Uterine Fibroid Risk Factors

Are you at risk for having uterine fibroids?

If you’re at risk for developing uterine fibroids, take comfort in the fact that you’re not the only one. About 40% of women will have or have had a uterine fibroid by age 60. If your mother, sister, or aunt has had them, your risk goes up even more. These benign tumors grow in the uterus and can cause bleeding, pain, and infertility if they are too big. However, there are ways to reduce your risk and decrease their impact if you do get them. Use this quick and easy guide to shed light on any uterine fibroid risk factors you may have.

Typical risk factors for uterine fibroids

There are several risk factors that can trigger the onset of uterine fibroids, and the following are the most common.

• Medical conditions: Women who have a condition that affects their hormones, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), have a higher chance of having fibroids. Research suggests that women with diabetes and hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid) may also be more likely to get fibroids. But in most cases, the link is unclear. Still, it’s important to let us know if you have any of these conditions, especially if you are in your 30s and want to start a family soon.
• Obesity: Women who are obese tend to have more uterine fibroids than women of a healthy weight. This could be because overweight or obese women may have higher levels of estrogen, which stimulates the growth of fibroids. Research suggests that losing just 5-10% of your body weight could reduce your risk
• Genetics: If your mother, sister, or aunt has had fibroids, your risk of developing them goes up. This could be because you inherited certain genes from them.
• Age: The older you are, the more likely you are to get fibroids. Most women start getting fibroids in their 30s and 40s, although they can start as young as during puberty or middle age.

If you can relate to one or more the risk factors above, get in touch with our doctors today to discuss uterine fibroids by using this contact form. You also may be able to reduce your risk by making healthy lifestyle choices such as eating a proper diet, getting regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight. Bookmark this website because we’re always adding new articles and insight for fibroids and other vascular conditions to keep readers in the know.