Can You Take Birth Control Pills with Uterine Fibroids?

Can individuals with uterine fibroids take birth control pills?

Hello, during my recent visit to the obstetrics and gynecology department, the doctor informed me that I have a uterine fibroid approximately 3 cm in size and advised that I only need to monitor it.
Since I have a need for contraception, the doctor prescribed me Gyneia (Gestodene 0.075 mg, Ethinylestradiol 0.03 mg).
He didn't mention any contraindications, but later I found online that many people say that those with uterine fibroids should not take contraceptive pills, as it may cause the fibroids to grow larger.
I would like to know if I can still take Gyneia contraceptive pills now.

fush0, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/01/04

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

The uterine fibroid is approximately 3 centimeters in size, and I was informed that it only requires monitoring.
Since I have a need for contraception, the doctor prescribed me Gyneia (Gestodene 0.075mg, Ethinylestradiol 0.03mg).
He did not mention any contraindications, but later I found online that many people say that those with uterine fibroids should not take contraceptive pills, as it may cause the fibroids to grow larger.
I would like to ask if I can still take Gyneia contraceptive pills? Answer: It is generally acceptable to take contraceptive pills with uterine fibroids.

Reply Date: 2018/01/04

More Info

When it comes to the use of birth control pills in the presence of uterine fibroids, it’s essential to understand both the nature of fibroids and the hormonal components of the contraceptive pills. Uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomas, are non-cancerous growths in the uterus that can vary in size and number. They are influenced by estrogen, which is a hormone that can promote their growth.

The birth control pill you mentioned, Gyneia, contains two hormones: Gestodene (a progestin) and Ethinylestradiol (an estrogen). The concern that arises with using estrogen-containing contraceptives in women with fibroids is that estrogen can stimulate the growth of these fibroids. However, the relationship between hormonal contraceptives and fibroid growth is not entirely straightforward.

Many healthcare providers, including gynecologists, may prescribe birth control pills to women with fibroids for several reasons:
1. Symptom Management: Birth control pills can help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce heavy bleeding, which is a common symptom associated with fibroids. By controlling the menstrual cycle, these pills can alleviate some of the discomfort and complications that fibroids may cause.

2. Monitoring: If your doctor has recommended that you simply monitor the fibroid and has prescribed the pill without indicating any concerns, it suggests that they believe the benefits of using the pill outweigh the potential risks. Regular follow-ups can help ensure that the fibroid does not grow significantly while on the pill.

3. Individual Variability: The effect of birth control pills on fibroids can vary from person to person. Some women may experience no change in their fibroids, while others may notice growth. This variability is why it’s crucial to have ongoing discussions with your healthcare provider about your treatment plan.

4. Alternative Options: If you are concerned about the potential for fibroid growth while taking the pill, discuss alternative contraceptive methods with your doctor. There are non-hormonal options available, such as copper IUDs, which do not influence fibroid growth.

5. Regular Monitoring: If you choose to take the pill, it’s essential to have regular check-ups to monitor the size and symptoms of the fibroids. If you notice any changes, such as increased pain or heavy bleeding, you should inform your healthcare provider immediately.

In conclusion, while there is a theoretical risk that estrogen can promote the growth of uterine fibroids, many women with fibroids successfully use hormonal contraceptives without significant issues. It’s crucial to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider, who can tailor advice based on your specific situation and health history. If you have any lingering concerns or experience new symptoms, don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor for further evaluation and guidance.

Similar Q&A

Can Women with Uterine Fibroids Take Menstrual Regulation Pills?

Can patients with uterine fibroids take menstrual delay medication?

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, you can. Wishing you good health.

Should You Continue Birth Control Pills After Uterine Fibroid Surgery?

Hello Doctor: I am married with two children and turned 40 last year. I underwent my second laparoscopic surgery (to remove uterine fibroids) at the beginning of last year; the first surgery was during college, so I have a history of uterine fibroids. After the surgery last year,...

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
I am a married individual with two children, and I turned 40 last year. At the beginning of last year, I underwent my second laparoscopic surgery to remove uterine fibroids; the first surgery was during college, so I have a history of uterine fibroids. After the surgery last year...

Managing Side Effects of Birth Control Pills for Uterine Fibroids

Dear Dr. Liang, I have a question for you. I was diagnosed with uterine fibroids, and my doctor recommended that I take birth control pills. After nearly two months of taking them, I started experiencing severe itching in my breasts (I am currently in my fifth month of taking th...

Dr. Liang Yinpan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello! Uterine fibroids are benign tumors that grow from the uterine muscle and are one of the most common tumors in women. If asymptomatic, they are often difficult to detect and typically do not require treatment. Generally, they are managed as part of internal medicine, focusi...

Managing Uterine Fibroids: Oral Contraceptives vs. IUDs

I have a 6.5 cm uterine fibroid and a 3 cm ovarian cyst, with an Hct of 9.6. Other cancer markers and biopsies are normal. Can I use oral contraceptives to reduce menstrual bleeding, or should I use an IUD? Is it possible to avoid surgery for now? Can I continue to monitor the si...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, if you prefer not to undergo surgery, conservative treatment methods are available, including hormonal contraceptives, oral symptom management medications, and the Mirena intrauterine device, among others. You can discuss these options with your obstetrician-gynecologist a...