Prolapsed degenerating postpartum uterine fibroid: A case report

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Reproductive Medicine

Background:

• Uterine fibroids (leiomyomas) are common in pregnancy, but their complications and optimal management strategies remain debated.
• Existing literature presents conflicting reports on fibroid-related complications during gestation.
• There is a lack of robust data guiding the best approach for managing these cases.

Observation:

• A pregnant patient with a large uterine fibroid experienced an uneventful pregnancy until delivery.
• Postpartum, the patient developed a rare complication: fibroid degeneration and vaginal prolapse.
• Initial conservative management included intrauterine balloon tamponade and anemia correction.

Findings:

• The patient was discharged home but later presented with recurrent foul-smelling vaginal discharge and a protruding fibroid.
• Surgical myomectomy was performed 40 days postpartum to address the persistent symptoms and prolapse.
• This case underscores the challenges in managing rare fibroid complications in the postpartum period.

Implications:

• This case emphasizes the need for vigilant monitoring of pregnant patients with large fibroids.
• It highlights the potential for severe, rare postpartum complications requiring surgical intervention.
• Further research is needed to establish clear guidelines for managing fibroid degeneration and prolapse post-delivery.