Millions of women throughout the world suffer from uterine fibroid, a common ailment. While they can cause symptoms such as heavy bleeding and pelvic pain, many women with fibroid can become pregnant and have a healthy baby. However, it can also pose some risks during pregnancy, and women need to understand these risks and how to manage them.

Non-cancerous growths called fibroid can form in the uterus. Many women that have it don’t know how these growths can affect pregnancy. While many women with fibroid can have healthy pregnancies some may face challenges. It can sometimes cause complications such as pain bleeding or difficulties during delivery. In this article, we’ll explore the relationship between fibroid and pregnancy, and reveal the hidden secrets you should know.

Understanding Fibroid

Non-cancerous growths which are also called uterine fibroid grow inside the uterus. They can vary in size, shape, and location, and can cause a range of symptoms, including heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, and pressure on the bladder or bowel. They are most common during the reproductive years and tend to shrink after menopause.

Fibroid And Pregnancy: What Are The Risks?

While fibroid are common, they can pose some risks during pregnancy. Some of the potential risks include:

1. Miscarriage: Women with fibroid are at higher risk of miscarriage, particularly if the fibroid are large or located in the uterine cavity.
2. Preterm labor: It can increase the risk of preterm labor, particularly if they are large or located near the cervix.
3. Placental abruption: It can increase the risk of placental abruption, a condition in which the placenta separates from the uterus.
4. Fetal growth restriction: It can also reduce blood flow to the placenta, increasing the risk of fetal growth restriction.

How Fibroid Affect Pregnancy

It can affect pregnancy in several ways. Some of the ways it impact pregnancy include:

1. Increased risk of cesarean section: Women with fibroid are at higher risk of needing a cesarean section, particularly if it is large or located near the cervix.
2. Prolonged labor: It has the ability to prolong labor, particularly if they are large or located near the cervix.
3. Postpartum hemorrhage: It can increase the risk of postpartum hemorrhage, a condition in which the uterus fails to contract after delivery.

Managing Fibroid During Pregnancy

While fibroid can pose some risks during pregnancy, there are steps women can take to manage their symptoms and reduce their risk of complications. Some of the ways women can manage fibroid during pregnancy include:

• Monitoring fetal growth: Regular ultrasounds can help monitor fetal growth and detect any potential problems.
• Managing symptoms: Women can manage their symptoms by taking pain relief medication, practicing relaxation techniques, and getting plenty of rest.
• Avoiding certain activities: Women with fibroid should avoid certain activities, such as heavy lifting or bending, which can exacerbate symptoms.

Treatment Options For Fibroid During Pregnancy

In some cases, women with fibroid may need medical treatment during pregnancy. Some of the treatment options for fibroids during pregnancy include:

• Watchful waiting: Women with small fibroid may be able to manage their symptoms with watchful waiting, which involves regular monitoring of the fibroid and the pregnancy.
• Pain relief medication: Women with fibroid can take pain relief medication, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, to manage their symptoms.
• Surgery: In some cases, women with fibroid may need surgery during pregnancy. This is typically only recommended for women with large fibroid that are causing significant symptoms or complications.

Preparing For The Future: Life After Pregnancy With Fibroid

After pregnancy, women with fibroid may need to consider further treatment options to manage their symptoms and prevent future complications. Some women may choose to undergo surgery to remove the fibroid, while others may opt for less invasive treatments such as hormone therapy or uterine artery embolization. Women need to discuss their options with their healthcare provider and make an informed decision about their care. By taking proactive steps to manage their fibroid, women can reduce their risk of future complications and improve their overall quality of life.

Conclusion

Fibroid and pregnancy can be a complex and challenging combination. While fibroid can pose some risks during pregnancy, women can take steps to manage their symptoms and reduce their risk of complications. By understanding the risks and challenges associated with fibroid and pregnancy, women can make informed decisions about their care and ensure the best possible outcome for themselves and their babies. Women with fibroid need to discuss their condition with their healthcare provider before becoming pregnant to understand any potential risks and to ensure a safe pregnancy journey.