Uterine Fibroids and Infertility

Our providers have expertise in evaluating and treating women for uterine fibroids associated with infertility. They have given several invited lectures detailing the current research and treatment options (medical and surgical) regarding uterine fibroids.

Uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyoma, are noncancerous growths that develop in or on the uterus.

Uterine fibroids develop from the smooth muscle cells of the uterus and can grow inside or outside of your uterus. Fibroids can interfere with pregnancy in many ways. The ones that grow on the inside wall of your uterus can cause changes in the endometrial tissue, making it difficult for a fertilized egg to attach to the uterine wall. Fibroids that develop outside your uterus can interfere with pregnancy by compressing or blocking the fallopian tubes, thereby preventing the sperm from reaching the egg.

How fibroids are diagnosed

Your medical history and a pelvic exam are necessary in diagnosing fibroids. Listed below are tests that may also be used to confirm the diagnosis:

• Ultrasound – a scan that uses high frequency sound waves to detect fibroids in and around the uterus and cervix.
• Hysterosalpingogram – a procedure that uses x-rays and a special dye to detect fibroids on the inside of your uterus and to see if your fallopian tubes are open.
• Sonohysterography (Saline Sonography) – a procedure performed in our office where a small amount of fluid is placed into the uterine cavity while performing a transvaginal ultrasound. This will provide information regarding the uterus and uterine cavity.
• Hysteroscopy – a procedure in which your doctor uses a narrow fiberoptic telescope inserted into the uterine cavity to look for and sometimes remove fibroids.
• Laparoscopy – a procedure in which your doctor uses a narrow fiberoptic telescope inserted through an incision near your navel to look for and sometimes remove fibroids.