Most fibroids in pregnancy cause no serious complications, but their location, size, and the pregnancy's hormonal environment all determine the level of risk a pregnant woman faces. Ultrasound monitoring at clinics such as Merrion Fetal Health in Dublin allows clinicians to track fibroid behaviour throughout gestation and provide personalised reassurance. Because rising oestrogen levels during pregnancy can cause some fibroids to grow, early identification and ongoing surveillance are key steps in managing potential complications such as pain, preterm labour, or placental issues. Women with known or suspected fibroids are encouraged to discuss specialist scanning options with their maternity care provider as early as possible.
- Fibroids in pregnancy is a key topic addressed in the FAQ section of Merrion Fetal Health's patient education content.
- Early pregnancy scans at Merrion Fetal Health are offered from 6 to 11 weeks of gestation.
- The Nuchal Translucency scan is available between 12 and 14 weeks of pregnancy.
- The Anatomy Survey scan is performed between 18 and 22 weeks of gestation.
- Gender scans are offered from 19 weeks onwards at the Merrion Fetal Health clinic.
- Growth and Well Being scans are available from 22 weeks onwards, and Post Dates and Liquor assessments begin at 40 weeks.
Fibroids in pregnancy - what you need to know
Fibroids in Pregnancy FAQs
What are fibroids?
Fibroids are non-cancerous (benign) growths which can either develop inside or outside the walls of the uterus (womb). They tend to vary in size and quantity, sometimes a woman may have one or more fibroids at the same time. As many women don’t experience symptoms, it is impossible to give statistics and how many women suffer from fibroids, but it is possible according to the data available, that from 50% to 80% of women have had fibroids.
As we get older, we have a higher chance of getting fibroids, up until the menopause. The reason for this is that fibroids are linked to hormones, and develop from puberty to menopause.
Fibroids usually develop very slowly over the years. Although a definitive cause hasn’t been entirely discovered, fibroid growth has been linked to the oestrogen and progesterone hormones, which can trigger their growth and development. When we reach our menopause, as our hormones change, then normally fibroids will start to shrink.
What are the different types of fibroids?
There are four different types of fibroids, which are named depending on their location.
Outside the womb: Subserous fibroids develop from the womb’s outside wall and grow into the space in the pelvis
On the muscle wall of the womb: Intramural fibroids grow in the womb’s muscle wall
The inner wall of the womb growing into the space inside the womb: Submucous fibroids grow from the womb’s inner wall into the space inside the womb
Stalk type fibroids: Both subserous and submucous fibroids can develop on a stalk. When this occurs they are called pedunculated fibroids.
What are the symptoms of fibroids?
Very often fibroids can exist without any obvious symptoms. As they become larger, then symptoms may be noted, these can include:
– Swelling in the abdomen (tummy)
– A feeling of pressure or pain in the pelvis
– Heavy menstruation (periods) that can last longer than normal – this may also lead to anaemia, causing dizziness, fatigue and shortness of breath
– A large fibroid can press on the bowel or bladder. So if you feel you need to urinate more frequently, this could be a symptom. Or if it is pressing on the bowel, you may suffer from constipation.
– Fibroids can be a cause for infertility.
If you are currently experiencing any of these symptoms, you should see your doctor.
How are fibroids diagnosed?
When you go to your doctor, he/she will ask about your symptoms and your medical history. The doctor will examine the lower abdomen and will also carry out a vaginal examination. This investigation is carried out with gloves and lubricant, as your doctor gently feels for anything in the womb or cervix. While doing this, the doctor will place their other hand on the lower part of the abdomen, to apply some pressure.
In the case that your doctor believes you may have fibroids, you may be sent for further tests.
An ultrasound scan: a scan is carried out that looks at the womb from the outside, via the lower abdomen. Additionally, you may be scanned using the device that is inserted into the vagina, to investigate the area from the inside. Although this may feel a little uncomfortable, it shouldn’t be painful.
You may have a blood test to find out if you have anaemia.
A hysteroscopy is an examination to look inside the womb. A hysteroscope is used to do this. This is a narrow tube-like telescope, which has a camera. During a hysteroscopy, the doctor can also take a small sample of tissue (biopsy) at this time. If small fibroids are present, it may be possible to remove them during a hysteroscopy. The procedure is carried out either with a local anaesthetic or a short general anaesthetic may be administered.
MRI – a magnetic resonance imaging scan can show your fibroids in greater detail, and may be carried out before surgery.
Laparoscopy – a small incision is made in the abdomen, to insert a small camera, which can then show the surgeon how the outside of the womb and inside of the abdomen look. During a laparoscopy, small tissue samples can be taken (biopsies).
Fibroids can also be diagnosed during a gynaecological examination, which you may undergo for a different medical reason, or alternatively if you are examined because you are having trouble conceiving.
What are the potential issues & treatment of fibroids in pregnancy?
In some cases fibroids which are present in pregnancy can lead to problems, such as difficulties during labour, or baby’s development. Fibroids that cause abdominal pain during pregnancy, may carry a risk of premature labour. If the fibroids are large and are blocking the vagina, a caesarean section may be required. In more rare cases, fibroids can lead to miscarriage. Larger fibroids may lead to infertility, and this also depends on where they are positioned.
Painful fibroids in pregnancy are frequently treated with bed rest, ice-packs, and if necessary medication. In general, symptoms subside in a few days. If your doctor needs to prescribe medication, he/she will choose the safest option available for you.
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DISCLAIMER
All articles on the blog and website are intended as information only. Please do not consider any of the information provided here as a substitute for medical advice. At all times seek medical advice directly with your own doctor and medical team.
ANNOUNCEMENT
This website was formerly Merrion Fetal Health. The clinic has undergone a rebrand and is now known as Merrion Ultrasound.
What are fibroids in pregnancy?
Fibroids are non-cancerous growths that can develop in or around the uterus and may be present during pregnancy. They are monitored during pregnancy because of the potential complications they can cause for both mother and baby.
How are fibroids detected during pregnancy?
Fibroids are typically identified through ultrasound scans performed during pregnancy. Clinics such as Merrion Fetal Health offer detailed pregnancy scans that can detect and monitor fibroids at various stages.
Which pregnancy scans are used to monitor fibroids?
Several types of ultrasound scans can be used to monitor fibroids during pregnancy, including early pregnancy scans at 6–11 weeks, nuchal translucency scans at 12–14 weeks, and anatomy survey scans at 18–22 weeks.
Can fibroids affect the outcome of a pregnancy?
Fibroids can pose risks during pregnancy and are monitored closely by healthcare providers. Regular ultrasound scanning helps clinicians track fibroid size and position to assess any impact on the developing baby.
Where can pregnant women get fibroids monitored by ultrasound in Dublin?
Merrion Fetal Health is a specialist pregnancy scanning clinic in Dublin that offers a range of ultrasound scans suitable for monitoring fibroids throughout pregnancy.
What types of scans are available for monitoring a pregnancy alongside fibroids?
Merrion Fetal Health offers scans including early pregnancy scans from 6 weeks, anatomy surveys from 18–22 weeks, growth and well-being scans from 22 weeks onwards, and post-dates scans from 40 weeks onwards.