6 Must-Know Risk Factors for Fibroids
Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths that cause symptoms like heavy periods, bloating, and pelvic pain. But what causes fibroids in the first place? Read on as we share six must-know risk factors for fibroids.
Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths that can cause heavy periods, pelvic pain, frequent urination, and even fertility issues. While they’re common, especially among women of reproductive age, you may not realize what factors can increase your risk.
Here at The Fibroid Center at Image Guided Surgery in Clinton, Maryland, Dr. Nordine Gaugau wants you to understand the factors contributing to your symptoms and, most importantly, how you can get relief without major surgery.
1. Being of Childbearing Age
Fibroids typically develop during your reproductive years, especially between 30 and 50. Up to 80% of women have at least one by age 50.
This age range covers when your hormone levels, particularly estrogen and progesterone, are highest, specifically at levels that can fuel fibroid growth.
2. Family History of Fibroids
If your mother or sister had fibroids, your chances of developing them are significantly higher. So, if you want to know whether you’re prone to fibroids, don’t ignore family patterns. Sharing this family history with your healthcare provider can help guide early monitoring and personalized care.
3. Increased Risk Among Black Women
Research shows that Black women in the U.S. are disproportionately affected by fibroids, often developing them at a younger age and experiencing more severe symptoms and faster-growing fibroids compared to women of other racial or ethnic backgrounds. The reasons for this disparity are still being studied and may include a combination of genetic, environmental, and social factors. Understanding this increased risk can support earlier diagnosis, more effective management, treatment, and improved health outcomes.
4. Higher Body Weight
Carrying extra weight can increase your risk of fibroids. Fat cells produce more estrogen, which can contribute to fibroid growth. Maintaining a weight that’s healthy for your body may help lower this risk, though fibroids can still occur in people of all sizes.
5. Unbalanced Diet
What you eat can affect your risk of fibroids. Studies show that eating a lot of red meat and not enough green vegetables, fruits, and dairy products may increase your chances.
It’s not just what you eat. A lack of micronutrients, especially vitamin D, can increase your risk of fibroids. A large review from Johns Hopkins University looked at 14 clinical studies and found that women with low vitamin D levels were more likely to have fibroids.
Getting enough vitamin D through sunlight, food, or supplements may help lower your risk.
6. Hormone Imbalances
Hormones like estrogen and progesterone can influence fibroid development. When the levels of these hormones fluctuate, it can cause fibroids to grow or become more symptomatic.
Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or certain medications can affect your hormone balance.
If your body produces more estrogen than it needs, fibroids may grow faster or become more bothersome.
You don’t need surgery to find relief
While it helps to manage the risk factors within your control (like diet and weight), note that some are beyond your control. It’s part of the reason uterine fibroids are so prevalent.
Here’s the good news: You don’t have to live with painful fibroid symptoms or go through major surgery to feel better. Dr. Gaugau specializes in uterine fibroid embolization to treat uterine fibroids without surgery.
During this minimally invasive procedure, Dr. Gaugau shrinks your fibroids by cutting off their blood supply. It’s done without general anesthesia and doesn’t require a large incision, so recovery is much faster than traditional surgery.
Concerned you have fibroids?
If you suspect your symptoms indicate fibroids, contact Dr. Gaugau and the expert team at Image Guided Surgery Center. Call our friendly team at 240-244-2302 or send us a message online today to get started.
References:
● Fibroids: More Common than You Think | Center for Women’s Health | OHSU
