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Fibroid & Pregnancy

Fibroid & Pregnancy
Dr Anthony Siow
Medically Reviewed by Dr Anthony Siow
Gynaecologist & Single Incision Laparoscopic Surgeon
MBBS (S'pore), M Med (O&G) (S'pore), FRCOG (UK), MRANZCOG (Aust-NZ), FAMS (S'pore)
Hysterosalpingography
FIBROID & PREGNANCY
Do Fibroids Affect Fertility?
It is well accepted that Type 0, 1, 2 fibroids reduce fertility and increase risk of miscarriage, hence removal of such fibroids by transcervical resection of myoma is advised.
Type 6, 7 fibroids usually do not affect fertility, unless they are very large and distort the pelvic anatomy. Hence, such fibroids can be left alone if they are not > 6cm.
For large Type 3, 4, 5 fibroids, studies have shown a 21% reduction in pregnancy rates and a 24% increase in miscarriage rates. (Sunkara 2010)
Do Fibroids Increase Pregnancy Risks?

Most women with fibroids go through pregnancy without any issues. However, some women may find their fibroids grow during pregnancy causing pain due to a condition known as red degeneration. Some fibroids may prevent a vaginal delivery, so a caesarian section is needed. After delivery, most fibroids will shrink and return to their original size.

Some women with fibroids > 5cm may experience problems during pregnancy, which include:

  • miscarriage (1.2x more)
  • bleeding in second or third trimester
  • premature birth (1.5x more)
  • premature placenta separation (3.2x more)
  • stillbirth (1.7% more)

(Lee 2010, Stout 2010)

If you are pregnant or trying to conceive, speak with our experienced fibroid specialist to address any concerns you may have.
CONSULT WITH DR SIOW
Hysterosalpingography
Fibroid Surgery and Pregnancy

When fibroid surgery is done prior to getting pregnant, two issues need to be addressed.

  • The duration between surgery and future pregnancy
  • The risk of the fibroid surgical site tearing during pregnancy, called uterine rupture.

How long to wait

After fibroid surgery, it is advisable to wait at least 6 months before trying to get pregnant. One small study using MRI to assess the healing process after fibroid surgery, found that healing is satisfactory in 70% of cases at 3 months, 80% at 6 months and 95% at 12 months.

(Tsuji 2006)

Uterine rupture

This is the most serious complication to occur in pregnancy after fibroid surgery. Fortunately, the risk is very low, at 0.75%. It can happen in the early third trimester before labour, with significant risk to the baby. For women going into labour after fibroid surgery, there is >85% chance of a normal vaginal delivery with no uterine rupture.

(Claeys 2014)

Dr Anthony Siow
Medical Director
Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist
MBBS (S'pore), M Med (O&G) (S'pore)FRCOG (UK), MRANZCOG (Aust-NZ), FAMS (S'pore)
Dr Anthony Siow is an accomplished gynaecologist of over two decades with a special focus in uterine fibroid management. Prior to private practice, Dr Siow was the first Director of the Minimally Invasive Surgery Centre at KK Women's & Children's Hospital. He was also the first gynaecologist in Singapore to perform single incision laparoscopy for fibroid removal, and has successfully performed numerous procedures with minimal discomfort and downtime.
MORE ABOUT DR SIOW
Dr Anthony Siow
Fibroid Singapore
Seek Effective Fibroids Treatment With Minimal Downtime.
Whether medical treatments or advanced surgical options, our clinic is here to provide trusted and specialised care to restore your health and wellbeing.
Contact us
ASC Clinic for Women Pte Ltd Gleneagles Annexe #05-38, 6A Napier Road Singapore 258500
Email: fibroid@anthonysiow.com
Operating hours
Monday-Friday: 8:30am - 12:30pm, 2-5pm
Saturday: 8:30am - 12:30pm
Sunday: Closed