If you're planning to start a family, you'll likely wonder how common health conditions could affect your journey. Uterine fibroids are incredibly common, but many people don't realize how they impact your ability to conceive. Understanding these growths is an important part of planning for a healthy future.
At Desert Star Institute for Family Planning in Phoenix, Arizona, Dr. DeShawn Taylor, MD, FACOG, provides compassionate, expert gynecology care to help you understand your body. We work closely with you to address reproductive health concerns and guide you through your family planning options.
Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths that develop in or on the muscular walls of the uterus. According to Human Reproduction (2026), these growths occur in 70-80 percent of women during their reproductive years. This means they are a very widespread reproductive health concern.
While they're very common, many people don't experience any symptoms at all. However, depending on their size, number, and location, they can sometimes cause heavy periods, pelvic pain, or pressure. These symptoms can sometimes make daily life uncomfortable.
Yes, many people with fibroids get pregnant naturally and have completely healthy pregnancies. However, the location of the fibroids plays a major role in whether they'll interfere with your fertility. Some types are harmless, while others require medical attention.
Submucosal fibroids, which grow just under the inner lining of the uterus, are the most likely to cause issues because they distort the uterine cavity. The Cleveland Clinic (2026) notes that these specific fibroids can increase the risk of miscarriage by 60 percent or more. This happens because they make it much harder for a fertilized egg to implant properly.
If fibroids are affecting your ability to conceive, you don't have to lose hope. There's a common myth that a hysterectomy, which removes the uterus entirely, is the only way to treat symptomatic fibroids. This misconception often causes unnecessary worry for those wanting to build a family.
Fortunately, this isn't the case. As highlighted by the Mayo Clinic (2026), healthcare professionals increasingly recommend uterus-preserving procedures for individuals who want to maintain their fertility. These options allow you to address the symptoms while keeping your reproductive goals intact.
A surgical procedure called a myomectomy can remove the fibroids while keeping your uterus intact. This allows you to preserve your ability to carry a pregnancy in the future. It's often the primary recommendation for patients wishing to protect their fertility.
Understanding your reproductive health is the first step toward building the family you want. If you're concerned about how fibroids might affect your fertility, our team is here to support you with personalized care. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Taylor.
