Uterine leiomyoma in women of reproductive age: pregnancy and childbirth management (Literature review)

Abstract

The article presents a review of the current literature on the problem of uterine leiomyoma (UL) in women of reproductive age during pregnancy and childbirth. We studied the main issues of uterine leiomyoma etiology and pathogenesis, as one of the leading causes of reproductive dysfunction and possible complications during pregnancy and childbirth.UL is the most common tumor of the female genitalia and occurs in 20–30% of women of reproductive age. It is impossible to determine a more accurate indicator of this pathology, given the asymptomatic course of more than 70% of cases and irregular consultations by obstetricians and gynecologists.There is evidence that uterine leiomyoma is associated with infertility in only 5–10% of cases, but only 2–3% of cases when all other causes are ruled out. The submucosal node has the most adverse effect on fertility and reduces the implantation frequency by 72% and increases the miscarriage risk by 60%. Subserous LM affects fertility to a lesser extent than submucosal LM, but large nodules can lead to infertility requiring surgical treatment. An individual approach to the treatment of women with intramural LM is required, as there is insufficient data on the node effect on fertility.The most common complications of pregnancy, childbirth and the postpartum period in women with uterine leiomyoma in 22–58% of cases are late preeclampsia, fetoplacental insufficiency, anemia of pregnancy, fetal growth restriction, incorrect position and presentation of the fetus. Pregnancy also adversely affects UL, leading to acute secondary changes and rapid tumor growth, which in turn can lead to severe obstetric complications.