Symptoms of Fibroids During Pregnancy

Common Symptoms of Fibroids During Pregnancy

During pregnancy, your body goes through many changes. Hormones like oestrogen increase, which can cause fibroids to grow larger. As they grow, they may start to cause noticeable symptoms.

Pelvic and Abdominal Pain

The most frequent symptom of fibroids during pregnancy is pain in the pelvic area or lower abdomen. This pain can feel dull and persistent, or it can be sharp and severe. It happens because the growing fibroids might press on nearby organs or outgrow their own blood supply, causing the tissue to break down.

Persistent Cramping

Some women experience cramping that feels similar to menstrual cramps. This sensation can be worrying, but it is often caused by the uterus contracting around the fibroid. While mild cramping can be normal, persistent or severe cramps should always be discussed with your doctor to rule out other problems.

A Sensation of Pressure or Fullness

As fibroids get bigger, they can create a feeling of pressure or fullness in your lower belly. You might feel like you constantly need to go to the toilet, or you may just feel a general heaviness in your pelvic region. This happens because the fibroids take up extra space and press against your bladder and other organs.

Digestive Issues and Back Pain

Fibroids can also affect your digestive system and back. If a fibroid presses on your rectum, it can lead to constipation and bloating. Similarly, a fibroid located on the back wall of your uterus can press on nerves and muscles in your lower back, causing a persistent ache or discomfort. You might also find yourself needing to urinate more often if a fibroid is pushing on your bladder.

Complications Linked to Fibroid Symptoms

While many women with fibroids have no problems during pregnancy, larger or numerous fibroids can sometimes lead to complications. The symptoms you experience might be linked to these potential risks, which is why it’s so important to keep your doctor informed.

Increased Risk of Miscarriage

In the early stages of pregnancy, very large fibroids can sometimes increase the risk of miscarriage. This might happen if a fibroid distorts the shape of the uterus, making it difficult for the embryo to implant or grow properly.

Preterm Labour

One of the more significant risks is preterm labour. The pressure from large fibroids can cause the uterus to become irritable and start contracting before the baby is full-term. If you experience regular, painful contractions before 37 weeks, it could be a sign of preterm labour.

Placental Abruption

In rare cases, a fibroid growing behind the placenta can cause it to detach from the uterine wall before delivery. This is a serious condition called placental abruption, which can cause severe vaginal bleeding and abdominal pain. It requires immediate medical attention.

Issues During Labour and Delivery

Fibroids can also cause challenges during childbirth. A large fibroid near the cervix can block the baby’s path, a condition known as obstructed labour. This might make a caesarean section (C-section) necessary. Fibroids can also affect the baby’s position in the womb, causing them to be in a breech (feet-first) or transverse (sideways) position, which also often requires a C-section.

After birth, fibroids can interfere with the uterus’s ability to contract back to its normal size. This can lead to excessive bleeding, known as postpartum haemorrhage, which is a serious but treatable complication.

Less Common Symptoms and Concerns

In some instances, fibroids can cause other, less common issues. If a fibroid is pressing directly on the urethra (the tube that carries urine out of the body), it can make urination difficult.

For some women, fibroids can also be a factor in fertility problems before they even become pregnant. Depending on their size and location, fibroids can sometimes make it harder to conceive or lead to recurrent pregnancy loss. If you are having trouble getting pregnant and know you have fibroids, it may be helpful to speak with a Fertility Specialist in Hyderabad.

When Should You Seek Medical Attention?

Pregnancy comes with many new sensations, and it can be hard to know what’s normal and what’s not. If you have been diagnosed with fibroids, you should contact your doctor if you experience any of the following:

• Sharp or persistent pelvic pain that doesn’t go away.
• Severe vaginal bleeding at any point during your pregnancy.
• Signs of preterm labour, such as regular contractions, a dull lower backache, or a change in vaginal discharge.
• Any other unusual abdominal symptoms, like a high fever with pain or vomiting.

Your healthcare team is there to support you. The experts at Mamata Fertility Hospital in Hyderabad can provide the close monitoring and care needed to navigate a pregnancy with fibroids safely. Never hesitate to reach out with your concerns.

FAQ

Do fibroids grow faster during pregnancy?
– Yes, fibroids can grow faster during pregnancy due to higher oestrogen levels. However, not all fibroids increase in size, and many women complete pregnancy safely under medical supervision.

Can fibroids cause pain or cramping while pregnant?
– Yes, fibroids can cause mild to severe abdominal or pelvic pain due to pressure on nearby organs or red degeneration. If pain becomes severe, consult your doctor immediately.

Are fibroids dangerous for the baby during pregnancy?
– In most cases, fibroids do not affect the baby. However, large fibroids can sometimes cause complications like preterm labour or restricted growth, requiring close monitoring.

Can I have a normal delivery if I have fibroids?
– Many women with fibroids have normal deliveries. However, if fibroids block the birth canal or affect the baby’s position, a C-section may be recommended for safety.

Conclusion

Discovering you have fibroids while pregnant can be stressful, but it’s important to remember that the vast majority of women go on to have healthy babies. Most fibroids do not cause any symptoms at all. For those that do, close monitoring and care from your medical team can manage the risks effectively.

Regular prenatal checkups are crucial. Your doctor will use an ultrasound to track the size of your fibroids and the growth of your baby. Being proactive and staying in close communication with a trusted provider, such as the Fertility Specialist team at Mamata Fertility Hospital in Hyderabad, will ensure you and your baby receive the best possible care throughout your pregnancy journey.