Fibroids causing Infertility

Fibroids causes Infertility

Fibroids, also known as uterine leiomyomas or myomas, are non-cancerous growths that develop in the uterus. They are made up of smooth muscle and fibrous tissue and can vary in size from a small pea to a large watermelon. Fibroids can cause a variety of symptoms, including heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain and pressure, and difficulty getting pregnant.

Fibroids that are located within the uterus can cause infertility by:

• Interfering with the implantation of a fertilized egg.

• Creating an abnormal shape of the uterus which can make it difficult for an egg to be fertilized or for a fertilized egg to implant.

• blocking the fallopian tubes which can prevent the egg and sperm from meeting.

• The fibroids can also produce hormones that can disrupt the menstrual cycle and ovulation.

The diagnosis of fibroids causing infertility can be made by:

• Ultrasound: A test that uses sound waves to create images of the uterus and fibroids.

• MRI: A test that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the uterus and fibroids.

• Hysterosalpingography (HSG): A test that uses x-ray and a special dye to view the uterus and fallopian tubes.

Treatment options for fibroids causing infertility include:

• Medications: Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists and antagonists can temporarily shrink fibroids and regulate menstrual bleeding.

• Surgery: Fibroids can be removed surgically through a procedure called myomectomy, which preserves the uterus and allows for future pregnancy.

• In vitro fertilization (IVF): If the fibroids are causing infertility and surgery is not an option, IVF can be done to fertilize an egg outside the body and then transfer the fertilized egg to the uterus.

It's important to note that fibroids are benign growths that can be surgically removed and do not develop into cancer. However, the treatment options and the chances of conception depend on the size, location, and number of fibroids.