Fibroids

Fibroids are non-cancerous growths in or around the uterus. Many do not affect fertility, but their size or location can sometimes make conception or pregnancy more difficult.

Fibroids are common, non-cancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus. While some women with fibroids show no symptoms, others may experience symptoms that affect their comfort, menstrual health or sometimes fertility.

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The team of specialists at Child Fertility provide world-class diagnosis and care to help women in Saudi Arabia manage fibroids, relieve symptoms, and support your fertility journey.

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On this page

What are fibroids and how do they affect fertility?What causes fibroids?Symptoms of fibroids Do fibroids affect fertility and pregnancy?Treatment options for fibroids FAQ

What are fibroids and how do they affect fertility?

Fibroids are growths made of muscles and fibrous tissue that form in or around the womb. They can vary in size, number, and location, and their effects can differ from woman to woman.

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Common types include:

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Intramural fibroids

Grow within the muscle wall of the uterus.

Submucosal fibroids

Develop in the inner surface of the uterus under the lining, and may grow into the cavity of the womb.

Subserosal fibroids

Form on the outer surface of the uterus, and into the pelvis.

Their position within the uterus often determines whether they cause symptoms or affect fertility.

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What causes fibroids?

Fibroids are quite common, affecting many women, and are most often diagnosed in women between the ages of 30 and 50. Research suggests several factors may be associated with a higher likelihood of developing fibroids, including:

Increasing age during reproductive years
A family history of fibroids
Higher body weight
Ethnicity, with fibroids being more common in women of African heritage

Hormones, particularly oestrogen, appear to influence fibroid growth, which is why fibroids tend to develop during reproductive years and often shrink after menopause.

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Symptoms of fibroids

Many women live with fibroids without knowing it. Around 1 in 3 women with fibroids may notice common signs such as:

Heavy or painful periods
Abdominal pain
Lower back pain
A frequent need to urinate
Pain during intercourse
Constipation

If you notice any of these symptoms, early assessment can make a significant difference. Identifying fibroids allows our team to design a personalised plan that supports your health and goals.

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Do fibroids affect fertility and pregnancy?

For many women, uterine fibroids do not affect fertility. However, depending on their size and location, some fibroids can influence conception or pregnancy. For example, fibroids that grow inside the uterine cavity or significantly change its shape may interfere with implantation, or increase the risk of miscarriage.

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The reassuring news is that many women with fibroids conceive successfully, either naturally or with appropriate medical support. The specialists at Child Fertility take the time to understand your individual situation and recommend care that supports your chances of conception while prioritising your overall health and comfort.

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To learn more about female fertility and how to support your reproductive health, visit our Female Fertility page.

Treatment options for fibroids

Not all fibroids need treatment. If they are small and cause few or no problems, careful monitoring may be all that is needed.

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When treatment is recommended, options may include:

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Medicines

For women who experience heavy bleeding or discomfort, several medicines can help manage symptoms. Hormone-releasing devices or tablets can reduce bleeding and period pain, while anti-inflammatory medicines can ease cramps. In some cases, short-term medications may also help shrink fibroids before other treatments.

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Surgery

If symptoms are significant, surgery may be recommended. In women wishing to preserve fertility, a procedure called myomectomy removes the fibroids while keeping the uterus intact. Myomectomy can be performed through the neck of the womb (the cervix) using a telescope for submucosal fibroids, or abdominally using keyhole laparoscopic or open surgery for intramural or subserosal fibroids. In more severe cases, removal of the uterus (hysterectomy) may be discussed when future pregnancy is not desired.

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Minimally invasive procedures

For some women, uterine artery embolisation, which reduces the blood supply to fibroids may relieve symptoms. However, the effects of this treatment on future fertility are still being studied, so it is usually considered carefully in women hoping to conceive.

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Frequently asked questions

Can fibroids cause infertility?

Fibroids don’t always affect fertility. However, fibroids that distort the uterine cavity or are very large may interfere with implantation or increase the risk of miscarriage. Many women with fibroids conceive successfully with or without treatment.

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Can you get pregnant with fibroids?

Yes, many women with fibroids can conceive naturally. Success depends on the size, number, and location of fibroids. Treatment or fertility support such as IVF may be recommended if fibroids affect implantation.

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Do fibroids need to be removed to get pregnant?

Not always. Fibroid removal is usually recommended if the fibroids:

Distort the uterine cavity
Cause significant symptoms (bleeding, pain)
Are associated with prior fertility challenges

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Are fibroids dangerous during pregnancy?

Most fibroids are not dangerous during pregnancy, but they may increase the risk of certain complications, such as pain, preterm labor, or interference with the baby’s position. Most women with fibroids have successful pregnancies under specialist care.

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Does IVF work with fibroids?

IVF can be effective for women with fibroids, though success rates depend on the type, size, and location of the fibroids. For the best outcomes:

Submucosal fibroids are often removed before embryo transfer
Intramural or subserosal fibroids are assessed individually

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Take the first step

If you are concerned about fibroids, or are experiencing some of the symptoms, we can help. Our team is ready to provide compassionate guidance, personalised advice, and a care plan that respects your body and priorities.

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