Fibroid treatment may increase the likelihood of welcoming a baby

Approximately 20% of women in their childbearing years will deal with fibroids, according to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM). These generally benign growths can affect your reproductive health and may contribute to infertility. David T. Vandermolen MD, our Northern Louisiana fertility clinic expert, uses advanced technology to identify issues related to infertility, including fibroids. Additionally, he uses the latest fibroid treatment so that you can achieve your goal of having a healthy pregnancy and baby.

What are uterine fibroids?

Found in the uterus, fibroids are tumors of the muscle. They are also referred to as fibromyomas, leiomyomas or myomas. Conservative estimates suggest that 70% of Caucasian women and 80% of African American women will receive a fibroid diagnosis by age 50. Fibroids can vary in size, ranging from imperceptible to larger than a grapefruit. We classify fibroids based on the location where they occur.

• Subserosal fibroids (outside the uterus)
• Intramural fibroids (within the uterine wall)
• Submucosal fibroids (inside the uterine cavity)

Not all fibroids present with symptoms. However, some common signs to watch for include abnormal bleeding, pelvic pressure, abdominal discomfort and pain during intercourse.

Exploring fibroid treatment options

While fibroids can affect fertility, many women with fibroids will have no difficulty getting pregnant. ASRM data suggest that between 5% to 10% of women will need fibroid treatment because of infertility. Generally, uterine fibroids affect fertility by creating blockages in the fallopian tubes, changing the uterine shape, reducing blood flow to the uterus, affecting the thickness of the uterine lining and/or altering the shape of the cervix. Treatment can help resolve pain and address fertility concerns.

As part of a complete fertility evaluation, we will screen for fibroids, including performing a pelvic exam as well as an ultrasound to confirm the fibroids size and location. Treatment will depend on the location and size of the growths, but it may include drug therapy and surgical intervention.

Visit our Northern Louisiana fertility clinic and receive exceptional care

If you are experiencing symptoms of fibroids and having difficulty conceiving, we can help. Dr. Vandermolen has the clinical expertise to diagnose and treat the causes of infertility. Contact our office for more information about fibroid treatment or to schedule an appointment.