Uterine fibroids are medically known as leiomyoma, fibromas, or simply myoma. These are benign tumors that develop in and around the uterus. They can grow as a single tumor, but they may also exist in groups.
Myomas can be as small as an apple seed or as big as a grape fruit. In some rare cases, they even grow as big as a watermelon. The cause of the condition is still unknown.
However, the following are some things that have been linked to their development and growth:
Hormones
Progesterone and estrogen are hormones that stimulate development of the uterine lining, as well as promote the growth of fibroids. Fibroids contain more estrogen and fewer progesterone receptors than normal uterine tissue.
Genetic Changes
Most fibroids contain changes at the genetic level, making them different yet similar to normal cells found in the uterine muscles. Malignant growths (cancer) also develop due to genetic errors.
Extracellular Matrix (ECM)
The ECM is responsible for making cells stick together. In fibroids, this collection of molecules is seen in greater amounts. There are also stored growth factors in the ECM, further causing biologic changes.
Growth Factors
Substances that help the body maintain its tissues can affect fibroid development. These include insulin-like growth factor, transforming growth factor beta, and epidermal growth factor.
Who are More Likely to Develop Fibroids?
While typically harmless, fibroids may still be a cause of concern—especially given the possibility of it causing pain and bleeding. If you’re worried, however, know that your chances of developing these benign uterine tumors depend on a number of factors, such as:
Family History
If you have a family member who had or has fibroids, this increases your risk of developing one. If a mother is the one who had fibroids, the risk of her daughters is three times greater.
Obesity
Women who are overweight are at a higher risk of developing fibroids. For women who are obese, the chance of developing myoma is two times higher.
Age
As women age, fibroids become more common. This is most especially during their 30s and 40s, up through the menopausal age. The fibroids usually shrink after menopause though.
Ethnic Origin
It’s true that African-American women are more likely to develop fibroids. This is because they tend to have higher levels of estrogen compared to white women.
Eating Habits
Processed food, particularly meats, are linked to higher risks of fibroids. Likewise, if you eat a lot of red meat, then you are more likely to develop fibroids.
Pregnancy
Pregnant women face greater chances of developing fibroids. This is because pregnancy increases the production of estrogen and progesterone in the body. Fibroids may also grow or develop rapidly during the pregnancy, but usually shrink and eventually dissolve afterwards.
On the Topic of Fibroid Prevention
Making healthy lifestyle changes can help prevent certain conditions. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle includes staying within normal weight and eating nutritionally balanced food.
Since the cause of fibroid remains unclear, however, there are no known preventive measures specifically developed for the condition. Nonetheless, being physically fit and having a proper diet may still help with prevention.
Do note as well that taking hormonal contraceptives can lower the risk of fibroids. But, this is something that you will have to discuss with your physician.
What’s most important though is early detection. This is to avoid having further complications such as painful menstruation, infections, and lack of libido.
All in all, myomas are non-cancerous tumors but they can affect one’s life. If you feel like you have fibroids, don’t hesitate to seek medical help.
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