/assets/images/provider/photos/2648219.jpg)
Navigating the world of women’s health can often feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to conditions like fibroids. These non-cancerous growths in the uterus can cause a range of discomforts and complications, affecting a woman’s daily life and even fertility.
At Cornforth Gynecology and Med Spa, we prioritize educating our patients to support their overall health, including potential risks and protective measures concerning fibroids. To better understand your own risk, let’s examine the key factors that may increase the likelihood of developing fibroids.
Fibroids overview
Fibroids can range in size from very small, barely visible to the human eye, to bulky masses that can enlarge and distort the uterus.
It’s not uncommon for a woman to have multiple fibroids simultaneously. In some instances, they can become quite large and cause the uterus to expand to the size of a pregnancy in its fifth month.
As far as symptoms go, they can vary widely depending on the size, location, and number of fibroids. Some women may not experience any noticeable symptoms, while others might grapple with heavy or painful periods, bleeding between periods, pelvic pain or pressure, frequent urination, difficulty emptying the bladder, constipation, or pain in the back or legs.
In some severe cases, fibroids can cause complications during pregnancy and labor or even lead to infertility. Getting a timely diagnosis and proper treatment is crucial if you suspect you have fibroids or are experiencing any related symptoms.
1. Age
The risk of developing fibroids significantly increases as a woman ages, particularly during her childbearing years. Fibroids rarely occur in young girls and are most common in women in their 30s and 40s.
2. Family history
Like many health conditions, family history plays a substantial role. If your mother, sister, or grandmother has had fibroids, your risk is significantly higher than someone without this family history.
3. Hormones
The hormones estrogen and progesterone, responsible for the regeneration of the uterine lining during each menstrual cycle, appear to promote the growth of fibroids. Women with high levels of these hormones may be at a higher risk.
4. Obesity
Studies have shown that women who are overweight are 2-3 times more likely to develop fibroids. This may be related to the higher estrogen levels produced by fat cells.
5. Ethnicity
Women of African-American ancestry are at a higher risk of fibroids than women of other ethnicities. In addition, African-American women tend to develop fibroids at younger ages and are also likely to have more or larger fibroids.
At Cornforth Gynecology and Med Spa, we’re dedicated to delivering comprehensive care to all our patients. Understanding your personal risk factors for fibroids is a crucial step toward proactive health management.
While you can’t control some risk factors like age or family history, others, like maintaining a healthy weight, are manageable. If you fall into any of the above categories, discuss it with a Cornforth Gynecology and Med Spa provider who can guide you on appropriate steps toward prevention or treatment.
Take control of your health today by contacting Cornforth Gynecology and Med Spa. We’re here to support your journey toward optimal wellness, providing quality care that puts your needs first. Call or book online today.