered when they cause symptoms, affect fertility, or are expected to complicate pregnancy.
Can fibroids return after removal?
Yes. New fibroids can develop after myomectomy. Recurrence rates vary with age, number of fibroids removed, and individual factors. Dr. Kartik will discuss long-term outlook during consultation.
Related Conditions
Endometriosis
A condition where tissue similar to the womb lining grows outside the uterus, causing pain and potentially affecting fertility.
High-Risk Pregnancy
A pregnancy that requires closer monitoring due to factors that increase the chance of complications for the mother or baby.
Recurrent Miscarriage
The loss of two or more consecutive pregnancies, requiring thorough investigation to identify treatable causes.
Reviewed by Dr. Kartik Balaraman, Consultant OBGYN & Maternal Fetal Medicine Sub-Specialist ·
This page is for general education and does not replace personalised medical advice. If you have concerns about your pregnancy or health, consult a qualified specialist directly.