Fibroids and Pregnancy
Fibroids Explained
These are benign connective tissue growths that develop in and around the womb. Fibroids are very common with 20% to 80% of women having at least one . What you may not know is that 10-30% of women also have fibroids during pregnancy. There are three types of uterine fibroids:
- Intramural: These are the most common type of fibroid and grow on the inner wall of the womb. Unless they are large, women are often not aware of their existence.
- Subserosal: Subserosal fibroids are found under the mucosal layer and the outside of your womb.
- Submucosal: Because these are intra-uterine fibroids they can deform of the uterus. It is not uncommon for women with these fibroids to experience bleeding. Additionally, these lesions are the ones typically linked to infertility.
Go and see free fibroids and pregnancy articles here.
Why do Fibroids Develop?
The exact cause of uterine fibroids in unknown. Recent research shows that a) women between 20 and 50 years of age are most commonly affected and b) African women develop uterine fibroids more often than non African women.
Uterine Fibroid Symptoms
Often times women never experience symptoms at all. However, when symptoms are experienced, they are related to the size and location of the lesion.Symptoms of fibroids include heavy bleeding, prolonged periods, painful intercourse, bloating and constipation, back or leg pain and pelvic pressure or pain.
What about Fibroids during Pregnancy?
When a woman becomes pregnant, there are enough things to worry about so having to deal with fibroids during pregnancy is something that is never easy to cope with. In spite of this, there is good news. Women with fibroids during pregnancy will not usually suffer negative affects. On occasion, women may suffer discomfort in the pelvis as well as limited bleeding. Your doctor will know if you have fibroids so you can be well prepared for any situation that may arise with fibroids during pregnancy.
Sadly, there are numerous complications that can occur as a consequence of fibroids during pregnancy. These include:
• spontaneous abortion
• Premature labor and hence birth
• Obstructed labor
• Cesarean section if the uterus is blocked
• Excessive bleeding after delivery
{Reviewing these possible problems at the time your obstetrician finds your fibroids will help you to be mentally prepared. Just remember that these occurrences are not the norm.
Remember to check this free information on fibroids and pregnancy.
Treatment of Fibroids during pregnancy
If invasive treatment is indicated, it is often best avoided where possible until after the baby arrives. If you suffer pain, your doctor will be able to provide help. Of course, you should seek immediate care should you experience bleeding.
These 2 bits of advice may help when dealing with fibroids and pregnancy:
1. Reduce stress. Stress can take a toll on our bodies and decreasing the amount of stress in your life where possible may help to reduce excessive pain you may be experiencing with fibroids~Over time stress has a negative effect on our body. Decreasing stress can help alleviate pain associated with uterine fibroids}.
2. Maintain a well balanced, wholesome and nutritional diet. Avoid fast foods; eat whole foods because they will be less caloric and more nutritionally dense.Making sure your body has the nutrition it requires can control the symptoms of fibroids during pregnancy.
The aim of this article has been to inform you that fibroids during pregnancy will probably not affect your pregnancy adversely . However, in the name of being as safe as possible, tell your doctor if you are aware of the presence of fibroids.
If you're interested, viewthis great article about how infertility affects women.
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