Can I get pregnant if I have had fibroids?
Typically, fibroids do not make it more difficult to become pregnant or have a healthy, full-term pregnancy. Most women who have been diagnosed with fibroids go on to have normal pregnancies.
Although rare, fibroids can cause infertility or pregnancy loss. Fibroids may increase the risk of certain pregnancy complications, such as cesarean section, placental abruption, and preterm delivery.
Will fibroids cause complications?
It is uncommon for fibroids to cause severe health complications. However, women can have heavy bleeding, which can lead to dangerous anemia. Rarely, large fibroids can press on the bladder and ureter, leading to enlarged kidneys. Other bothersome symptoms can occur when large fibroids press on nearby structures and organs. These include lower back pain, constipation, and frequent urination. Fibroids may also lead to pregnancy and fertility complications.
Are fibroids terminal?
While fibroids are not cancerous, you can develop complications because of your fibroids. Heavy bleeding from fibroids can cause anemia. Potentially life-threatening complications such as congestive heart failure, arrhythmia, angina, and heart attack can all result from untreated severe anemia.
Most fibroids are not dangerous or life-threatening. However, it is important that fibroids are treated and monitored by an expert, such as the physicians at the Weill Cornell Medicine Fibroid and Adenomyosis Program.
Are fibroids cancerous?
Uterine fibroids are not cancerous, and they do not increase the risk of uterine cancer. A cancerous fibroid, called a leiomyosarcoma, is a rare occurrence, less than one in 1,000. Doctors believe that these cancers do not arise from fibroids that already exist.
How are fibroids diagnosed?
Usually, fibroids are suspected when a patient reports bothersome symptoms of pelvic discomfort and/or heavy or irregular menses. It is important to schedule an appointment with your gynecologist for an evaluation. If the fibroid is large enough, your doctor may be able to feel it during an exam. If your doctor suspects fibroids, an ultrasound or MRI may be performed to confirm the diagnosis.
What are fibroids?
Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in the uterus. Your doctor may call them fibroid tumors, leiomyomas, or myomas. Fibroids can range in size from as small as a pea to as large as a melon. They can be located in several areas in the uterus and can cause different types of symptoms depending on their size and location.
Fibroids usually do not cause problems, and many women never even know they have them. Learn more about the signs and symptoms of uterine fibroids.
Dr. Joanna Harp specializes in complex medical dermatology and skin disorders related to internal disease. She helps treat patients hospitalized for COVID-19, as well as care for outpatients via video visits.
Madhu M. Ouseph, M.D., Ph.D.
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About Madhu M. Ouseph, M.D., Ph.D.
External Relationships
Relationships and collaborations with for-profit and not-for profit organizations are of vital importance to our faculty because these exchanges of scientific information foster innovation. As experts in their fields, WCM physicians and scientists are sought after by many organizations to consult and educate. WCM and its faculty make this information available to the public, thus creating a transparent environment.
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Insurances Accepted
For relevant information regarding accepted insurances, please contact this provider directly.
About Margaret Huynh, D.O.
External Relationships
Relationships and collaborations with for-profit and not-for profit organizations are of vital importance to our faculty because these exchanges of scientific information foster innovation. As experts in their fields, WCM physicians and scientists are sought after by many organizations to consult and educate. WCM and its faculty make this information available to the public, thus creating a transparent environment.
No External Relationships Reported
