In this article:
1. Uterine Fibroids (Leiomyomas)
What are they?Fibroids are tumours that are not malignant and are made up of muscle and fibrous tissue. They grow inside or around your uterus and are very prevalent, especially in women who can have children.
How do they affect pregnancy?
Fibroids can block the fallopian tubes, which makes it harder for sperm to encounter the egg. This depends on their size, position, and number.
- Change the shape of the lining of your uterus, which makes implantation hard.
- Raise the chances of having a miscarriage or going into labour early
- Make you bleed a lot, which could indirectly affect ovulation
You don't always need to treat fibroids. But if your doctor feels they are affecting your ability to get pregnant, they may prescribe treatments including drugs, surgery (myomectomy), or techniques that don't require surgery.
2. Uterine Polyps (Endometrial Polyps)
What are they?Polyps are delicate, finger-like bumps that grow on the inside of your uterus. They are made of endometrial tissue, which is the same tissue that comes out after your period.
How do they affect pregnancy?
Polyps can:
- Stop a fertilised egg from sticking to the uterus
- Make your periods irregular or heavy, which might change your cycle
- Sometimes raise the chance of having a miscarriage
Ultrasound or hysteroscopy are the most common ways to find polyps. Polypectomy is a straightforward surgery that can be done to remove them if they are determined to be hurting your ability to get pregnant.
3. Adenomyosis
What is it?Adenomyosis happens when the lining of your uterus develops into the muscle wall of your uterus. It is not the same as endometriosis, even though both involve endometrial tissue that is in the wrong place.
How does it affect pregnancy?
Adenomyosis can:
- Disrupt the uterine environment needed for implantation
- Cause chronic inflammation, which may lower fertility
- Lead to miscarriage or complications during pregnancy
It might be hard to deal with adenomyosis, but there are treatments available, such as hormonal therapy, pain relief, and in some cases, surgery to remove the damaged tissue. If you can't become pregnant naturally, your doctor may also advise IVF.
4. Intrauterine Adhesions (Asherman’s Syndrome)
What is it?This condition occurs when scar tissue forms inside the uterus, usually after surgery like a dilation and curettage (D&C), or following an infection.
How does it affect pregnancy?
Adhesions can:
- Block parts of your uterus or cervix
- Prevent the lining of the uterus from thickening properly
- Increase the risk of miscarriage or infertility
Adhesions are typically diagnosed through hysteroscopy. Treatment usually involves surgical removal of the scar tissue and hormone therapy to help your uterus heal and function normally again.
5. Endometriosis (When It Involves the Uterus)
What is it?While endometriosis typically affects areas outside the uterus, in some cases, it may involve the uterine surface or even co-exist with adenomyosis. It happens when tissue similar to the uterus lining grows in places it shouldn’t.
How does it affect pregnancy?
It can:
- Interfere with ovulation
- Affect egg quality
- Distort pelvic organs or block fallopian tubes
- Create an environment of inflammation that’s not ideal for conception
Endometriosis treatment includes pain management, hormone therapy, surgery, and assisted reproductive technologies like IVF. Early diagnosis can improve your chances of getting pregnant.
How Are These Growths Diagnosed?
If you’re trying to conceive and have symptoms like heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, irregular periods, or no periods at all, your doctor may recommend tests such as:- Ultrasound
- Hysteroscopy
- MRI
- Sonohysterogram
Treatment Options to Improve Your Fertility
Once a uterine growth is identified, treatment depends on its type, size, and impact on your fertility. Common options include:- Medications to shrink fibroids or control symptoms
- Surgical removal of fibroids or polyps (laparoscopy or hysteroscopy)
- Hormonal treatments to manage adenomyosis or endometriosis
- Assisted reproductive technologies like IVF, especially when natural methods aren’t successful
When Should You See a Doctor?
You should consider seeing a doctor if:- You’ve been trying to get pregnant for over a year without success (or 6 months if you're over 35)
- You have painful or heavy periods
- Your cycle is irregular or missing
- You’ve had previous pregnancy losses
Whether you’re trying to conceive or navigating IVF, you’re not alone. Join our supportive communities to connect, share, and find strength with others on the same journey.
FAQs on Types Of Uterus Growths That May Affect Your Pregnancy Chances
- Can uterine fibroids go away on their own?
Some small fibroids may shrink on their own, especially after menopause. But if you're trying to get pregnant and the fibroids are affecting your fertility, medical or surgical treatment may be needed. - Is it possible to get pregnant with a uterine polyp?
Yes, but depending on the size and location of the polyp, it may reduce your chances. Removing the polyp can improve the chances of conception. - How soon can I try for pregnancy after fibroid or polyp removal?
In most cases, you can try for pregnancy 2 to 3 months after surgery, depending on how quickly your uterus heals. Your doctor will guide you based on your individual case.
