The scan report says “fibroids.”

Before the doctor finishes explaining, your mind has already gone to one question: Will I ever have a baby?

Fibroids can affect fertility, but finding them does not prove that they are the reason pregnancy has not happened. Read!

Q: Dear Dr, I’ve been married for some years without a child. It’s been revealed that I have tiny fibroids. What kinds of foods and drinks should I avoid so the fibroids would not get enlarged? Thanks

A: You didn’t tell me how long you’ve been married for or better still, how long you’ve been trying for a baby. Usually, if it’s not up to one year of frequent, unprotected sex, then we would not be quick to say there is a problem. By the way, frequent unprotected intercourse means that sexual intercourse is not less than 3 times a week and it is done without any means of contraception.

Fibroids may or may not cause inability to have a pregnancy. It depends on size and position. Big fibroids in the area of the womb where a baby is meant to implant may cause a miscarriage or indeed, failure of the fertilized embryo to implant. Your doctor will take a decision on what to do with the fibroids based on size, symptoms etc

What foods to avoid? Once fibroids have been developed, shrinking their size can be conveniently done using medication. There’s no evidence to support the role of food in shrinking fibroids.

Ask your doctor to show you where the fibroids are on the scan. Find out whether they are affecting the part of the womb where a pregnancy would develop.

Not every fibroid needs to be removed. Surgery may help in some situations, but the decision should be based on what the fibroid is actually doing.

A fertility assessment should also look beyond the fibroids and include both partners.

If you are under 35, seek help after 12 months of trying. If you are 35 or older, seek help after 6 months. You may need an earlier assessment if you already have a known reproductive health concern.

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