Why do uterine fibroids grow larger during pregnancy? Does pregnancy cause uterine fibroids to grow larger?

Why do uterine fibroids grow larger during pregnancy? Does pregnancy cause uterine fibroids to grow larger?

Uterine fibroids are a common gynecological tumor, and during pregnancy, some women will find that their uterine fibroids will increase in size. So why do uterine fibroids grow larger during pregnancy? Does pregnancy cause uterine fibroids to grow larger? This article will explore this issue.

1. Why do uterine fibroids grow during pregnancy?

There are many reasons why uterine fibroids may grow during pregnancy. During pregnancy, hormone levels in the body change significantly, especially estrogen levels. This increase in hormones can stimulate the growth of uterine fibroids, causing them to grow larger.

The endometrium thickens during pregnancy, and the location and distribution of uterine fibroids can limit the expansion of the endometrium, thereby limiting the space required for fetal growth and development, and ultimately leading to the enlargement of uterine fibroids.

Blood flow to the uterus also increases during pregnancy, which may provide more nutrients and oxygen to the fibroids, thereby promoting their growth.

2. The impact of uterine fibroids during pregnancy

The growth of uterine fibroids during pregnancy may have some effects on the woman and the fetus. Larger uterine fibroids may cause the uterus to deform, which increases the risk of complications such as premature birth, premature rupture of membranes, and placental abruption.

The growth of uterine fibroids may increase the risk of perinatal bleeding. The location and size of uterine fibroids may hinder the normal blood circulation of the placenta and uterus, affecting the growth and development of the fetus.

The growth of uterine fibroids may also cause uncomfortable symptoms such as abdominal pain and back pain during pregnancy, affecting the comfort of pregnant women.

3. Will pregnancy increase the size of uterine fibroids?

Although it is common for uterine fibroids to grow during pregnancy, not all uterine fibroids will grow with pregnancy. According to research, about one-third of women will find that their uterine fibroids grow during pregnancy, but a considerable number of women will find that the size of their uterine fibroids does not change, and some women will even find that their uterine fibroids shrink during pregnancy.

Therefore, whether pregnancy will cause uterine fibroids to grow needs to be analyzed on a case-by-case basis. Each woman's physical condition and the characteristics of her uterine fibroids may be different.

The increase in size of uterine fibroids during pregnancy is mainly due to factors such as changes in hormone levels, thickening of the endometrium, and increased blood flow. However, not all uterine fibroids will increase in size during pregnancy, and some may even shrink. The increase in size of uterine fibroids during pregnancy may have a certain impact on women and fetuses, and requires attention and timely treatment. Therefore, gynecological experts recommend that before planning a pregnancy, you should consult a doctor and evaluate the characteristics and location of uterine fibroids to better understand their impact on pregnancy and develop an appropriate treatment plan.