Genetic Factors
Uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomas, are benign tumors that develop within the uterus. These growths are often asymptomatic, and researchers have yet to fully understand the underlying reasons for their occurrence. However, it is widely believed that heredity plays a significant role in the development of fibroids across generations. Statistically, fibroids affect approximately 70-80% of women by the age of fifty. It is important to note that the size of these tumors can vary significantly, ranging from tiny nodules measuring just a few millimeters to significantly larger masses.
Estrogen Hormone
The precise cause of fibroid formation remains unknown, but there is a correlation between estrogen levels and the growth of these tumors. Fibroids predominantly appear in women during their reproductive years, typically between the ages of sixteen and fifty, when estrogen levels are at their peak. Notably, these tumors often regress following menopause, coinciding with a decline in reproductive hormones, particularly estrogen.
Other Causes and Risk Factors for Fibroids
Numerous factors may contribute to the development of uterine fibroids. Some key elements that increase the likelihood of fibroid formation include:
- Utilization of hormonal birth control methods.
- Excess body weight.
- Early onset of menstruation, which refers to the commencement of menstruation at a young age.
- Deficiency in vitamin D.
- Following a diet high in red meats and low in fruits, vegetables, and dairy products.
- Exposure to substances that help the body maintain tissue, such as insulin-like growth factor, which may play a role in fibroid development.
- Late pregnancies; having children later in life can increase the risk of fibroid growth.