Understanding Fibroids During Pregnancy

Fibroids, also known as uterine leiomyomas, are non-cancerous growths that frequently occur in women of childbearing age. These growths are particularly common among African American women, but they can affect any woman. At Covington Women’s Health Specialists, we have extensive experience caring for patients with fibroids both during pregnancy and at other stages of life. It’s essential to understand that while fibroids can be monitored, there are limitations to the treatments that can be provided during pregnancy.

During pregnancy, the hormonal changes can sometimes cause fibroids to grow, leading to discomfort or pain for the expectant mother. While this can be concerning, it’s important to note that neither obstetricians nor specialists can remove or shrink fibroids during pregnancy due to the potential risks to both the mother and the baby. Our approach involves careful monitoring and managing any symptoms to ensure the best possible outcome for both the mother and child. Specialists often assist obstetricians in this monitoring process, providing additional expertise and care when needed.

While pain is the most common symptom fibroids cause during pregnancy, fibroids are also associated with early miscarriages and bleeding during pregnancy.  Women with fibroids experience preterm delivery and cesarean section delivery more commonly than women without fibroids. For most women with fibroids, the baby’s growth progresses normally; however, fibroids can sometimes hinder fetal growth. Complications like early leakage of amniotic fluid or preterm labor are difficult to predict, even with close monitoring by an obstetrician or specialist.

While we cannot prevent the growth of fibroids during pregnancy, our team is dedicated to providing comprehensive care and support. We provide monitoring and when needed work closely with specialists to keep a close eye on the condition and address any concerns that arise. If you have fibroids and are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, schedule your prenatal or gynecological appointment online or by calling our office at (770) 385-8954 to discuss your condition with one of our providers to develop a tailored care plan.

Resources for Our Pregnant Patients at Piedmont Newton Hospital

At Covington Women’s Health Specialists, we deliver at Piedmont Newton Hospital, our trusted partner healthcare institution. Here are some resources that Piedmont Newton offers expected mothers as the preparation for their new baby:

Breastfeeding Basics

This class is offered on the first Wednesday of every month from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Maternity Center Tour

This tour is every second and fourth Wednesday of the month from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Childbirth Education Class

This class is every third Wednesday and Thursday of the month from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Visit Piedmont Healthcare’s website for more information on how to register for its classes and events. 

The Benefits of Nerve Blocks Over Narcotics for Post-Surgery and Postpartum Pain Relief

At Covington Women’s Health Specialists, we prioritize the well-being and comfort of our patients. We take pride in our affiliation with Piedmont Newton Hospital and their anesthesiologists’ and anesthetists’ commitment to offering advanced pain management techniques to enhance patient recovery. One such technique is the use of nerve blocks, a method that has proven to be highly effective in reducing postoperative and postpartum pain while minimizing the reliance on narcotic medications.

Nerve blocks are a form of regional anesthesia that involves injecting medication near specific nerves to block pain signals from reaching the brain. This targeted approach provides significant pain relief in the immediate postoperative and postpartum periods. Unlike systemic narcotic medications, which can affect the entire body and cause a range of side effects such as drowsiness, nausea, and constipation, nerve blocks work locally, allowing patients to experience effective pain relief without these unwanted side effects.

The benefits of using nerve blocks over narcotics are particularly important in the context of obstetrics and gynecology. After surgery or childbirth, effective pain management is crucial for a smooth recovery. Nerve blocks not only reduce physical discomfort but also help new mothers stay alert and engaged during the crucial early bonding period with their newborns. Additionally, minimizing the use of narcotics helps prevent potential issues related to dependency and ensures a safer recovery process.

The skilled anesthesiologists and anesthetists at Piedmont Newton Hospital are highly trained in administering nerve blocks, ensuring that our patients receive the best possible care. By prioritizing patient comfort and recovery, we are striving to enhance the overall patient experience and ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients.

To schedule a prenatal visit to learn more, call our office at 770-385-8954 or request an appointment online.