Abnormal growths of muscle tissue occurring in the tissue of the uterus or the cervix are called fibroids. A fibroid is a condition encountered quite frequently in women. In this condition, which arises from the excessive growth of the muscles in the uterus called the myometrium, more than one fibroid is generally found. When the formation of a fibroid is observed, the first thing that comes to mind is whether it causes infertility. Although not all fibroid formations cause infertility, depending on where they occur and their size they can be an obstacle to becoming pregnant. The symptoms of fibroids also vary according to where they occur. For this reason, women who experience the symptoms of a fibroid need to consult a doctor without losing time. In people who have fibroids in their first-degree relatives, the risk of fibroids appearing is quite high.
The Relationship Between Fibroids and Infertility
Fibroids can cause infertility depending on where they grow. Fibroids called subserosal, which grow towards the outer part of the uterus, do not in any way harm women’s reproductive system. However, the fibroids called submucosal grow towards the cavity in the inner part of the uterus and for this reason cause infertility. These fibroids fill the inner part of the uterus where the pregnancy takes place. Although it cannot be said that 100% infertility occurs, they significantly lower the chance of becoming pregnant. Fibroids that grow within the wall of the uterus but do not show any growth inwards or outwards, on the other hand, affect the chance of pregnancy adversely only when they reach a size of 5 cm and above.
The Symptoms of Fibroids
The formation of fibroids generally shows the same symptoms. However, depending on where they form, these symptoms can differ, albeit slightly. Fibroids generally cause excessive bleeding during the menstrual period. These bleeds are also seen after the menstrual period. Difficulty and severe pain during sexual intercourse, pain in the lower back area, frequent urges to urinate and swelling in the abdominal or uterine area are frequently encountered symptoms of fibroids. Rarely, fibroids press on the bowels. In these situations constipation also occurs. In some cases, on the other hand, fibroids form without showing any symptom. For this reason they emerge by chance at routine gynaecological examinations. It is therefore recommended that especially women of reproductive age have regular gynaecological examinations.