Fibroids and Pregnancy: What Every Woman in Lagos Should Know

Fibroids are very common among women of reproductive age, especially in Black women. In Lagos clinics, many women discover they have fibroids either while trying to conceive or during a routine pregnancy scan. Understandably, this can raise fear and many questions. The good news is that many women with fibroids still have successful pregnancies.

What Are Fibroids?

Fibroids (also called uterine myomas) are non-cancerous growths that develop from the muscle of the uterus. They vary in size, number, and location. Some women have a single fibroid, while others may have multiple fibroids.

Can Fibroids Affect Pregnancy?

Fibroids do not always affect pregnancy, but their impact depends largely on:

• Size of the fibroid
• Number of fibroids
• Location (inside the cavity, within the muscle, or on the outer surface of the uterus)

Many women with fibroids conceive naturally and carry their pregnancies to term without complications.

Possible Effects of Fibroids in Pregnancy

While many pregnancies progress normally, fibroids may sometimes be associated with:

• Difficulty conceiving (especially submucous fibroids)
• Pain during pregnancy due to fibroid degeneration
• Bleeding in early pregnancy
• Miscarriage (in some cases)
• Preterm labour
• Abnormal fetal position
• Increased likelihood of caesarean delivery

It is important to note that not all women with fibroids will experience these problems.

Fibroids Discovered During Early Pregnancy

In early pregnancy, fibroids are often discovered during an ultrasound scan. Sometimes, the uterus may appear bulky, and fibroids can make it harder to clearly visualize the pregnancy in the very early weeks. In such cases, doctors may recommend:

• Repeat ultrasound after 1–2 weeks
• Close monitoring
• Avoiding unnecessary stress or heavy activity

Should Fibroids Be Removed Before Pregnancy?

Not all fibroids require surgery. Removal (myomectomy) may be considered if fibroids are:

• Inside the uterine cavity (submucous)
• Very large
• Causing repeated miscarriages or infertility
• Associated with severe symptoms like heavy bleeding or pain

Your doctor will always weigh the benefits and risks before recommending surgery.

Living With Fibroids During Pregnancy

If you are pregnant and have fibroids:

• Attend all antenatal appointments
• Report pain, bleeding, or unusual symptoms early
• Avoid self-medication
• Follow your doctor’s advice on activity and rest

With proper care, many women with fibroids deliver healthy babies.

When to See a Doctor in Lagos

You should seek medical evaluation if you:

• Are trying to conceive and have been diagnosed with fibroids
• Have heavy menstrual bleeding or pelvic pain
• Are pregnant and experiencing bleeding or severe abdominal pain
• Have been told you have a “bulky uterus” on scan

Final Reassurance

Fibroids are common, and pregnancy with fibroids is not a death sentence. Early diagnosis, proper ultrasound assessment, and good antenatal care make a big difference.

At Mascot Healthcare, we provide:

• Pelvic and pregnancy ultrasound scans
• Fibroid assessment and monitoring
• Antenatal care and early pregnancy evaluation
• Professional counseling for women trying to conceive

If you are in Akoka, Yaba, Shomolu, or other regions in Lagos, you can walk in or book an appointment for expert care.

Your health and peace of mind matter.