Understanding Fibroids and Fertility
Dr. Lee Caperton • October 7, 2025
Learn how uterine fibroids can influence conception and pregnancy — and how modern fertility care can make a difference.
Uterine fibroids are a common diagnosis among women of reproductive age. While many fibroids are harmless and cause no symptoms, others can interfere with fertility and pregnancy. At Caperton Fertility Institute, we help patients understand how fibroids may affect reproductive health and provide personalized treatment options to optimize fertility outcomes.
What Are Uterine Fibroids?
Fibroids, also known as leiomyomas, are benign (non-cancerous) growths that develop in or on the uterus. They can vary greatly in size, number, and location. Depending on where they form, fibroids are classified into several types:
- Submucosal Fibroids: Grow into the uterine cavity
- Intramural Fibroids: Develop within the uterine wall
- Subserosal Fibroids: Form on the outer surface of the uterus
- Pedunculated Fibroids: Attached by a stalk extending from the uterus
How Fibroids Can Affect Fertility
Not all fibroids impact fertility. However, certain types and locations are more likely to interfere with conception, implantation, or pregnancy progression.
- Submucosal Fibroids:
These are most likely to affect fertility because they distort the uterine cavity, which can prevent implantation or increase the risk of miscarriage. - Intramural Fibroids:
When large, these fibroids can change the shape of the uterus and affect blood flow, potentially reducing the chances of successful embryo implantation. - Tubal Blockage:
Fibroids located near the fallopian tubes can obstruct sperm or egg movement, preventing fertilization. - Cervical Fibroids:
Although rare, fibroids near the cervix can hinder sperm entry into the uterus.
Common Symptoms of Fibroids
Fibroid symptoms vary widely — some people experience significant discomfort, while others have no symptoms at all. Common signs include:
- Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
- Pelvic pain or pressure
- Pain during intercourse
- Frequent urination or constipation
- Recurrent pregnancy loss or difficulty conceiving
For many patients, fibroids are first discovered during a fertility evaluation or routine pelvic exam.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
At Caperton Fertility Institute, we use advanced diagnostic imaging such as ultrasound and MRI to assess fibroid size, number, and location. Once diagnosed, treatment is tailored to your fertility goals and overall health.
Treatment options include:
- Medical Management: Hormonal therapies to reduce symptoms and fibroid growth.
- Surgical Options: Myomectomy to remove fibroids while preserving the uterus.
- Minimally Invasive Procedures: Hysteroscopic or laparoscopic surgery for faster recovery and minimal scarring.
Our approach is designed to preserve fertility whenever possible while alleviating symptoms and improving uterine health.
Hope After a Fibroid Diagnosis
A fibroid diagnosis doesn’t mean you can’t conceive. Many patients with fibroids go on to achieve healthy pregnancies — especially with proper evaluation and treatment.
At Caperton Fertility Institute, our experienced fertility specialists in Albuquerque, NM, and El Paso, TX, provide compassionate, individualized care for every patient. We’ll guide you through diagnosis, treatment, and the next steps toward achieving your dream of parenthood.
✨ If you suspect fibroids may be affecting your fertility, schedule a consultation today. Let’s take the next step together toward your fertility goals.
Every loss is unique. Every story matters. Every life is remembered.
