Fibroid Risk Factors



There are a number of fibroid risk factors which, when present, can increase your chances of developing uterine fibroids.  Since the absolute and definitive cause of this condition cannot be identified in each individual, it can be difficult to prove which women are most at risk.  However, what we can say is that statistically, women in the following groups seem to have a higher chance of having fibroids.

  • Women who are carrying excessive weight
  • Women who eat a lot of red meat (especially fatty meats)
  • Women who begin menstruating at an earlier than average age
  • African women
  • Risk factors increase with age.  40% of women will have fibroids by the age of 40 (these may of course be small and symptom-free) whereas 70-80% of women in their 50's before the menopause will have developed fibroids
  • Women who eat few vegetables
  • Those with a close female relative with the condition
  • Women who have never been pregnant. Those who have four or more children have a  much lower risk of developing uterine fibroids
  • Women with higher levels of estrogen and/or progesterone
Lifestyle issues can also increase your risk.  For example, if you have stress which has been caused by lack of sleep, anxiety, emotional problems or the stresses of your daily life, this can cause disruption of your immune system and hormones as well as raised blood sugar levels.

Certain drugs, such as the birth control pill can stop the normal functioning of the ovaries. whereas prescription drugs have been known to affect the working of the hypothalmus, thereby disrupting the menstrual cycle.

It would seem likely that although a woman's risk of developing fibroids can be increased by the above, it is likely to be a combination of factors rather than one single issue which has caused fibroids to grow. Many alternative practitioners believe that it is likely to be a subtle "blend" of contributory causes, including genetic predisposition,  which triggers the growth of fibroids.

Although some of the above factors are virtually impossible to "reverse" or alter, taking positive steps wherever possible is certainly thought to help.  For example, increasing your intake of vegetables and decreasing the amount of red meat you consume  are worthwhile steps.  Additionally, taking control of any weight issues by following a healthy, calorie controlled diet  and taking regular exercise can also help to reduce your fibroid risk factors and help towards shrinking existing fibroids.