Beyond delivery: Long-term implications of fibroids detected during pregnancy

Fibroids, non-cancerous growths in the uterus, are a common occurrence in women, especially during their childbearing years. While they may not always cause noticeable symptoms, detecting fibroids during pregnancy can raise questions about their long-term impact on both mother and child. Dr.Sumiti Mehta, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at CK Birla Hospital delves into the potential implications of fibroids detected during pregnancy, shedding light on what lies beyond delivery.
During pregnancy, fibroids can sometimes grow larger due to increased estrogen levels and blood flow to the uterus. While most fibroids do not pose a significant risk to the pregnancy itself, they can occasionally lead to complications such as miscarriage, preterm birth, or problems with the position of the baby. However, the majority of women with fibroids have uncomplicated pregnancies and deliver healthy babies.

Once the baby is born and the immediate postpartum period has passed, women may wonder about the long-term effects of fibroids detected during pregnancy. One common concern is whether fibroids will affect future pregnancies. While the presence of fibroids may increase the risk of certain complications in subsequent pregnancies, such as placental abruption or breech presentation, many women with fibroids go on to have successful pregnancies after their initial diagnosis.
Another consideration is the impact of fibroids on fertility and the ability to conceive. In some cases, fibroids can interfere with fertility by blocking the fallopian tubes or disrupting the normal architecture of the uterus. However, many women with fibroids are able to conceive and carry a pregnancy to term with appropriate medical management.

Beyond fertility and pregnancy outcomes, there are also potential long-term implications of fibroids for women's health. For example, fibroids may cause heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, or pressure on surrounding organs, leading to discomfort and decreased quality of life. In some cases, fibroids may grow or become symptomatic over time, requiring medical intervention such as medication, surgery, or minimally invasive procedures to alleviate symptoms.
It's important for women with fibroids detected during pregnancy to work closely with their healthcare providers to monitor their condition and address any concerns. Regular follow-up appointments and imaging studies may be recommended to track the size and growth of fibroids over time. Additionally, women should be aware of potential warning signs such as severe abdominal pain, heavy bleeding, or difficulty urinating, which may indicate complications related to fibroids.
In conclusion, while fibroids detected during pregnancy can raise questions and concerns about their long-term implications, many women go on to lead healthy lives and have successful pregnancies after their initial diagnosis. By staying informed, working closely with healthcare providers, and monitoring their condition, women can navigate the journey beyond delivery with confidence and peace of mind.
(Dr Sumiti Mehta, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at CK Birla Hospital, Gurgaon)