Obstetric complications of fibroids

Uterine fibroids (leiomyomas) are common benign tumors of uterine smooth muscle. They vary widely in number, size, and location. The effect of uterine fibroids on fecundity and pregnancy outcome remains controversial. In general, the literature tends to underestimate the prevalence of myomas in pregnancy and overestimate the complications that are attributed to them. This article reviews in detail the current literature regarding the effect Of uterine fibroids on pregnancy outcome, the mechanisms by which fibroids may complicate pregnancy, and the usefulness of medical and surgical interventions that are used to prevent and treat such complications.