Fibroids are the most common benign tumoral formations seen in the female reproductive system.
These smooth muscle-origin masses that develop in or around the uterine wall are generally harmless.
However, in some cases, they may cause complaints such as pressure in the uterus, bleeding, pain, or infertility.
Fibroids tend to grow especially under the effect of the estrogen hormone.
Therefore, while they are more frequently seen in women of reproductive age, they tend to shrink during menopause.
The rate of fibroids transforming into cancer is extremely low (0.1–0.5%).
As FertiJin IVF Center, with our experienced gynecologist team in Şişli, Istanbul,
we comprehensively evaluate the diagnosis, treatment, and effects of fibroids on pregnancy.
What Is a Fibroid?
Uterine fibroid is a well-defined mass that occurs as a result of the abnormal proliferation of smooth muscle cells.
It can develop in different locations:
- Intramural fibroid: In the uterine muscle layer
- Subserosal fibroid: On the outer surface of the uterus
- Submucosal fibroid: In the inner layer of the uterus (type growing toward the cavity)
Each of these types may produce different symptoms.
Fibroids mostly occur as a result of genetic factors and hormonal imbalances.
With the decrease in estrogen levels after menopause, fibroids usually shrink.
What Are the Symptoms of Fibroids?
Most fibroids do not cause symptoms and are noticed incidentally during a gynecological examination.
However, fibroids that grow or affect the inner part of the uterus due to their location may cause the following symptoms:
- Prolonged or heavy menstrual bleeding
- Menstrual irregularity
- Pelvic pain and a feeling of pressure in the abdomen
- Bloating, gas, and constipation
- Frequent urination or urinary incontinence
- Lower back and groin pain
- Miscarriage or risk of preterm birth
If even one of these symptoms is present, it is recommended to have a gynecological examination without delay.
Early diagnosis allows fibroids to be controlled before they grow.
Why Do Fibroids Occur in the Uterus?
Hormonal and genetic factors are effective in the development of fibroids.
Main causes:
- High estrogen level: The main hormone that triggers the growth of fibroids.
- Genetic predisposition: It is more common in women with a family history of fibroids.
- Obesity and insulin resistance: May increase the risk of fibroid formation by affecting hormonal balance.
- Reproductive period: It is more common in women of reproductive age.
- Not having given birth: It is one of the factors that increase the likelihood of fibroids.
Treatment of Fibroids
Not every fibroid requires treatment.
Asymptomatic and small fibroids are usually only monitored.
However, if fibroids are growing or causing complaints such as pain, bleeding, or infertility, a treatment plan is made.
Medical Treatment (Non-Surgical Fibroid Treatment)
- Slows the growth of the fibroid by regulating hormone levels.
- Reduces menstrual bleeding and relieves pain.
Surgical Treatment
- Myomectomy: The operation in which only the fibroid is removed and the uterus is preserved.
- Laparoscopic (closed) fibroid surgery: Performed with small incisions, recovery time is short.
- Hysterectomy: Complete removal of the uterus may be required in very large or recurrent fibroids.
At FertiJin, a personalized treatment plan is created according to each patient’s age, desire for children, and fibroid structure.
Do Fibroids Prevent Pregnancy?
Whether fibroids affect pregnancy depends on their size, number, and location.
Small fibroids usually do not prevent pregnancy.
However, fibroids that put pressure on the uterine cavity (endometrium):
- May prevent the embryo from attaching to the uterus,
- May increase the risk of pregnancy loss (miscarriage),
- May increase the likelihood of preterm birth.
For this reason, expectant mothers diagnosed with fibroids should undergo a detailed evaluation, especially before IVF treatment.
At FertiJin IVF Center, the effect of fibroids on the pregnancy process is examined with ultrasound and advanced imaging methods.
Are Uterine Fibroids Dangerous?
Most fibroids are benign and the rate of transformation into cancer is quite low.
However, fibroids that grow uncontrollably or show rapid volume increase should be monitored carefully.
Such fibroids:
- May cause severe bleeding,
- Pelvic pain,
- Pressure on the urinary tract or intestines.
With early diagnosis and regular follow-ups, these risks can be minimized.
Istanbul Fibroid Treatment – FertiJin IVF Center
At FertiJin, fibroid diseases are evaluated by experienced gynecology specialists using
modern ultrasound systems and laparoscopic surgical methods.
The treatment plan is personalized according to the patient’s age, fertility desire, and general health condition.