Can You Get Pregnant with Fibroids?
Why This Matters
Being told you have fibroids can be frightening, especially if you're hoping to start or grow your family.
One of the first questions many women ask is:
"Can I still get pregnant?"
The good news is that for most women, the answer is yes.
Although some fibroids can make it more difficult to conceive, many women with fibroids become pregnant naturally and go on to have healthy pregnancies.
The key is understanding whether your fibroids are likely to affect your fertility and knowing when treatment might be helpful.
Quick Summary
Most women with fibroids can become pregnant naturally.
Many fibroids have little or no effect on fertility.
The position of the fibroid is often more important than its size.
Fibroids inside the uterine cavity are the most likely to affect conception.
Some women may benefit from treatment before trying for a baby.
Every fertility journey is unique.
The Short Answer
Yes.
Most women with fibroids are able to become pregnant.
In fact, many women don't even realise they have fibroids until they have an ultrasound during pregnancy.
Fibroids are extremely common, particularly during the reproductive years, yet the majority do not prevent pregnancy.
However, some fibroids can reduce fertility, depending on where they are located and how they affect the uterus.
When Do Fibroids Affect Pregnancy Chances?
Not all fibroids behave in the same way.
Your doctor will consider several factors.
Location
This is usually the most important factor.
Fibroids that grow into the cavity of the uterus are more likely to interfere with implantation.
Fibroids growing on the outside of the uterus often have little or no effect on fertility.
Size
Larger fibroids are more likely to cause problems than smaller ones, particularly if they change the shape of the uterus.
However, a small fibroid inside the uterine cavity may have a greater impact than a much larger fibroid growing on the outside.
Number
Some women have a single fibroid.
Others have several.
Having multiple fibroids may increase the chance that they affect the normal shape or function of the uterus.
How Can Fibroids Make Pregnancy More Difficult?
Depending on their location, fibroids may:
make it harder for an embryo to implant
reduce the available space inside the uterus
alter blood flow to the uterine lining
interfere with normal uterine contractions
occasionally block the entrance to a fallopian tube
affect the environment needed for early pregnancy
Many women experience none of these problems.
Does Having Fibroids Mean I'm Infertile?
No.
This is one of the biggest myths surrounding fibroids.
Having fibroids does not automatically mean you are infertile.
Many women:
conceive naturally
have uncomplicated pregnancies
deliver healthy babies
Even when fibroids contribute to fertility problems, treatments are available that may improve the chances of pregnancy.
Should I Try Naturally First?
In many cases, yes.
If your fibroids are not causing symptoms and are not thought to be affecting the inside of the uterus, your doctor may recommend trying to conceive naturally before considering treatment.
The right approach depends on:
your age
how long you've been trying
where the fibroids are located
any other fertility issues
Your healthcare team will discuss what is most appropriate for your individual circumstances.
What If I've Been Trying for a Long Time?
If you've been trying to conceive for several months without success, it's important not to assume that fibroids are the only explanation.
Fertility is complex.
Other factors may include:
ovulation problems
endometriosis
blocked fallopian tubes
male factor infertility
age-related changes in egg quality
unexplained infertility
A full fertility assessment looks at both partners and considers all possible causes.
Can Fibroids Affect IVF?
Sometimes.
Fibroids that change the shape of the uterine cavity may reduce the chances of implantation during IVF.
If this is the case, your fertility specialist may recommend removing the fibroid before treatment.
Many women with fibroids still have successful IVF pregnancies without surgery.
What If I Become Pregnant?
Most women with fibroids have healthy pregnancies.
Some fibroids may increase the chance of complications such as:
pain as the fibroid changes during pregnancy
miscarriage
preterm birth
breech presentation
Caesarean birth
Your maternity team may monitor your pregnancy more closely depending on the size and location of your fibroids.
When Should I Speak to My Doctor?
Arrange an appointment if:
you've been trying to conceive for 12 months (or 6 months if you're over 35)
you have known fibroids and are concerned about fertility
you have very heavy or painful periods
you've experienced repeated miscarriages
you're planning IVF
Your doctor can advise whether further investigations or treatment are appropriate.
What Does This Mean for You?
Receiving a diagnosis of fibroids doesn't mean you have to give up hope of becoming pregnant.
For most women, fibroids are simply one part of their overall health picture.
Some women will never need treatment.
Others may benefit from medication or surgery before trying to conceive.
The most important thing is understanding your own fibroids, rather than comparing yourself with someone else's experience.
Every woman's fertility journey is different, and having fibroids does not define your chances of becoming a mother.
You Are Not Alone
If you're reading this because you're worried that fibroids have taken away your chance of having a baby, you're not alone.
Many women experience that same fear after hearing the word "fibroids."
While it's completely understandable to feel anxious, it's important to remember that countless women with fibroids become mothers every year—some naturally, some with a little extra help.
Try not to let your diagnosis convince you that your future has already been decided. Your healthcare team can help you understand your individual situation and the options available to you.
Key Takeaways
Most women with fibroids can become pregnant.
Many fibroids do not affect fertility.
Location is usually more important than size.
Fibroids inside the uterus are most likely to affect conception.
Fibroids do not automatically mean infertility.
Many women have healthy pregnancies with fibroids.
Treatment decisions should always be based on your individual circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get pregnant naturally if I have fibroids?
Yes. Many women with fibroids conceive naturally without treatment.
Do all fibroids reduce fertility?
No. Many fibroids have little or no effect on the ability to become pregnant.
Which fibroids are most likely to affect pregnancy?
Fibroids that distort the inside of the uterus (submucosal fibroids) are most likely to interfere with implantation and increase miscarriage risk.
Should I have my fibroids removed before trying for a baby?
Not always. Treatment depends on the size, location and symptoms of your fibroids, as well as your fertility history.
Can I have a healthy baby if I have fibroids?
Yes. Most women with fibroids have healthy pregnancies and healthy babies.
References
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). Heavy menstrual bleeding: assessment and management (NG88).
Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG). Fibroids: Information for You.
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). Uterine Fibroids.
European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE). Fertility guidance and scientific literature on uterine fibroids.
Stewart EA, et al. Uterine Fibroids. Nature Reviews Disease Primers.
Bulun SE. Uterine Fibroids. New England Journal of Medicine.