uterine fibroids-causes and symptoms in 2024

Uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomas or myomas, are noncancerous growths of the uterus that often appear during childbearing years. Here’s a detailed look at their causes and symptoms:
Causes
The exact cause of uterine fibroids is unknown, but several factors may influence their development:
Genetic Changes: Many fibroids contain genetic alterations that differ from those in normal uterine muscle cells.
Hormones: Estrogen and progesterone, two hormones that stimulate the development of the uterine lining during each menstrual cycle, appear to promote the growth of fibroids. Fibroids contain more estrogen and progesterone receptors than normal uterine muscle cells do.
Growth Factors: Substances that help the body maintain tissues, such as insulin-like growth factor, may affect fibroid growth.
Extracellular Matrix (ECM): ECM makes cells stick together, like mortar between bricks. Fibroids have more ECM than normal cells, which makes them fibrous. ECM also stores growth factors and causes biological changes in the cells themselves.
Symptoms
Many women with fibroids have no symptoms, while others experience severe symptoms. The presence of symptoms can depend on the number, size, and location of the fibroids. Common symptoms include:
Heavy Menstrual Bleeding: Prolonged periods and significant blood loss can lead to anemia.
Pelvic Pain and Pressure: Fibroids can cause persistent pelvic pain, pressure, and a feeling of fullness in the lower abdomen.
Frequent Urination: A fibroid pressing on the bladder can cause frequent urination.
Difficulty Emptying the Bladder: Pressure on the bladder can also make it hard to completely empty the bladder.
Constipation: Pressure on the rectum can cause constipation.
Backache or Leg Pains: Fibroids pressing on nerves can cause pain in the back or legs.
Pain During Intercourse: Some women experience pain during sexual intercourse.
Enlarged Abdomen: Large fibroids can cause the uterus to expand, making the abdomen appear swollen or enlarged.
Risk Factors
Certain factors can increase the likelihood of developing fibroids:
Age: Fibroids are more common as women age, especially during their 30s and 40s through menopause. After menopause, fibroids usually shrink.
Family History: If a woman's mother or sister had fibroids, she is at increased risk of developing them.
Ethnic Origin: Black women are more likely to develop fibroids than women of other racial groups. Additionally, black women have fibroids at a younger age, and they’re also likely to have more or larger fibroids.
Obesity: Being overweight increases the risk of fibroids. Women who are very obese are at a higher risk.
Diet: Eating a lot of red meat (e.g., beef, ham) is linked with a higher risk of fibroids, while eating plenty of green vegetables seems to protect women from developing fibroids.
If you suspect you have fibroids or are experiencing symptoms, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.