Uterine fibroids are one of the most common causes of infertility. They are non-cancerous tumors that develop on the side of the uterus that can have a profound affect on a woman’s ability to conceive, although the location, size and type of fibroid are large determinants as to whether or not they will affect fertility.
Uterine Fibroids Defined
Uterine fibroids are actually made up of uterine tissue cells that grow into benign tumors. They typically grow in clusters, but their sizes can range from that of a pencil tip to that of a small baseball. Overactive hormones, such as those occurring during menopause, are thought to be a contributing factor to uterine fibroids. However, in women of conceptual age, it is more likely a genetic tendency that has caused the development of fibroids. With such a high rate of occurrence (between a 50% and an 80% chance of occurrence throughout a woman’s lifetime), there is very strong evidence to indicate a genetic predisposition.
Uterine Fibroid Types
There are 3 different types of fibroids that affect the uterus, each with their own distinctive affect on fertility, as the location and size of the fibroid have a large impact on the ability to conceive and carry a child. The types of uterine fibroids are:
- Subserosal – These grow on the outside of the uterus, often becoming very large and affecting other organs.
- Intramural – These grow on the inner layers of the muscle of the uterus and are the most common type of uterine fibroid.
- Submucosal – These grow on the inner layers of the uterine tissue and are a very rare occurrence. When they do occur, they decrease the ability to conceive.
Affect on Fertility
It is important to know that most uterine fibroids do not affect fertility and the ability to conceive, with roughly 20% of cases being held accountable for fertility issues. In most cases, if the tumors are small enough, there are no symptoms produced and conception can occur normally. If, however, the tumors metastasize and grow to become large tumors, then there is the reality of decreased fertility.
Again, the type and location of the fibroid play an imperative role in fertility. Intramural fibroids are common, but do not usually grow to be large enough to affect conception. Submucosal fibroids, on the other hand, are rare but typically grow to be very large and have a drastic impact on nearby organ structures (and a woman’s ability to conceive).
Treatment and Fertility Options
The first step in any fertility plan will be to treat the uterine fibroids and increase the chances of conception. One of the more positive aspects of fibroids is that they typically disappear on their own with little to no treatment needed. If the fibroids persist, there are some medications available with the proven capability of shrinking the tumors.
In most cases, medication is all the treatment that is needed. Sometimes, however, surgical removal of the fibroids may be necessary. The important thing to remember is that uterine fibroids can affect fertility, but they are also highly treatable.
