Uterine Fibroids and Fertility

The degree to which uterine fibroids impede fertility is the subject of ongoing research and study. Generally the most important factor attributed to fertility obstruction is the anatomical location of the uterine fibroid(s)(1).

How do uterine fibroids impede fertility?

 
• Uterus distortion subserosal fibroids developing outside the uterus can distort the uterine cavity or compress the fallopian tubes, preventing the sperm from reaching the eggs(1,2).
• Intramural fibroids developing in the cervical region can prevent the entry of the sperm into the uterus (2,3).
• Submucosal fibroids, developing in the lining of the uterus, may block the fallopian tube preventing ovum release and sperm from entering (2,3).
• Both intramural and submucosal fibroids may increase the size of the uterus cavity, forcing sperm to travel a greater distance (2,3).
• Uterine fibroids may also disturb implantation or gestation (1).

Uterine fibroids greater than 5 cm in size, or located near the ostia of the fallopian tubes, are more likely to cause fertility problems (4).

Read about uterine fibroids and pregnancy.

What are common symptoms of uterine fibroids? 

References:
1. Bajekal, N., TC Li, Human Reproduction Update, Vol.6, No.6 pp.614-620, 2000
2. Buttram, V.C. Jr and Reiter, R.C. 1981 Uterine leiomata:etiology, symptomatology and management. Fertil. Steril., 36, 433-445
3. Hunt, J.E. and Wallach, E.E. 1974: Uterine factor in infertility: an overview. Clin. Gynecol., 44-64.
4. Ubaldi, F., Tournaye, H., Camus, M. et al. 1995 Fertility after hysteroscopic myomectomy. Hum. Reprod. Update, 1, 81-90