A number of factors may affect a woman’s ability to get pregnant. Some of these factors are permanent while some can be overcome. Uterine fibroid is an example of a factor that can make it more difficult for a woman to get pregnant. It does not, however, totally ruin her chances.

First, let’s begin with a little explanation of what fibroids are and how they can affect conception.

Uterine fibroids are benign growths or tumors in the walls of the uterus. They are quite common occurrence as about 20 to 50% of all women will suffer from some of the general fibroids symptoms at one period of their life. Fibroids seem to occur more in black women, women over 35 years, and women with weight issues.

Uterine Fibroids and Pregnancy

Fibroids in the uterus do not directly cause a woman to become infertile. However, there are cases where women with fibroids find it difficult to conceive or get pregnant.

Cases such as these are caused by the effect of the tumor growth and other fibroids symptoms. The tumor growth can distort the shape of the uterus or fallopian tube, making it more difficult for sperm cells to reach the female egg during ovulation.

If there are some blockages in the fallopian tube, this may result that sperm cells are not able to travel the required distance to cause fertilization. Sometimes, even if conception does occur, fibroids can cause also miscarriage.

Getting Pregnant with Fibroids

Typically, a woman with uterine fibroids can get pregnant through normal intercourse. Like mentioned above, fibroids don’t make women infertile. They can only affect her chances of getting pregnant by causing some blockage in the fallopian tube.

If a woman with fibroids finds that she has not been able to conceive, she will need to see her gynecologist to determine the type of fibroid growth she has. The gynecologist will determine where it is located and how it is affecting the patient’s ability to get pregnant. The doctor will also be able to explain the best options available to her.

Available options include engaging in timed intercourse so as to have sex during her ovulation period. Another option is to have sperm cells placed directly inside her uterus during her fertile period with a process known as intra-uterine insemination.

For severe cases a myectomy can be performed. It involves removing the fibroid tissue from the walls of the uterus. In vitro fertilization is another viable option that involves using a drug that causes the woman to produce more eggs. The eggs are then fertilized outside the woman’s body and then returned to the uterus.

Uterine fibroids are usually harmless, and women should not be too worried about them. Even if you experience difficulties to conceive, there are options that can help you.