Can fibroids complicate a pregnancy?

I am 33 years old, and entering the 33rd week of my first pregnancy. Three weeks ago I found out I had a myoma on my uterus. At the time it was even causing pain and contractions, so I have had to stay in bed ever since and take medicine. Fortunately the contractions have subsided, and it seems that my pregnancy will continue without further problems.

However, I am afraid that the myoma is growing bigger and bigger, you can see it and feel it just next to my navel without any instrument's -- help!

I would like to have more children in a few years, I suppose that, before the second pregnancy, the fibroid will have to be taken out. Do you think that, given the circumstances, it would be possible or recommendable to undergo a Cesarean section, and have my baby and get rid of the tumor in one go? I look forward to hearing from you.

I'm glad your contractions have settled down. I know how hard it can be dealing with the threat of preterm labor, and how frustrating it is to be on bed rest. You've raised an excellent question -- what to do about a fibroid that's causing trouble in pregnancy. Uterine fibroids, or leiomyomas, are very common and usually not a problem during pregnancy. But for some, fibroids can wreck havoc in an otherwise uncomplicated pregnancy.

These smooth muscle tumors can grow during pregnancy in response to elevated hormone levels. When there's rapid growth, it can lead to pain or pressure, or even trigger preterm labor. Large fibroids can also affect the position of the baby, or prevent normal labor and delivery by blocking the path of the baby through the birth canal.

As your pregnancy continues your doctor will monitor the position of the baby, checking to see if she is head first and how well she's moving into the pelvis. Since your fibroid is up near your belly button, it's possible that it won't affect labor or delivery at all. After delivery, hormone levels fall and fibroids shrink dramatically -- sometimes they don't even grow with future pregnancies.

If your baby is breech, then a C-section may be recommended. In that case, your doctor might feel that removing the fibroid at the same time is wise. But again, this depends on the size and location of the fibroid, which may not be clear until the time of surgery. There's no sense in taking unnecessary risks where your future fertility is concerned.

When it comes to fibroids in pregnancy, a "wait and see" approach is usually best. I hope you enjoy the rest of your pregnancy.

Labels: Pregnancy health