- Submucosal fibroids reduce implantation.
- Red degeneration causes pain but is not dangerous.
- Previous cavity-entering myomectomy usually means elective caesarean.
Effect on conception
Submucosal and cavity-distorting intramural fibroids reduce implantation rates. Removing them before IVF or after 12 months of trying naturally improves pregnancy rates. Subserosal fibroids rarely need treatment for fertility alone.
During pregnancy
Most fibroids stay stable in pregnancy but 20–30% grow. Red degeneration — an ischaemic event within a fibroid — causes severe localised pain in the second trimester and usually settles with rest and analgesia.
Mode of delivery
A previous myomectomy that entered the uterine cavity usually means elective caesarean. Fibroids alone rarely dictate mode of delivery unless they obstruct the birth canal.
Frequently asked questions
Can fibroids cause miscarriage?
Cavity-distorting fibroids can — subserosal fibroids do not.
Should I remove fibroids before IVF?
Yes if they distort the cavity, otherwise usually no.
Do fibroids shrink after birth?
Often, yes — postpartum shrinkage by 50%+ is common.
Could a doctor-led plan help you?
A 30-minute video consultation with Dr Berra Önsoy — reviewing your imaging and giving you a clear personalised plan for uterus-sparing fibroid surgery.
Request a video consultation