What Causes Fibroids?
The exact cause of uterine fibroids remains unknown, but hormones, genetics and other biological factors are believed to contribute to their development. Understanding the causes and risk factors can help women recognise symptoms and seek appropriate medical assessment.
While doctors still don’t know the cause of uterine fibroids, research and clinical experience point to the following factors:
- Genetic changes: Many fibroids contain changes in genes that differ from those in normal uterine muscle cells. There’s also some evidence that fibroids run in families and that identical twins are more likely to both have fibroids than nonidentical twins
- Hormones: Estrogen and progesterone, two hormones that stimulate development of the uterine lining during each menstrual cycle in preparation for pregnancy, appear to promote the growth of fibroids. Fibroids contain more estrogen and progesterone receptors than normal uterine muscle cells do. Fibroids tend to shrink after menopause due to a decrease in hormone production.
- Other growth factors: Substances that help the body maintain tissues, such as insulin-like growth factor, may affect fibroid growth. Fibroid growth has not been linked to diet.
Although researchers continue to study the causes of fibroid tumors, little scientific evidence is available on how to prevent them. Preventing uterine fibroids may not be possible, but only a small percentage of these growths require treatment.
Uterine Fibroid Embolisation
Thanks to very advanced modern day methods that have given hope to many African women, uterine fibroids can be treated with a minimally invasive fibroids treatment procedure, carried out under local anesthetic whereby very tiny particles are injected into the blood vessels that feed the fibroid, blocking the blood supply to it and therefore “starving” it of oxygen and nourishment – it shrinks and disappears and the fibroid symptoms disappear and do not recur.
Another positive side to this procedure is that most patients go home within 24 hrs and can return to their normal activities in a few days.
The right procedure for you, the patient, must be decided by you in consultation with your doctor. Having the right information about all the options available will make this decision far easier.
FAQs
Who is more likely to develop fibroids?
Women with a family history of fibroids, those of reproductive age and women with certain hormonal risk factors are more likely to develop them.
Can fibroids be prevented?
There is no guaranteed way to prevent fibroids, although maintaining overall health may help reduce certain risk factors.
Are fibroids hereditary?
Yes. A family history of fibroids can increase your likelihood of developing them.
Need Information on Fibroids Treatment?
At Fibroid Care, we specialise in uterine fibroid embolisation(UFE), a safe minimally invasive alternative to surgery.
We are available to guide you through the process, answer your questions and help you make an informed decision.
Reach out to today for expert advice, or book a consultation to discuss the symptoms and treatment in more detail.