Will Fibroid Removal Help Fertility?

Fibroids are the most common benign tumor found in the uterus and may affect fertility. They may develop within the uterine wall, or they may become attached. Symptoms of fibroids may include increased menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain and frequent urination. Estrogen may stimulate the production of fibroids, as they may begin to show up as women enter their 20s and may not go away until after menopause.

Possible risk factors for developing fibroids include being over-weight, never giving birth and the presence of periods beginning before the age of 10. African-American women tend to have fibroids more often than other women, while heredity may also play a role in the development of fibroids.

Fertility may not be affected by fibroids that are within the uterine wall and do not change the shape of the uterine cavity, or those that bulge outside of the uterine wall. However, if fibroids change the shape of the uterine cavity or are within the cavity, fertility may be greatly decreased.

Fibroids are best detected and located using MRI. Hysterectomy and a saline-infusion sonography, a procedure that includes an ultrasound following the placement of sterile water in the uterine cavity, may also be effective. Ultrasound alone, though, may not be as effective.

Fibroids that bulge into the uterine cavity or are within the cavity may cause miscarriage as well. Fibroids may thin out the lining and decrease blood flow to the embryo if the fertilized egg implants in the uterine wall near a fibroid. Fibroids may also cause inflammation that may inhibit development.

The good news is that fibroids may be removed. A procedure called Myomectomy may be performed if the fibroids are bulging into the uterine cavity or are within the cavity. No incisions are required and the procedure is usually performed on an outpatient basis. A camera attached to a telescope that is passed through the cervix gives the doctor a visual of the fibroids. Electricity is then used to cut through the fibroids.

Hysterectomy, the removal of the uterus, is also used to treat fibroids. However, hysterectomy should only be used if the woman has no plans to become pregnant in the present or in the future.

Most women with fibroids do not have to undergo treatment. Women whose fibroids are causing infertility or are causing other symptoms should speak with a fertility specialist regarding possible treatment options. Unfortunately, there are currently no known medications to prevent fibroids or to remove them.

Justin suggests visiting a South Florida Fertility Doctor/b> for treatment options, advanced procedures and any further questions for
Fertility Solutions.