Fibroids are the abnormal noncancerous growth that develops in a woman’s uterus. These tumors can become quite large and cause severe abdominal pain and heavy periods. Fibroids have a lower risk of developing cancer as they are typically benign. Schedule an appointment with the best GYN in East New York at Doral Health and Wellness – Women’s Health Center.
Fibroids are also known as myomas, and fibromas. Although most women don’t have any symptoms and may never know they have fibroids, about 80% of these women have them by the age of 50.
Causes of Uterine Fibroids
Although the exact cause of fibroids is still unknown, medical experts have identified several contributing factors that may influence their development and growth. Understanding these can help women take a more proactive approach to their reproductive health.
Hormones – Estrogen and progesterone, the two hormones produced by the ovaries, play a key role in stimulating the development of the uterine lining during each menstrual cycle. These same hormones are believed to promote the growth of fibroids. In fact, fibroids tend to shrink after menopause when hormone levels decline.
Pregnancy – During pregnancy, the body produces more estrogen and progesterone, which can cause fibroids to develop and grow more rapidly. In many cases, fibroids are discovered during routine prenatal ultrasounds.
Genetics – Family history matters. If your mother, sister, or grandmother had fibroids, your chances of developing them increase significantly. This suggests a strong genetic component to fibroid growth.
Age and Race – Fibroids are most commonly diagnosed in women in their 30s and 40s, but they can occur at any reproductive age. Studies show that African American women are more likely to develop fibroids and at a younger age, often with more severe symptoms.
Lifestyle and Diet – A diet high in red meat and low in green vegetables, fruit, and dairy has been linked to a greater risk of fibroids. Obesity and high blood pressure may also increase the likelihood of fibroid development.
Other Health Conditions – Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, or thyroid issues may influence hormonal balance and indirectly contribute to fibroid formation.
Symptoms of Fibroids
The symptoms will depend largely on the size, number, and location of the tumors within the uterus. While some women may have no symptoms at all, others may experience a range of signs that can disrupt their daily lives and overall well-being. Common symptoms include:
Heavy bleeding between or during your period – One of the most common symptoms, this can lead to anemia and extreme fatigue over time.
Pelvic pain or pressure – This discomfort may feel like a constant heaviness or a sharp pain in the lower abdomen or pelvis.
Severe menstrual cramps – Fibroids can intensify cramping during menstruation, making periods significantly more painful than usual.
Frequent urination – Large fibroids may press on the bladder, causing the need to urinate more often or even urinary urgency.
Pain during intercourse – Depending on their location, fibroids can cause discomfort or pain during sexual activity.
Prolonged menstrual periods – Periods lasting longer than 7 days may be a sign of fibroid-related complications.
Abdominal swelling or bloating – Large fibroids can make the lower abdomen appear enlarged, sometimes mistaken for weight gain or pregnancy.
Constipation or difficulty with bowel movements – If fibroids press on the rectum, they can interfere with normal digestive function.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult a gynecologist for an accurate diagnosis and proper treatment.
If you are going through menopause, you might have fibroids but don’t have the symptoms. These are due to the shrinking of fibroids during and after menopause. Women going through menopause experience a drop in estrogen and progesterone levels in their bodies, stimulating the growth of fibroids.
Fibroids are diagnosed by a gynecologist through a series of tests like pelvic exams and ultrasound. These exams will determine the size, condition, and shape of your uterus. An ultrasound will allow the doctor to see and check the internal structure of your uterus and any fibroids present.
Once your doctors have a proper diagnosis, they will develop a treatment plan based on the findings (size and location of the fibroids), your age, and the overall condition of your health.
Although there are home remedies and natural treatments that could have a positive effect on the fibroids, like yoga, massage, and heat compressing during the menstrual period. Diet can have a positive effect as well. Avoiding stress, regulating your diet, and losing weight can help women with fibroids. Your doctor could also prescribe you medication to regulate your hormone level to shrink the fibroids.
For a proper diagnosis, please consult a gynecologist. At Doral Health and Wellness, our gynecologist can help diagnose and treat fibroids. To book an appointment, please visit or call 718-DORAL-55. We have the best GYN doctor in East New York, and we provide women with quality healthcare services. To schedule an appointment, you can visit us at 1797 Pitkin Avenue, Brooklyn, New York 11212, or call us on 1-347-384-5690 or 1-347-955-3465. You can also visit our website at at Women’s Health – Doral Health & Wellness Brooklyn NY
