Uterine
Fibroids

Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths of the uterus that often appear during childbearing years. Also called leiomyomas or myomas, uterine fibroids aren’t associated with an increased risk of uterine cancer and almost never develop into any form of cancer.

Fibroids range in size from seedlings, undetectable by the human eye, to bulky masses that can distort and enlarge the uterus. You can have a single fibroid or multiple ones. In extreme cases, multiple fibroids can expand the uterus so much that it reaches the rib cage.

Many women have uterine fibroids sometime during their lifetime but most cause no symptoms so women aren’t even aware they have them. Your IRMS physician may discover fibroids incidentally during a pelvic exam or transvaginal ultrasound.

Pregnancy And Fibroids

Fibroids usually don’t interfere with getting pregnant; however, it is possible that fibroids — especially submucosal fibroids — can cause infertility or pregnancy loss. When fibroids reach a certain size, they can act as an IUD in the uterus. Fibroids may also raise the risk of certain pregnancy complications, such as placental abruption, fetal growth restriction and preterm delivery. If you are found to have uterine fibroids you will discuss with your IRMS Physician whether it is best to remove your fibroid(s) prior to embarking on fertility treatment.