Answer:

Uterine fibroids are benign tumors that develop in the uterine muscle, common in women of reproductive age. Depending on their size and location, fibroids can cause irregular periods, hinder conception, or increase the risk of miscarriage and pregnancy complications such as slow fetal growth, placental abruption, premature birth, abnormal fetal position, and miscarriage.

If performed correctly with proper post-operative care, uterine fibroid removal surgery does not reduce the chances of pregnancy. In many cases, the surgery can even improve fertility, especially if the fibroids are located within or near the uterine cavity, directly impacting conception and fetal development.

Associate Professor Doctor Luu Thi Hong advising a patient. Illustrative photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Typically, after fibroid removal surgery, women are advised to wait at least 12 months for the uterus to fully heal before attempting pregnancy. Conceiving too soon can increase the risk of uterine rupture or miscarriage. During this period, doctors monitor uterine recovery through ultrasounds, assess the endometrial lining, and then advise on the most suitable time to conceive.

If the patient plans to conceive through in vitro fertilization (IVF), doctors adjust the treatment plan to ensure safety considering the post-operative uterine condition. This approach increases the chances of pregnancy for women who have undergone fibroid removal surgery.

Master of Science Doctor Duong Ngoc Hung

Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology

Tam Anh General Hospital