Fibroids are firm, abnormal growths that develop in or on a woman’s uterus. These benign tumors are made of smooth muscle cells and fibroid connective tissue. Approximately 70-80 percent of women will develop fibroids in their lifetime, though not everyone will have symptoms or require medical treatment.
What are five side effects of fibroids?
Common fibroid side effects include:
- Severe abdominal, lower back or pelvic pain
- Abnormal, heavy, irregular or painful menstruation and spotting between periods
- Abdominal distention and cramping
- Excess pressure on the bladder, causing frequent urination
- Excess pressure on the rectum, causing rectal pressure
What are the common risk factors for fibroids?
Common factors that can increase a woman’s risk of developing fibroids include:
- Age
Fibroids are more common in women between the ages of 30-50 and through menopause. After menopause, fibroids tend to shrink. - Family History
If a woman’s mother had fibroids, she is three times more likely to develop fibroids than those without a family history. - Ethnic Origin
African-Americans are more likely to develop fibroids than women of European decent. - Obesity
The risk of fibroids is two to three times greater in women who are excessively overweight or obese.
- Eating Habits
Women who consume a lot of red meat and ham are linked with a higher risk of fibroids. Filling your plate with leafy green vegetables, on the other hand, may protect you from developing fibroids.
What causes fibroids?
While the exact cause of fibroids remains unknown, researchers believe it could be related to hormonal changes and genetics. Fibroids are sensitive to changes in estrogen and progesterone, which is why they tend to grow during pregnancy (when hormone levels are high) and shrink once a woman reaches menopause.
If you’re looking for skilled, compassionate gynecologists in McKinney and Prosper, TX, contact Adriatica Women’s Health. Our board-certified gynecologists are dedicated to using the most advanced, minimally invasive techniques to treat your medical conditions.