Fibroids and Fertility: How Uterine Fibroids Can Affect Your Chances of Pregnancy

July is Fibroid Awareness Month, an opportunity to raise awareness about a condition that affects up to 80% of women by age 50. Uterine fibroids are common, noncancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus. While many women never experience symptoms, others face heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, pressure, and fertility challenges.

One of the most important and often overlooked questions women ask is: Can fibroids affect fertility?

The answer depends on the size, number, and location of the fibroids. While many women with fibroids conceive naturally and have healthy pregnancies, certain fibroids can interfere with conception, implantation, and pregnancy outcomes.

What Are Uterine Fibroids?

Uterine fibroids, also called leiomyomas, are benign tumors made of muscle and connective tissue. They can vary significantly in size, from microscopic growths to masses large enough to change the shape of the uterus.

Fibroids are classified based on where they grow:

• Submucosal fibroids develop just beneath the uterine lining.
• Intramural fibroids grow within the muscular wall of the uterus.
• Subserosal fibroids develop on the outer surface of the uterus.

The location of a fibroid is often more important than its size when evaluating fertility.

How Do Fibroids Affect Fertility?

Not all fibroids impact fertility, but some can make it more difficult to become pregnant or carry a pregnancy to term.

1. Fibroids Can Block the Fallopian Tubes

Fibroids located near the upper corners of the uterus may block the openings of the fallopian tubes. This can prevent sperm from reaching the egg or interfere with the movement of a fertilized embryo.

2. Fibroids Can Distort the Uterine Cavity

Submucosal fibroids are particularly associated with fertility problems because they can alter the shape of the uterine cavity. This distortion may make it more difficult for an embryo to implant successfully.

3. Fibroids Can Affect Blood Flow to the Uterus

Large fibroids can interfere with normal blood flow to the uterine lining. A healthy uterine lining is essential for implantation and early pregnancy development.

4. Fibroids May Increase Pregnancy Risks

Certain fibroids have been associated with:

• Increased risk of miscarriage
• Implantation failure
• Preterm labor
• Breech presentation
• Cesarean delivery

Because every patient is unique, an individualized evaluation is essential when determining whether fibroids are contributing to infertility or pregnancy complications.

When Should Fibroids Be Removed?

Not every fibroid requires treatment.

Fibroid treatment is often recommended when fibroids:

• Cause heavy bleeding or significant pelvic pain
• Distort the uterine cavity
• Contribute to infertility
• Repeatedly interfere with IVF treatment
• Increase the risk of pregnancy complications

The decision to remove fibroids should be based on symptoms, reproductive goals, age, and the specific characteristics of the fibroids.

Why See a Reproductive Surgeon for Fibroid Treatment?

If you are hoping to become pregnant, choosing a specialist with expertise in both fertility and surgery can make a meaningful difference in your outcome.

A reproductive surgeon is a physician trained to manage fibroids while prioritizing future fertility.

Fertility Preservation Is the Priority

Unlike traditional surgical approaches that focus solely on removing fibroids, reproductive surgeons are trained to protect reproductive function throughout treatment. Surgical techniques are carefully selected to preserve the uterus and minimize scar tissue formation.

Advanced Minimally Invasive Surgery

Many women are candidates for minimally invasive procedures, including:

• Hysteroscopic myomectomy
• Laparoscopic myomectomy
• Robotic-assisted myomectomy

These approaches typically result in:

• Smaller incisions
• Less pain
• Faster recovery
• Reduced scarring
• Quicker return to fertility treatment
• A Comprehensive Fertility Plan

Fibroid treatment should never be viewed as an isolated procedure. A reproductive surgeon can help determine:

• Whether fibroids are affecting fertility
• If surgery is necessary
• When it is safe to begin trying to conceive
• The ideal timing for fertility treatments such as IVF

This integrated approach helps maximize both reproductive outcomes and long-term health.

Fibroids, IVF, and Fertility Treatment

Women undergoing fertility treatment often ask whether fibroids will affect IVF success rates.

The answer depends largely on the location of the fibroid. Fibroids that distort the uterine cavity are most likely to negatively impact embryo implantation and pregnancy rates. In these cases, removing the fibroid before IVF may improve the chances of success.

A fertility specialist can determine whether fibroid treatment should be part of your IVF plan.

When to See a Fertility Specialist for Fibroids

Consider scheduling an evaluation if you:

• Have been diagnosed with uterine fibroids
• Are experiencing heavy menstrual bleeding or pelvic pain
• Have been trying to conceive without success
• Have experienced recurrent miscarriage
• Are considering IVF or fertility preservation

Early evaluation can help identify whether fibroids are affecting your reproductive health and what treatment options may be available.

Take the Next Step

This Fibroid Awareness Month, take the opportunity to learn more about how fibroids may impact your fertility and future family-building goals.

At Fertility Centers of New England, our specialists provide personalized evaluation and advanced treatment options for women with uterine fibroids. Whether you are trying to conceive now or planning for the future, we can help you understand your options and develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fibroids and Fertility

Can fibroids cause infertility?

Some fibroids can contribute to infertility by blocking the fallopian tubes, distorting the uterine cavity, or affecting implantation. However, many women with fibroids conceive naturally.

Do all fibroids need to be removed before pregnancy?

No. Many fibroids do not affect fertility or pregnancy outcomes. Treatment recommendations depend on the fibroid’s size, location, symptoms, and reproductive goals.

Can fibroids affect IVF success?

Fibroids that distort the uterine cavity may reduce implantation rates and IVF success. A fertility specialist can determine whether treatment is recommended before IVF.

What is a myomectomy?

A myomectomy is a surgical procedure that removes fibroids while preserving the uterus. It is often the preferred treatment for women who wish to maintain fertility.