Pregnancy & Uterine Fibroids
Do uterine fibroids contribute to my inability to get pregnant?
There are many reasons for infertility as there are many steps from ovulation, to egg transit, to conception, to implantation, etc. Some of the many factors that can lead to infertility or miscarriage are uterine fibroids and adenomyosis. These conditions can be safely and effectively treated with uterine fibroid embolization (UFE).
Will I be able to get pregnant and have a child after uterine artery embolization?
Since there are many factors governing the ability to conceive and bring a child to term, we can never guarantee that this will happen. Factors such as age, hormone levels, ovarian reserve, fallopian tube patency among others all contribute to infertility. However, there are many people who are able to safely get pregnant and have babies after UFE.
Is UFE safe if I’m considering pregnancy?
There is no single study that answers this question. However, many studies have looked into the safety of pregnancy after this procedure as well as after myomectomy. After both procedures, patients are able to get pregnant and successfully deliver. There are studies that suggest when compared to patients who have not had any treatment for fibroids, those women who have undergone UFE do have improved outcomes with lower rates of complications.
After extensive review of the literature, particularly looking at myomectomy versus UFE in this population, we at NVP feel that it is safe and reasonable to offer both UFE and myomectomy as options. We continually review the literature for any studies that might help further answer this pressing question.
My OB/GYN physician told me to avoid UFE since it cuts off all blood to the uterus and ovaries.
Uterine fibroid embolization is a safe and effective means of treating all the fibroids in a woman’s uterus. UFE is a minimally invasive, same day outpatient procedure that does not involve an incision, hospital or general anesthesia. The procedure has been approved for several decades and is effective not only for the treatment of fibroids, but also adenomyosis while preserving blood supply to the uterus. This procedure has been shown to have no long term effect on ovarian reserve, and does not preclude other procedures such as hysterectomy or myomectomy should the need arise.
We at NVP will have an open and honest discussion about the risks and benefits of this procedure as well as surgery and will support our patients in their health care decisions. The most common reason why women do not undergo UFE is simply that they are not informed or offered it as an option for treatment prior to undergoing surgery.
Contact us today to discuss options for treating your fibroids!
