Fibroid Awareness Month: Fertility and Fibroids — What Every Woman Needs to Know About Reproductive Health

Every July, Fibroid Awareness Month brings a vital spotlight to an often-overlooked topic in women’s health: the link between fertility and fibroids. For millions of women, uterine fibroids disrupt daily life and complicate the dream of becoming a parent. Yet, with personalized care and advancements in reproductive medicine, hope is far from lost.

“Understanding fibroids isn’t just about symptom management; it’s about empowering women with knowledge so they can make informed choices about their reproductive health,” says Dr. Minoos Hosseinzadeh, Founder and Medical Director at Fertility Institute of San Diego.

What Are Uterine Fibroids?

Uterine fibroids are benign, non-cancerous tumors that grow within or around the uterus. These growths, also called leiomyomas or myomas, can vary in size from as small as a seed to larger than a grapefruit. Though they are common—affecting up to 70% of women by age 50—many remain asymptomatic.

How Fibroids Affect Reproductive Health

The connection between fertility and fibroids is nuanced. While not all fibroids impact conception or pregnancy, certain types can interfere with implantation, distort the uterine cavity, or lead to recurrent pregnancy loss.

“Fibroids located within the uterine cavity, known as submucosal fibroids, are particularly associated with decreased fertility,” explains Dr. Hosseinzadeh. “They can affect the endometrial lining, where an embryo would ideally implant.”

Symptoms of Fibroids

Many women with fibroids experience no symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they can include:

  • Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
  • Pelvic pressure or pain
  • Frequent urination
  • Pain during intercourse
  • Lower back pain
  • Constipation
  • Infertility or recurrent miscarriages

The severity and presence of symptoms often depend on the size, location, and number of fibroids.

Causes and Risk Factors

While the exact cause of fibroids remains uncertain, several risk factors have been identified:

  • Genetics: Family history plays a significant role.
  • Hormones: Estrogen and progesterone stimulate fibroid growth.
  • Race: African American women are more likely to develop fibroids, and at a younger age.
  • Diet: High red meat consumption and low intake of green vegetables may increase risk.
  • Age: Most common in women aged 30–50.

Complications Linked to Fertility

Fibroids can:

  • Block fallopian tubes
  • Interfere with blood flow to the endometrium
  • Disrupt embryo implantation
  • Cause complications during pregnancy such as placental abruption or preterm labor

“It’s not just about whether fibroids are present,” notes Dr. Hosseinzadeh, “but where they are and how they interact with the uterine environment. That’s why individualized assessment is key.”

Diagnosis: When and How

Diagnosing fibroids typically involves pelvic exams and imaging tests:

  • Transvaginal ultrasound
  • MRI scans for detailed mapping
  • Hysterosonography (saline infusion sonogram)
  • Hysteroscopy for visual evaluation of the uterine cavity

Early diagnosis allows for timely management, especially when fertility preservation is a concern.

Fibroid Management and Treatment Options

Treatment depends on a woman’s symptoms, reproductive goals, and fibroid characteristics. Options include:

1. Medical Management

  • Hormonal therapies (GnRH agonists, progestins)
  • Non-hormonal options (tranexamic acid for bleeding control)

2. Surgical Options

  • Myomectomy: Surgical removal of fibroids, ideal for women wishing to preserve fertility
  • Hysterectomy: Complete removal of the uterus, used in severe cases or when fertility is no longer desired
  • Hysteroscopic resection: Minimally invasive removal of submucosal fibroids

3. Minimally Invasive Procedures

  • Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE): Blocks blood supply to fibroids; not always recommended for women seeking pregnancy
  • Radiofrequency ablation: Uses heat to shrink fibroids; still under research for fertility impact

Prevention and Lifestyle Considerations

Though fibroids can’t always be prevented, certain lifestyle changes may reduce risk:

  • Maintaining a healthy weight
  • Eating a balanced diet rich in leafy greens and low in red meat
  • Regular pelvic exams for early diagnosis
  • Regular physical activity

The Cost of Treatment

Fibroid treatment costs vary depending on the method, insurance coverage, and healthcare setting. While myomectomy and embolization can range from $5,000 to $12,000, many fertility-focused procedures may be covered under reproductive health benefits or fertility preservation plans.

At Fertility Institute of San Diego, our concierge-style approach ensures that patients receive personalized financial counseling to navigate insurance and out-of-pocket costs.

When to See a Specialist

If you’re experiencing fibroid symptoms or struggling to conceive, it’s crucial to seek expert guidance.

“Women often delay seeking help, thinking their symptoms are ‘normal’,” says Dr. Hosseinzadeh. “If your quality of life is affected or you’re trying to start a family, don’t wait. Early intervention can make all the difference.”

FAQs

Are fibroids cancerous?
No, fibroids are benign. Less than 1% may become cancerous (a condition called leiomyosarcoma), but this is extremely rare.

Can fibroids go away on their own?
Some fibroids shrink after menopause due to lower estrogen levels. However, others may require treatment if symptomatic.

Is pregnancy possible with fibroids?
Yes, many women with fibroids conceive and carry healthy pregnancies. Fertility outcomes improve with proper management.

How do I know if fibroids are affecting my fertility?
Consult a fertility specialist. Imaging and diagnostic tools can determine if fibroids are interfering with conception.

What is the most fertility-preserving treatment?
Myomectomy is the gold standard for removing fibroids while preserving the uterus and future pregnancy potential.

Take the Next Step

If you’re ready to start your fertility journey, please book a complimentary virtual consultation with Dr. Hosseinzadeh to go over fertility options or any other reproductive healthcare questions. Click here to schedule.

Article Sources and Authentication

This article was medically reviewed and approved by Dr. Minoos Hosseinzadeh, Founder and Medical Director of Fertility Institute of San Diego, a boutique fertility clinic located in San Diego, California. Dr. Hosseinzadeh is a double board-certified Reproductive Endocrinologist with over 25 years of experience in helping individuals and couples build their families. She is known for her highly personalized, one-on-one care and her commitment to providing the most advanced reproductive technologies in a compassionate and inclusive environment.

All content published on our blog is developed in collaboration with medical professionals, thoroughly researched using peer-reviewed sources, and reviewed to ensure accuracy, clarity, and relevance.

For a list of all our sources please click here: https://fertilityinstitutesandiego.com/sources-and-references/

Book Your Free Initial Video Consult

By submitting this form, you consent to receiving SMS and Email appointment reminders, marketing messages, general information, and healthcare-related messages from Fertility Institute San Diego, including those sent by autodialer. Message and data rates may apply. Message frequency varies. You can unsubscribe at any time by replying STOP or clicking the unsubscribe link in our messages. View our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service.

Popular Fertility Reads

Categories

More Fertility Reads

Fertility Clinic in San Diego

Have a question? Our fertility specialists are happy to assist