Can you get pregnant with uterine fibroids?

Yes, it is possible to get pregnant if you have uterine fibroids, but in some cases, fibroids can interfere with conception.

The size of your fibroid as well as its location determine whether or not it will affect your fertility.

For example, if your fibroid is blocking a fallopian tube, it can make becoming pregnant more difficult. It is also possible that a fibroid growing inside the uterus might impede sperm from reaching your egg. This can happen when fibroids alter the shape of the uterus and/or cervix, decreasing the amount of sperm that are able to enter the uterus. Fibroids can also prevent a fertilized egg from implanting in the uterine lining if blood flow to the area is affected.

Still, the majority of women who have fibroids will not become infertile as a result, and fertility issues caused by fibroids typically improve after fibroid treatment.

Although fibroids sometimes make conceiving harder, it’s much more common for fibroids to cause issues after you become pregnant. Fibroids are most likely to become larger in size during the first trimester. If fibroids become too large, they can alter the position of your baby, increasing your risk of a miscarriage or delivering too early; these events are the most pressing concerns when fibroids are present. If a fibroid is blocking the cervix or otherwise making a vaginal birth risky, it may be necessary for you to have a cesarean section. Fibroids may also cause premature separation of the placenta or bleeding problems during delivery.

Overall, it’s harder for women with fertility challenges and fibroids to become pregnant than it is for those who do not have fibroids or who have received treatment for fibroids. If you think fibroids are interfering with your ability to get pregnant, it’s important to see a fertility specialist to rule out other causes.