Uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomas, are benign tumors that develop in a woman’s uterus. They may grow due to increased estrogen levels, making them a common condition during pregnancy. About 6 out of 10 pregnant women aged 35 and above experience fibroids. Most uterine fibroids shrink on their own after childbirth as hormone levels decrease, so in many cases, there is no cause for concern. However, some fibroids may enlarge during pregnancy, and doctors may find it difficult to detect them due to the growth and development of the fetus, putting the expectant mother at risk of several complications. According to Healthline, here are the causes and symptoms of uterine fibroids during pregnancy.
Causes of Uterine Fibroids During Pregnancy
Women over 35 are at higher risk of developing fibroids during pregnancy. Other risk factors include:
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Pregnancy at age 35 or older.
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Being overweight or obese.
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A family history of fibroids.
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Vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy.
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Excessive soy consumption during pregnancy.
Fibroids that existed before pregnancy usually persist throughout pregnancy if left untreated, and their size often does not change. However, some women may experience an increase in fibroid size during the first trimester, followed by a decrease after childbirth. Women may have multiple fibroids in different locations and sizes during pregnancy.
Conversely, women who became pregnant before age 35 or used hormonal contraception (pills or injections) for a long time have a lower risk of developing fibroids.
Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids During Pregnancy
Certain symptoms may indicate the presence of fibroids, and medical consultation is essential:
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Severe pain during pregnancy.
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Bleeding or spotting.
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Lower back pain.
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Constipation.
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Frequent urination or the feeling of incomplete bladder emptying.
Fibroids are often difficult to detect during pregnancy because they are obscured by the growing fetus and may not cause any symptoms. Monitoring fetal growth is the best way to remain vigilant.
Risks of Enlarged Fibroids on the Fetus
Restricted fetal growth: Fibroids can hinder fetal development, and studies suggest that women with fibroids during pregnancy are twice as likely to experience miscarriage.
Severe abdominal pain: Fibroids can cause pain that interferes with daily activities. This pain may lead to uterine contractions, potentially causing preterm labor. Some women may also experience bleeding during the first trimester, which can occasionally result in miscarriage.
Placental abruption: Fibroids can interfere with the placenta’s attachment to the uterine wall, leading to detachment. Large fibroids may also displace the fetus, causing abnormal positioning relative to gestational age.
Difficult labor: Fibroids may block the birth canal, stopping labor or causing complications. They can also lead to heavy bleeding during or shortly after childbirth.
Cesarean section: Women with fibroids during pregnancy are six times more likely to require a cesarean section due to potential complications such as uterine rupture during labor or in the postpartum period.
Treatment of Uterine Fibroids During Pregnancy
Fibroids typically develop due to increased estrogen and progesterone levels during pregnancy. Most fibroids shrink naturally after birth as hormone levels decrease. If a fibroid does not threaten the pregnancy, there is generally no need for concern.
If a fibroid is large enough to obstruct the birth canal, a cesarean section may be recommended. In some cases, the fibroid can be removed during the C-section.
Before pregnancy, doctors may recommend hormonal contraception (pills, injections, or hormonal IUDs) or gonadotropin-releasing hormones to treat fibroids.
Prevention of Fibroids During Pregnancy
Preventing fibroids before pregnancy is preferable, as treatment during pregnancy is complex. Recommendations include:
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Regular medical check-ups, especially if over 35 and planning your first pregnancy.
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Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and limiting excessive caffeine intake.
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Reducing stress and anxiety, as hormonal imbalances can contribute to fibroid development. Maintaining emotional balance through enjoyable activities and positive thinking is beneficial throughout pregnancy.
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