What does trouble getting pregnant feel like with uterine fibroids?

Fibroids are non-cancerous growths in the muscle of the uterus. They can be small or larger, and their position matters. A fibroid near the inside of the womb may affect the space where an embryo implants, while another may press on nearby organs. Some people have no symptoms beyond difficulty conceiving.

Possible associated experiences include heavier or longer periods, cramps, a feeling of pressure in the pelvis, frequent urination, constipation, or discomfort during sex. Symptoms vary, and a vaginal examination or scan is needed to understand whether fibroids are present and where they are located.

Book a gynaecology or fertility assessment if you are having difficulty conceiving or if bleeding and pressure affect daily life. Record period flow, pain, pelvic pressure, urinary changes, and how long you have been trying. Your clinician may use ultrasound and discuss whether the fibroid position could affect fertility.

Treatment depends on symptoms, size, position, age, and pregnancy plans. Options may include monitoring, medicines for bleeding or pain, or a procedure. Do not start or stop treatment without discussing how it may affect conception and pregnancy.

Arrange care for persistent difficulty conceiving, very heavy periods, worsening pelvic pain, or pressure that interferes with urination or bowel movements. Seek urgent help for severe sudden pelvic pain, fainting, or bleeding that makes you weak or dizzy.

Ask: Where are the fibroids and how many are there? Could their position affect conception or pregnancy? Which fertility-preserving options are suitable? What symptoms should prompt urgent help? When should we repeat imaging or review the plan?