Managing Uterine Fibroids for a Healthy Pregnancy

Managing Uterine Fibroids for a Healthy Pregnancy

Are you a woman planning to start a family? If so, you may have heard about uterine fibroids and wondered how they can affect your pregnancy.

Delve into the crucial aspects of uterine fibroids during pregnancy, including symptoms, risks, and treatment options, with expert insights from Dr. Kaurabhi Zade is a trusted Uterine Fibroid Specialist in Pune. Equip yourself with the knowledge needed to make informed choices for a smoother path to motherhood. Your reproductive health is our priority.

Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in the uterus. They are pretty standard, affecting up to 70% of women by age 50. While many women with fibroids experience no symptoms, some may encounter heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and frequent urination.

These symptoms can become more pronounced during pregnancy due to hormonal changes and increased uterine blood flow. This can cause concern for expectant mothers, but most women with fibroids have uneventful pregnancies.

To manage fibroid-related symptoms during pregnancy, discuss your concerns with your obstetrician. Together, you can explore strategies such as pain management techniques, proper hydration, and adjustments to your daily routine.

Understanding the Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids during pregnancy is crucial for early detection and proper management. Some common symptoms include:

• Increased Pelvic pressure: As the fibroids grow, they can cause a feeling of heaviness or pressure in the pelvic area. This sensation can be more pronounced during pregnancy due to the expanding uterus.
• Abdominal swelling: Larger fibroids may cause noticeable abdominal swelling during pregnancy. This can sometimes be mistaken for average pregnancy weight gain.
• Frequent urination: Fibroids near the bladder can pressure it, increasing urinary frequency.
• Backaches: Fibroids can cause discomfort in the lower back, especially as the pregnancy progresses.

If you experience any of these symptoms, discussing them with a surgeon is essential. They can evaluate your condition and provide appropriate guidance.

Having uterine fibroids during pregnancy can pose certain risks and complications. One concern is the increased chance of miscarriage. Research suggests that fibroids near the uterine cavity or within the muscle wall can reduce blood flow to the growing fetus, leading to adverse outcomes. However, it’s important to note that most women with fibroids have successful pregnancies and healthy babies.

Additionally, fibroids can increase the risk of preterm birth, which may require specialised medical interventions. The presence of fibroids can also increase the likelihood of the need for a cesarean delivery. However, it’s important to remember that not all women with fibroids encounter these complications. Your doctor will closely monitor your pregnancy and take necessary precautions to ensure the best possible outcome.

Pregnancy Complications with Uterine Fibroids

While the presence of uterine fibroids during pregnancy does not guarantee complications, it is essential to be aware of potential issues. Some studies have shown an association between fibroids and placental problems, such as placental abruption or placenta previa.

Placental abruption occurs when the placenta detaches from the uterine wall prematurely, leading to bleeding and potentially compromising the baby’s oxygen supply. Placenta previa occurs when the placenta partially or fully covers the cervix, increasing the risk of bleeding.

Fibroids can also restrict fetal growth, leading to a condition known as fetal growth restriction. This occurs when the fibroids compete with the fetus for space and nutrients, potentially affecting the baby’s growth.

Regular prenatal check-ups and ultrasound examinations are crucial for monitoring your and your baby’s well-being. A surgeon will closely monitor the position and size of the fibroids to ensure they do not impact the placenta or baby’s development.

Treatment for Uterine Fibroids During Pregnancy

The treatment options for uterine fibroids during pregnancy depend on various factors, including the size, number, and location of the fibroids and the severity of symptoms. In most cases, conservative management is recommended, which entails regular monitoring without active intervention.

However, if your symptoms are severe or complications arise, your doctor may suggest medication to alleviate pain or surgical options such as myomectomy or uterine artery embolisation.

Myomectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the fibroids while preserving the uterus, and it is typically performed during the second trimester or after delivery. Uterine artery embolisation blocks the blood supply to the fibroids, causing them to shrink.

It is generally not performed during pregnancy due to potential risks to the developing baby.While surgical interventions are generally avoided during pregnancy, discussing your options with a surgeon if your symptoms are severe or complications arise is essential.

They will be able to assess your specific situation and recommend the most appropriate course of action.

Conclusion

 Navigating uterine fibroids during pregnancy can be challenging, but with proper medical guidance and support, most women can have successful pregnancies and healthy babies. Communicating openly with a surgeon about your symptoms, concerns, and any changes you experience throughout your pregnancy is crucial.

Remember, every pregnancy is unique, and the impact of uterine fibroids can vary from woman to woman. You can take proactive steps to manage and minimise potential risks by staying informed and working closely with a surgeon. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure the best possible outcome for you and your baby.