Comparison of pregnancy outcomes in different localizations of uterine fibroids

Objective: The basic aim of this study is to compare the pregnancy outcomes in cases with uterine fibroids located at the anterior and posterior uterine walls. Materials and methods: A total of 84 pregnant women with a diagnosis of uterine myoma larger than 30 millimeter (mm) in diameter were included in the study to determine the obstetric outcomes. In 64 (76.20%) patients, myomas were detected at the anterior uterine wall (group I), while 20 (23.80%) were detected at the posterior uterine wall (group 2). All patients were followed monthly until the end of pregnancy. Demographic and obstetric characteristics were compared between the two groups. Results: There were no significant differences in age, gravida, parity, and myoma size between the two groups. A significant difference existed between the groups with regard to pelvic pain. Posterior located fibroids were associated with more pelvic pain (p = 0.001). No difference was observed between the two groups with regard to the rates of preterm delivery, bleeding in early pregnancy, infants with small for gestational age, and hospitalization period during pregnancy. Women with posterior located myomas had significantly higher miscarriage rates. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that pregnancies with uterine fibroids are at increased risk for complications. Posterior located fibroids larger than 30 mm in diameter are associated with severe pelvic pain compared to anterior located fibroids.