Can Fibroids Cause Infertility? What Women Need to Know Before Trying to Conceive
Uterine fibroids are extremely common, especially among women of reproductive age. In fact, up to 1 in 5 women may have fibroids at some point in their lives. But one of the most common questions I hear from women who are trying to conceive is this:
“Are my fibroids the reason I can’t get pregnant?”
The answer is more nuanced than most people realize.
How Often Do Fibroids Actually Cause Infertility?
Fibroids are found in about 5–10% of women being evaluated for infertility. However, research shows that fibroids are the sole cause of infertility in only a small percentage of cases — roughly 2–3%.
That means many women with fibroids conceive naturally. The presence of fibroids alone does not automatically equal infertility.
What matters more is:
• The size of the fibroid
• The number of fibroids
• And most importantly, the location
Why Location Matters
Not all fibroids behave the same way.
Fibroids that grow on the outside of the uterus (subserosal fibroids) often do not affect fertility at all.
However, fibroids that distort the uterine cavity — particularly submucosal fibroids and some intramural fibroids — can interfere with implantation. These types may:
• Alter the shape of the uterus
• Reduce blood flow to the uterine lining
• Make it more difficult for an embryo to implant
In assisted reproductive settings, certain cavity-distorting fibroids have been associated with significantly lower pregnancy and implantation rates.
Do Fibroids Increase Miscarriage Risk?
Earlier studies suggested that fibroids might increase miscarriage risk. However, larger and more recent studies have shown mixed results, with some data indicating no significant increase in miscarriage risk once other factors are controlled for.
This highlights something important: fibroids are not a simple yes-or-no fertility diagnosis.
They require individualized assessment.
So What Should You Do If You Have Fibroids?
If you are trying to conceive and have been diagnosed with fibroids, the first step is clarity — not panic.
Ask your provider:
• What type of fibroid is it?
• Does it distort the uterine cavity?
• Is it affecting blood flow?
• Is it growing?
Understanding your specific case is critical.
From a holistic perspective, supporting uterine health, reducing inflammation, regulating stress, and improving blood flow are also important layers of fertility preparation.
A Balanced Approach
Surgery is sometimes recommended when fibroids clearly interfere with implantation. In other cases, monitoring and supportive care may be appropriate.
Fertility is rarely about one single factor. Hormonal balance, nervous system regulation, lifestyle, and uterine environment all work together.
If you are navigating fibroids and trying to conceive, individualized support matters.
Fertility Support Rooted in Education
As a fertility doula, I work with women who want to understand their bodies deeply — not just receive surface-level answers.
If you have questions about:
• Preparing your womb for conception
• Supporting uterine health
• Navigating fibroid-related fertility concerns
You can book a Fertility Consultation to explore next steps in a grounded and informed way.
And if you are looking for supportive herbal blends to complement your wellness routine, you can explore our womb-supporting yoni tea and steaming kits available on the site.