Uterine myomas during pregnancy: a longitudinal sonographic study
A De Vivo1, A Mancuso, A Giacobbe
1Department of Gynecological, Obstetrical Sciences and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital, Messina, Italy. antonio.devivo@gmail.com
Summary
Uterine fibroids (myomas) commonly enlarge during pregnancy. Maternal factors like age, prepregnancy body mass index (BMI), and parity influence these volumetric changes in fibroids.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Reproductive Medicine
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Uterine myomas, commonly known as fibroids, are prevalent in women of reproductive age.
- Pregnancy can influence the size of uterine myomas, but the extent and influencing factors require further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantitatively assess the volumetric changes of uterine myomas throughout pregnancy.
- To identify maternal and myoma-related factors associated with fibroid growth during gestation.
Main Methods:
- An observational, longitudinal, and prospective study involving 38 women with singleton pregnancies.
- Ultrasound assessments of 42 uterine myomas were conducted at 11-14, 20-22, and 32-34 weeks of gestation.
Main Results:
- Mean uterine myoma volume significantly increased during pregnancy.
- Over 66% of fibroids showed a >10% size increase between gestational periods.
- Greater maternal age and multiparity correlated with reduced/no change in myoma size, while higher prepregnancy BMI correlated with initial growth.
Conclusions:
- Uterine fibroids demonstrate a general tendency to enlarge during pregnancy.
- Maternal age, prepregnancy BMI, and parity are significant factors associated with myoma volumetric changes during gestation.
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