Can Fibroid Uterus Cause Infertility? — Treatment Options and Fertility Preservation

Fibroids are found in 5–10% of women with infertility. The relationship between fibroids and fertility is complex — not every fibroid affects fertility, but some do. Here is what you need to know.

Which Fibroids Affect Fertility?

Submucosal fibroids (growing into the uterine cavity) have the strongest evidence for causing infertility and miscarriage — they distort the cavity, prevent implantation, and interfere with the embryo's blood supply. Intramural fibroids (in the uterine wall) may affect fertility if they are large or distort the cavity. Subserosal fibroids (on the outer surface) generally do not affect fertility unless very large.

How Fibroids Cause Pregnancy Problems

• Distortion of the uterine cavity preventing embryo implantation
• Altered uterine blood flow reducing implantation success
• Mechanical obstruction of the fallopian tube ostia
• Increased miscarriage risk (particularly submucosal fibroids)
• Complications during pregnancy: preterm labour, placenta previa, fetal malpresentation

Treatment and Fertility Preservation

For women wishing to preserve fertility: Myomectomy (surgical removal of the fibroid, preserving the uterus) has good evidence for improving fertility outcomes, particularly for submucosal fibroids. UFE can treat fibroids while preserving the uterus — however, the effect on future fertility is less well established than myomectomy. Many women have had successful pregnancies after UFE, but UFE is generally not the first-line choice for women who are actively trying to conceive.

The Importance of Personalised Assessment

Every case is different. The right treatment for fibroid-related infertility depends on fibroid location, size, number, the woman's age, and her overall fertility picture. Fibroid uterus treatment without hysterectomy options are available at Medanta Lucknow. Dr. Rohit Agarwal works alongside gynaecologists to provide a coordinated approach.