Fibroids are common benign tumors in the female reproductive system and in some cases can make pregnancy difficult. Especially for women undergoing IVF treatment, the presence of fibroids can affect embryo implantation and the pregnancy process. However, it should be noted that fibroids do not always negatively affect IVF success.
What are fibroids and why are they important in IVF treatment?
Fibroids are tumors that develop in the muscle tissue of the uterus and are usually benign. They can vary in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters and can develop in different areas. While most fibroids are asymptomatic, some can cause problems such as pain, irregular menstruation, risk of miscarriage and infertility.
The location and size of fibroids are of great importance in IVF treatment. Submucosal fibroids can make it difficult for the embryo to attach because they are located in the lining of the uterus. Intramural fibroids can grow on the uterine wall, disrupt the internal structure of the uterus and affect blood flow. Subserosal fibroids are located on the outside of the uterus and usually do not directly affect the pregnancy process.
The effect of fibroids on IVF treatment varies from person to person. While small and asymptomatic fibroids do not prevent the treatment process, large fibroids that disrupt the internal structure of the uterus can reduce the chance of pregnancy. Therefore, it is of great importance to evaluate fibroids before starting IVF treatment.
How do fibroids affect the success of IVF treatment?
Fibroids that change the internal structure of the uterus can make it difficult for the embryo to attach in a healthy way. In particular, fibroids that press on the inner lining of the uterus can reduce the retention rates after embryo transfer.
The possible effects of fibroids on IVF success are as follows:
- It can prevent the embryo from implanting by disrupting the inner lining of the uterus.
- It can reduce blood flow by pressing on the uterus and negatively affect the development of the embryo.
- It may increase the risk of miscarriage by increasing uterine contractions.
- If fibroids are not treated before IVF, they can lead to pregnancy complications.
Some studies show that the success rate of IVF treatment is reduced by 30-40%, especially in women with large fibroids. However, small fibroids usually do not seriously affect the chances of pregnancy.
Do fibroids cause infertility?
Fibroids do not always cause infertility, but in some cases they can have a negative impact on fertility. In particular, submucosal fibroids can make it difficult for the embryo to attach and reduce the chance of pregnancy because they grow in the inner layer of the uterus. Large intramural fibroids located in the uterine wall can disrupt the internal structure of the uterus, preventing a favorable environment for the embryo to develop.
Fibroids can also put pressure on the fallopian tubes, making it difficult for sperm to reach the egg. Partial or complete blockage of the fallopian tubes can reduce the chance of pregnancy by making natural fertilization difficult. This requires a detailed evaluation before starting IVF treatment.
In addition, uterine contractions caused by fibroids can prevent the embryo from attaching to the uterus and increase the risk of miscarriage. Some fibroids can cause hormonal imbalances, disrupting the ovulation process and causing irregular menstrual cycles.
Treatment Methods for Fibroids and Preparation for IVF
When choosing a treatment method for fibroids, the extent to which the fibroid changes the internal structure of the uterus and whether it prevents the embryo from attaching should be evaluated in detail.
One of the treatment options, drug therapy, can help shrink fibroids by using hormone-based drugs. However, this method usually does not completely remove fibroids and the effects may not be permanent. Hysteroscopic myomectomy is a minimally invasive procedure used to remove submucosal fibroids that are pressing on the lining of the uterus and can have positive effects on fertility. Laparoscopic myomectomy is preferred to remove fibroids that are located in the uterine wall and make it difficult for the embryo to attach. For patients with larger fibroids and multiple fibroids, open myomectomy can be performed.
Women who have had fibroid surgery are advised to wait at least 3-6 months for the uterine tissue to heal. This process allows the uterus to become suitable for pregnancy and helps to increase the success of IVF treatment.
Can Women with Fibroids Get Pregnant with IVF?
Many women with fibroids can have a successful pregnancy with IVF treatment. However, since the effects of fibroids on pregnancy vary from person to person, it is important to undergo a doctor's control before starting the IVF process.
The things to be considered during the IVF process are as follows:
- To undergo a doctor's check-up to evaluate the effect of fibroids on pregnancy.
- Determining whether the intrauterine structure is suitable for embryo transfer.
- Supporting uterine health by paying attention to nutrition and lifestyle.
- Preparing the uterus for pregnancy with necessary hormone treatments.
If fibroids have a negative impact on the success of IVF treatment, it is not recommended to start the process without treatment. Proper management of fibroids is the key to a healthy pregnancy.
