Understanding the Cause of Fibroids
Fibroids, also known as uterine leiomyomas, are non-cancerous growths in the soft muscle tissue of the uterus. They're common and affect almost 80% of women by the time they reach 50 years old.
One of the most common questions for women with a fibroid diagnosis is, "What causes them to grow in or on my uterus in the first place?"
Here, we discuss the causes and contributing factors of fibroid development. Continue reading to learn more about the causes of fibroids and effective uterus fibroid treatment.
Factors that Influence Fibroid Development
Several factors are thought to be connected to the growth of uterine fibroids, such as hormonal changes and a family history of fibroids. However, a specific cause has not been confirmed.
Hormonal Changes
One major factor in fibroid growth is the body making too much of two hormones: progesterone and estrogen.
Estrogen, the main female sex hormone, helps the lining of the uterus grow during periods. When estrogen is at its peak, such as during pregnancy, it can speed up fibroid growth. On the other hand, fibroids usually get smaller during menopause.
Progesterone may also be an essential factor in fibroid development. It helps make proteins that could affect how fibroids grow.
Genetics
Women who have family members with fibroids are more likely, based on statistics, to develop them.
Scientists have also found genetic mutations that might raise the chance of developing fibroids, although more research is necessary to confirm this.
Other Factors that Increase Uterine Fibroid Risk
Aside from hormonal imbalances and genetic factors, other things might affect your risk of developing fibroids, including:
- Your Age
Fibroids are more common in women of reproductive age, especially between 30 and 40. When women reach menopause, lower estrogen and progesterone levels can reduce fibroid growth. - Race or Ethnicity
Studies suggest fibroids are more common in women of African descent compared to other ethnic backgrounds, but the reasons for this difference are still being studied. - Weight
Being overweight or obese increases the chances of developing fibroids. Extra body weight can cause hormonal imbalances and changes in estrogen production and metabolism, encouraging fibroid development and increased growth.
Dallas Fibroid Center: A Trusted Fibroid Treatment Clinic in Texas
You don't have to struggle with symptomatic fibroids. Targeted treatment for uterine fibroids is possible.
At Dallas Fibroid Center, we offer advanced and accessible uterine fibroid treatment.
Our fibroid specialists bring decades of experience in non-invasive fibroid treatment, including Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE).
UFE is one of the most effective non-surgical fibroid treatment options, requiring no incisions, stitches, or extended recovery times. Patients who undergo UFE can typically resume their regular activities within about a week, unlike surgical options such as myomectomy or hysterectomy, which may require several weeks or months for recovery.
UFE works by cutting off the blood supply to the fibroids, causing them to shrink and eventually vanish. This treatment often leads to significant relief from uterine fibroid symptoms within just a few weeks.
At Dallas Fibroid Center, our team of experienced interventional radiologists specialize in performing UFE procedures. Our fibroid doctors have the expertise and skill to ensure a safe and successful treatment, focusing on patient comfort and well-being.
If you have concerns about uterine fibroids, please schedule an evaluation at our fibroid treatment clinic today.
