Many women trying to conceive are surprised to learn how closely fibroids and fertility can be linked. While uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths, they can interfere with conception and pregnancy in several ways. The connection isn’t always straightforward, but understanding it is essential for women facing infertility or complications with pregnancy.
In Houston, many women seek answers and solutions from experienced fibroid specialists who offer a range of fertility treatments for fibroids. Whether you’re in the early stages of planning for a family or have been trying to conceive without success, this guide will help you understand how fibroids might be affecting your fertility and what treatment options are available—both surgical and non-surgical—to improve your chances.
Table of Contents
- What Are Uterine Fibroids?
- How Fibroids Affect Fertility
- Uterine Fibroids and Infertility: The Medical Link
- When to Seek Treatment
- Fertility Treatment Options for Fibroids
- Finding the Right Fibroid Doctor in Houston
- Final Thoughts
1. What Are Uterine Fibroids?
Uterine fibroids, also called leiomyomas, are muscular tumors that grow in the wall of the uterus. They’re incredibly common, especially among women aged 30 to 50. Fibroids can vary in size—from barely detectable nodules to large masses that distort the uterus.
Although many women with fibroids don’t experience symptoms, for others, they may cause heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, frequent urination, or fertility issues.
2. How Fibroids Affect Fertility
Not all fibroids impact fertility, but certain types and locations can pose challenges. Fibroids that grow inside the uterine cavity (submucosal) or distort the shape of the uterus can interfere with embryo implantation or increase the risk of miscarriage.
Larger fibroids or those located near the fallopian tubes can also block egg passage or alter the function of the endometrial lining, making conception more difficult. In some cases, fibroids may not prevent pregnancy but can still complicate it.
3. Uterine Fibroids and Infertility: The Medical Link
The relationship between uterine fibroids and infertility depends on factors such as:
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Size and number of fibroids
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Location (especially submucosal or intramural fibroids)
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Distortion of uterine shape
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Endometrial disruption
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Impact on implantation and embryo development
Research shows that fibroids are found in 5–10% of infertile women and may be the sole cause in 1–2.4% of cases. Fortunately, treating the fibroids can often restore fertility, especially if they are the primary cause of infertility.
4. When to Seek Treatment
If you have fibroids and are struggling to conceive, it’s time to speak with a specialist. Treatment may be recommended if:
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You’ve been trying to get pregnant for over a year
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You experience heavy or irregular periods
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You’ve had repeated miscarriages
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Imaging reveals fibroids in or near the uterine cavity
A personalized evaluation can help determine if fibroids are impacting your reproductive health and what treatment approach will be most effective.
5. Fertility Treatment Options for Fibroids
There are several fibroid removal for fertility options available to help improve your chances of getting pregnant:
Myomectomy
A surgical procedure to remove fibroids while preserving the uterus. Myomectomy is often recommended for women with submucosal or large intramural fibroids and has a good success rate for restoring fertility.
Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE)
A non-surgical, minimally invasive treatment that shrinks fibroids by cutting off their blood supply. While UFE is highly effective in symptom relief, its use for women actively trying to conceive requires careful consideration and consultation with a fibroid specialist.
Hormonal Therapy
Short-term hormone treatments can help shrink fibroids or control symptoms before attempting conception or undergoing surgery. However, these are not long-term fertility solutions.
6. Finding the Right Fibroid Doctor in Houston
If you’re looking for compassionate, expert care, choosing a skilled fibroid doctor in Houston is a critical step. Look for providers who specialize in both fertility and fibroid management to ensure a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your goals.
At Fibroid Care, we help women understand their diagnosis, explore non-surgical and surgical treatments, and support them throughout their fertility journey. Our goal is to preserve your reproductive health while offering effective, minimally invasive options.
7. Final Thoughts
If you’re facing difficulties with conception and have been diagnosed with fibroids, you’re not alone—and you’re not without options. Understanding the link between fibroids and fertility is the first step in taking control of your reproductive health. With the right treatment and support, many women go on to conceive successfully and enjoy healthy pregnancies.
Don’t wait—connect with a fibroid specialist in Houston today and take the next step toward your fertility goals.
Disclaimer
This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider to discuss your specific symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment plan.