5 years ago I discovered I had 2 x fibroids of 5cm. I was advised by a private clinician that they should be removed as they could cause infertility but also issues during the pregnancy or birth. I spoke with my GP and was referred to gynecology in king's college hospital in London. I had an ultrasound and discussed with the physician what I had been advised and what were my options. The doctor explained that NHS does not advise on fibroids removal and that most pregnancies are not affected. They also said that they only advise In removal when they is excessive bleeding or extreme pain during the period.
I was trying to conceive for 2 years with no luck. They never suggested this could be due to the fibroids. I managed to get pregnancy in October. I am in Europe currently for a work contract. I went to the doctor here who was very concerned reg the fibroids. At 12 weeks I was having bleeding and was admitted to the hospital, the doctors said that due to the fibroid location and size (they got bigger during pregnancy at 6cm) would be impossible to have a natural birth but also really hard to have a cesarian and explained that this is a very high risk pregnancy (risk for miscarriage, pain as the fibroids grow, they could affect baby's health and more) and may also affect my health (excessive bleeding during labor). My baby didn't make it due to different reasons but what I realised is that removing the fibroids was crucial to both fertility and a good pregnancy. Ladies who have fibroids, please take second and third opinions and don't just go with what NHS doctors tell you. I am sure they mean well but every case is different and they should investigate and care of your well being.