Ultrasound in Fibroids: Diagnosis and Impact

Uterine fibroids (leiomyomas) are non-cancerous growths of the uterus that often appear during childbearing years. While many women have fibroids without any symptoms, for others, they can cause heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, and significant fertility hurdles. Ultrasound is the primary tool used to map these growths and plan effective treatment.

Types of Fibroids Based on Location

The impact of a fibroid depends heavily on where it is located within the uterine wall. During an ultrasound, we categorize them into three main types:

• Intramural Fibroids: These grow within the muscular wall of the uterus. If they become large, they can distort the shape of the uterus.
• Subserosal Fibroids: These project outside the uterus. While they may cause pressure on the bladder or bowels, they often have the least impact on fertility.
• Submucosal Fibroids: These bulge into the uterine cavity. Even small submucosal fibroids can interfere with embryo implantation and are a common cause of infertility and miscarriage.

Sonographic Appearance

On a Transvaginal Ultrasound (TVS), fibroids typically appear as well-defined, solid, hypoechoic (darker) masses. We use Color Doppler to assess the blood supply to the fibroid, which is essential when planning surgical interventions like a myomectomy.

Fibroids and Fertility Success

At Talwar Fertility & Child Health Centre, we emphasize that not all fibroids require surgery. However, if a fibroid is blocking the fallopian tubes or preventing an embryo from attaching to the uterine lining, specialized removal may be necessary before proceeding with IVF. Our advanced imaging allows us to make this decision with clinical precision.