The masses of tissue cells found growing on the uterine wall are called uterine fibroids. Many women have these growths and are not even aware until they are discovered during a routine exam. Even though these would seem to be a problem, the risks of pregnancy when having uterine fibroids are seldom a danger to the mother or fetus.
They seldom produce any symptoms that are recognizable. The majority of women who are pregnant do not even know they have them. A report from the National Institute of Health states that 77 percent of women have fibroids, while only 25 percent of them actually have any symptoms. Since they rarely pose a health risk, women are not screened specifically for them on a regular basis.
When a women becomes pregnant, estrogen levels rise and stay high. Higher levels of this hormone are what cause the fibroids to enlarge and grow. One that has grown out on it’s own stem is more liable to twist around itself with the shifting of the baby. This can cause slight pelvic pain which may be misunderstood and believed to be of a more serious nature.
Pelvic pain and light spotting are the very most common symptoms of this growth. These would be stressful signs to a woman carrying a fetus, although in reality they are not as threatening as they may look. A fetus fighting for space in the womb can cause light pelvic pain. Occurrences of light spotty bleeding are usually from small tears in the fibroids due to the movement of the baby.
The uterine wall’s integrity is definitely changed by the presence of fibroids. Even though these growths are actually a part of the wall itself. This leaves less of a smooth area for the placenta to attach to. In an extreme case, pre-mature labor may develop. Sometimes a miscarriage will be the result, but this is quite rare. Most miscarriages are due to other factors. It still is important to realize they are not without any risks.
An extremely large one will change the shape of the uterine cavity. This forces the fetus into unnatural and cramped positions. The term for this is malpresentation, and can be dangerous to the unborn child. At times a growth will fill or obstruct the actual birth canal. When this happens, the only option for birth is a cesarean section. Although research shows this is very rarely the cause that a cesarean birth is needed.
It would seem as though the removal of the tissue would be the obvious solution. The fact is hemorrhaging is always the result when one is removed. They are part of the actual wall and share the blood supply. Because of this, they are never removed when a woman is pregnant. It is too risky, as the bleeding cannot be stopped. Postpartum bleeding has been known to happen when one is ripped or severed during the birth process.
Uncommon as they may be to the female population, the risks are very real. Symptoms ranging from barely noticeable, to life threatening are of a valid concern to the gestating woman. The existence of advanced medical care can be credited for the ability to adjust to this condition.
Fibroids don’t usually cause any severe complications during pregnancy. However, if you want to learn how to minimize the risks even further, visit PCOSandFibroids.com. You will find information also about PCOS and ovarian cyst symptoms.