Why Are Uterine Fibroids Prevalent in Women?

If you ever wonder why uterine fibroids are so common among women, you're not alone. These noncancerous growths in the uterus affect a significant percentage of women, particularly during their reproductive years. The Office of Women’s Health estimates that as many as 80% of women have at least one fibroid by the time they turn 50.

Below, our Fresno Fibroid Center team explains why uterine fibroids are so prevalent in women and what treatments we have for you at our practice here in Fresno, California.

Hormonal factors

Hormonal fluctuations — particularly with estrogen and progesterone — can contribute to the development of fibroids. You need these hormones, but when they’re out of balance, issues can pop up.

Estrogen’s role in fibroid development

This hormone promotes the growth of the uterine lining during your menstrual cycle and can also stimulate the growth of fibroids. High levels of estrogen, especially when combined with low levels of progesterone, can lead to the development and enlargement of fibroids.

Progesterone’s role in fibroid development

This hormone usually works to counterbalance the effects of estrogen by stabilizing the growth of the uterine lining. Sufficient levels of progesterone can help regulate and limit the growth of fibroids. However, if your progesterone levels are low or imbalanced compared to estrogen, it can result in unchecked fibroid growth.

With this in mind, it makes sense why fibroids tend to shrink after menopause when your hormone levels tend to decrease.

Genetic predisposition

You might also be more prone to developing fibroids if they run in your family. If your mother or sister has had fibroids, your chances of developing them are higher. 

Specifically, there are 24 loci (locations in the human genome) where genetic variations can increase your risk of developing fibroids. This genetic link is one reason why fibroids are so common — if it’s in your genes, it’s likely to appear in your life, too.

Lifestyle and diet choices 

Your lifestyle and diet can also influence the development of fibroids. Diets high in red meat and low in green vegetables, fruit, and dairy have been associated with an increased risk of fibroids. 

Being overweight or obese is another risk factor, as excess body fat can lead to higher levels of estrogen, which promotes fibroid growth.

Your age and ethnicity

Fibroids can develop at any age, but they’re most common during your reproductive years, especially between 30 and 50.

African American women are more likely to develop fibroids and often experience them at a younger age and with more severe symptoms compared to women of other ethnicities.

Take charge of your health

Although fibroids are common, that doesn’t mean you have to live with their symptoms like heavy periods, bloating, back pain, constipation, and anemia. Here at Fresno Fibroid Center, we can help you find relief from your fibroids.

Depending on the type of fibroid you have, its size and location, and the severity of your symptoms, our team may recommend uterine fibroid embolization, a less invasive treatment that doesn’t require a lengthy hospital stay.

If you’re one of the millions of women struggling with fibroids, know that help for fibroids is just a call or click away. Call us at  559-216-0746 or click here to get started.