1. What is egg donation? Egg donation is the process by which a healthy woman donates her eggs to help another individual or couple conceive a child. These eggs may be fertilized through in vitro fertilization (IVF) and implanted into a recipient’s uterus or frozen for future use. 2. Who can become an egg donor? At Caperton Fertility Institute, we welcome egg donors who meet the following criteria: Ages 19–30 Physically and emotionally healthy Non-smoker, non-drug user Regular menstrual cycles No history of genetic or reproductive disorders Willing to undergo medical and psychological screening Able to commit to the time and responsibilities of the donation process 3. Why do people need egg donors? Egg donors help individuals and couples who are unable to conceive using their own eggs due to: Advanced maternal age Genetic conditions Medical treatments like chemotherapy LGBTQ+ family-building Unexplained infertility 4. Is egg donation safe? Yes. Egg donation is a common and generally safe medical process. It involves hormone injections to stimulate the ovaries and a minor outpatient procedure to retrieve the eggs. Risks are low but can include mild discomfort, bloating, or temporary side effects from medication. Serious complications are rare. 5. Will donating affect my fertility? No, egg donation does not impact your long-term fertility. Women are born with thousands of eggs, and donation uses only a small number that would naturally be lost in a normal cycle. 6. Is egg donation painful? Most donors report mild discomfort similar to menstrual cramps. The egg retrieval procedure is done under light sedation, so you won’t feel pain during the process. Recovery typically takes 1–2 days. 7. Will I be compensated? Yes. Caperton Fertility Institute offers generous, ethically guided compensation for your time, effort, and commitment. The amount is discussed during your initial consultation and complies with all legal and medical guidelines. 8. How long is the egg donation process? The process generally takes 6–10 weeks from initial screening to egg retrieval. It includes: Application and screening Medical and psychological evaluations Legal review Hormonal stimulation (approx. 10–14 days) Egg retrieval procedure 9. Can I still work or go to school during the donation process? Yes. Most of the process can be scheduled around your routine. However, you'll need to attend several clinic appointments and take medications on a strict schedule. During the last week, you'll need to reduce physical activity. 10. Will my identity be kept confidential? Absolutely. Donor confidentiality is strictly maintained. You can choose to remain anonymous, open, or semi-open, depending on your preferences and the recipient’s needs. 11. How do I get started? To begin the egg donor application process: Visit our Portal Fill out a questionnaire Our donor coordinator will contact you for next steps 12. Can I donate more than once? Yes, eligible donors can donate up to six times, as recommended by the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM). Each cycle is spaced out for your health and safety.
Polycystic ovary syndrome ( PCOS ) is one of the most common hormonal conditions affecting women of reproductive age. It impacts up to 1 in 10 women worldwide and is a leading cause of irregular cycles, ovulation problems, and infertility . At Caperton Fertility Institute , with fertility clinics in Albuquerque, NM, and El Paso, TX , we specialize in diagnosing and treating PCOS to help women restore their reproductive health and achieve pregnancy. What Is PCOS? PCOS is a hormonal imbalance that disrupts normal ovulation. Women with PCOS often produce higher levels of androgens (male hormones), which interfere with the release of eggs from the ovaries. Instead of regular ovulation, the ovaries may develop multiple small follicles, sometimes described as a “string of pearls” appearance on ultrasound. This condition can affect not only fertility but also long-term health , making early diagnosis and treatment essential. Common PCOS Symptoms Not all women experience PCOS in the same way, but common symptoms include: Irregular or absent menstrual cycles Difficulty ovulating or unpredictable fertile windows Excess hair growth on the face, chest, or back (hirsutism) Acne or oily skin Weight gain or difficulty losing weight Thinning hair on the scalp Darkened patches of skin (insulin resistance-related) If you are experiencing these symptoms, a fertility specialist in Albuquerque or El Paso can help confirm whether PCOS is the cause. How PCOS Affects Fertility PCOS is one of the leading causes of female infertility due to: Irregular ovulation – making it harder to predict fertile days Insulin resistance – common in women with PCOS, which worsens hormonal imbalance Hormonal disruptions – affecting egg quality and cycle regularity Inflammation – which may reduce implantation and embryo development The good news is that with proper PCOS treatment , many women can successfully conceive—either naturally or with fertility support like IUI or IVF . PCOS Fertility Treatment Options at Caperton Fertility Institute At Caperton Fertility Institute , we provide personalized fertility care for women with PCOS. Depending on your health and goals, treatment may include: Lifestyle & Medical Management Nutrition counseling and exercise support Medications to regulate menstrual cycles and lower androgen levels Ovulation Induction Letrozole or clomiphene to stimulate ovulation Careful ultrasound and lab monitoring to maximize success Advanced Fertility Treatments Intrauterine insemination (IUI) for couples who need additional support In vitro fertilization (IVF) for women who do not respond to ovulation medications or who need higher success rates Comprehensive PCOS Management Addressing metabolic health (insulin resistance, prediabetes, cholesterol) Supporting long-term wellness, not just fertility outcomes Living With PCOS: Finding Hope A diagnosis of PCOS can feel overwhelming, but it does not mean you cannot become pregnant. With the right treatment plan, women with PCOS have excellent chances of conception and healthy pregnancy . At Caperton Fertility Institute , we provide advanced reproductive technology, cutting-edge PCOS treatments, and compassionate care to help women build their families. Next Steps: PCOS Treatment in Albuquerque & El Paso If you have symptoms of PCOS or are struggling to conceive, our team can help. We combine expert medical care with personalized fertility plans designed to give you the best chance of success. 📍 Caperton Fertility Institute – Albuquerque, NM & El Paso, TX 📞 Call today or request a consultation online to learn more about PCOS and fertility treatment options .