Calcified Uterine Fibroids Singapore: Do they Need to Be Removed?

Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus. These benign tumors are quite common, especially among women of childbearing age.

While many fibroids remain small and don’t require treatment, they can sometimes undergo a process called calcification. Once fibroids calcify, they harden and may shrink.

This may lead to a host of different symptoms compared to non-calcified fibroids. Singapore is a preferable destination if you’re considering fibroids removal thanks to advance medical care.

But do calcified fibroids really need removal? Stay on this page to find out.

What Causes Calcified Uterine Fibroids?

Calcified fibroids occur when a fibroid loses its blood supply, leading to degeneration and calcium deposits. As fibroids grow, they depend on a blood supply to keep expanding.

When blood flow is insufficient—often due to aging, hormonal changes, or treatments—fibroids can shrink and harden through calcification. One of the primary causes of calcified fibroids is age.

Menopause, in particular, leads to lower estrogen and progesterone levels, which can cause fibroids to shrink and calcify. Other factors include hormonal imbalances that may have triggered the initial fibroid growth, as well as previous treatments like uterine artery embolization, which cut off blood flow to the fibroid.

Genetic factors can also play a role, as women with a family history of fibroids are more likely to develop them. Over time, these fibroids are more likely to calcify, especially as the individual nears menopause.

What are the Symptoms of Calcified Uterine Fibroids?

The symptoms of calcified fibroids can vary significantly, depending on their size and location. Common symptoms include:

• Pelvic Pain: As fibroids harden, they can cause discomfort or persistent pain in the pelvic region.
• Heavy Bleeding: Some women may still experience heavy menstrual bleeding. However, calcified fibroids generally cause less bleeding than non-calcified ones.
• Bloating or Abdominal Swelling: The presence of large calcified fibroids may result in noticeable abdominal bloating or pressure.
• Frequent Urination: Depending on the location of the fibroid, pressure on the bladder can lead to frequent urination.
• Constipation: In some cases, fibroids can press against the rectum, leading to constipation or bowel discomfort.

Can You Get Pregnant with Calcification in the Uterus?

Many women who still hope to conceive but are diagnosed with calcified fibroids in Singapore often wonder if they could still get pregnant? This explains the frequently asked question; can you get pregnant with calcification in the uterus?

Now, fibroids, including calcified ones, can distort the shape of the uterus. This can potentially affect your fertility. For instance, calcified fibroids may block the fallopian tubes which would make it difficult for the egg and sperm to meet.

What’s more, the presence of calcified fibroids in the uterus can affect the uterine lining, and make implantation of a fertilized egg more challenging. This may increase the risk of infertility or miscarriage.

However, not all women with calcified fibroids will face difficulties getting pregnant. The impact depends on the fibroid’s size, location, and number.

That said, it is best to seek medical guidance if you are trying to conceive with known fibroids. A women’s health specialist can assess the potential impact of the fibroids on your fertility and recommend possible treatments, such as surgical removal, to increase the chances of a successful pregnancy.

When Should Calcified Uterine Fibroids Be Removed?

Deciding whether calcified fibroids should be removed depends on several factors. You may be recommended treatment for calcified fibroids in Singapore if;

• You’re getting Severe Symptoms: Calcified fibroids do not cause pain always. If they begin to cause severe pain, heavy bleeding, or significant discomfort, removal may be necessary to improve the quality of life.
• The Fibroids are Impacting your Life: Fibroids that press on the bladder or bowel can lead to frequent urination or constipation and affect everyday activities. Removal might be recommended in such cases.
• You Desire to Conceive: For women who want to conceive, removing fibroids that could impact fertility is often the best approach. Myomectomy is generally preferred for preserving the uterus.
• You’re Experiencing Fibroid Growth or New Symptoms: Although calcified fibroids tend to stop growing, monitoring them is important. If new symptoms come up, or if they start growing, treatment may be needed.
• You Just want the Fibroids Removed: Some women prefer to have fibroids removed even if they are asymptomatic. This is especially true if they are concerned about potential future complications.

Treatment for Calcified Uterine Fibroids

The treatment of calcified uterine fibroids depends on the severity of symptoms. Your health, and personal preferences may also influence your need for the removal of your calcified uterine fibroids in Singapore. If considering treatment, here are some options that may be recommended for you;

1.     Hormone Therapy

Hormone therapy is often used to manage the symptoms associated with fibroids. Gonadotropin-releasing hormones (GnRH) are commonly prescribed to shrink fibroids.

These medications, such as Zoladex (goserelin), Lupron Depot (leuprolide acetate), Synarel (nafarelin), and Decapeptyl (triptorelin), induce a state similar to menopause, thereby starving the fibroid of estrogen and progesterone. While effective, these drugs can cause side effects like hot flashes, mood changes, and osteoporosis, and may affect fertility. Therefore, they are typically used for a short duration or as a prelude to surgery.

2.     Surgery

For symptomatic calcified fibroids, surgical removal may be necessary. If you’ve been recommended surgery for fibroids in Singapore, your options typically include;

• Myomectomy: This procedure involves removing fibroids while leaving the uterus intact. It is a suitable option for women who wish to retain their fertility. Myomectomy can be done laparoscopically, which involves smaller incisions and faster recovery.
• Hysterectomy: A more definitive approach, a hysterectomy involves the removal of part or all of the uterus. This procedure is recommended if the fibroids cause severe symptoms or if there are complications like uterine prolapse. A hysterectomy ensures that fibroids do not return, but it also ends the ability to conceive.

3.     Non-Surgical Treatments

There are also non-surgical treatment that can help with calcified fibroids removal. Options include;

• Uterine Artery Embolization (UAE): This minimally invasive procedure involves injecting small particles into the arteries that supply blood to the fibroids. This cuts off their blood flow which over time, causes the fibroids to shrink.
• MRI-Guided Focused Ultrasound Surgery (MRgFUS): This method uses high-frequency sound waves to disrupt fibroid cells, causing them to shrink. It is most effective when used on fibroids that are not heavily calcified.

In Closing

Calcified fibroids do not need to be removed especially if symptoms are mild or absent. In this cases, watchful waiting might be a reasonable approach.

But still, you can benefit from monitoring with imaging tests to ensure that the fibroids remain stable. As a general rule, consult a gynecologist to help determine the most suitable treatment plan based on individual needs and preferences. If you’re in Singapore, find a board-certified dermatologist at;