The majority of women have several masses of uterine tissue cell growths. The name for these growths are uterine fibroids. Most women do not even realize they exist and only become aware of them after they are found during a regular pelvic exam with their doctor. The risks of pregnancy when having uterine fibroids are not great, but there are occasions where they do cause problems for the baby and the mother.
A study by the National Institute of health found that 77 percent of women actually have these growths. However only 25 percent notice any symptoms at all. Pregnant women rarely see any difference. The ones who have serious problems are in the minority, but that is not to say there is no risk at all. Those that do cause issues are ones that have grown quite large, invading space.
The rise in estrogen levels during gestation is what sometimes causes the fibroids to enlarge. And the large ones are the trouble-makers. A large fibroid growing out on it’s stalk will turn and twist around itself at times, perhaps causing bleeding and pain. This would most likely be caused by the movement of the growing child in the womb. If they are not torn, there is no reason for concern.
A pregnant woman is naturally more cautious and careful of her condition. This causes the light spotting and pain caused to become a concern. A baby adjusting and moving for space against the fibroids in uterus will cause some minor pelvic pain. Once bumped or slightly torn from movement, light bleeding can occur. Light spotting is not uncommon, and has been known to usually stop on its own.
The uterine wall’s integrity is definitely changed by the presence of fibroids. Even though these growths are actually a part of the wall itself. This leaves less of a smooth area for the placenta to attach to. In an extreme case, pre-mature labor may develop. Sometimes a miscarriage will be the result, but this is quite rare. Most miscarriages are due to other factors. It still is important to realize they are not without any risks.
An extremely large one will change the shape of the uterine cavity. This forces the fetus into unnatural and cramped positions. The term for this is malpresentation, and can be dangerous to the unborn child. At times a growth will fill or obstruct the actual birth canal. When this happens, the only option for birth is a cesarean section. Although research shows this is very rarely the cause that a cesarean birth is needed.
It would seem as though the removal of the tissue would be the obvious solution. The fact is hemorrhaging is always the result when one is removed. They are part of the actual wall and share the blood supply. Because of this, they are never removed when a woman is pregnant. It is too risky, as the bleeding cannot be stopped. Postpartum bleeding has been known to happen when one is ripped or severed during the birth process.
So, even though these growths are a common occurrence in the female population, the problems they cause are very rare.The majority of women go through childbirth with no issues and are not even aware of their presence. The risks to the pregnant woman are to be noted and watch, but are also very unusual.
