5 Factors That Put You at Greater Risk of Developing Fibroids

Fibroids are tumors that form in the uterus, and they develop in 70-80% of all women by the time they’re age 50. Even though fibroids aren’t usually cancerous or life-threatening, they can stop you from getting pregnant and cause other health issues, such as heavy menstrual bleeding. Depending on how many fibroids you have and how big they are, they can also cause discomfort.

At Advanced Endometriosis Center in New York City and Hackensack, New Jersey, Ulas Bozdogan, MD, is a fibroid specialist who can determine if you have fibroids and treat them if they’re a cause for concern.

You can have fibroids and not even know it, because not everyone has symptoms. When you visit our practice for your gynecology care, Dr. Bozdogan can determine if fibroids are present and if they need to be removed.

Although the reason fibroids form isn’t completely understood, studies point to five risk factors that can increase your chances of getting them.

1. Age

During your reproductive years, your body produces hormones called estrogen and progesterone, and they create a lining in your uterus during your menstrual cycle, which can promote the development of fibroids.

2. Race

You may have an increased risk of developing fibroids depending on your race. For example, about 80% of black women get fibroids by age 50 as opposed to about 70% of white women. 

3. Obesity

All fat cells produce estrogen, and if you're obese, too much can be produced, which could lead to the development of fibroids.

4. Diet 

Your diet plays a huge role in helping your hormones stay balanced. You could develop fibroids if you eat a lot of red meat and don’t consume enough green vegetables, fruit, and dairy.

5. Alcohol consumption

Drinking alcohol can cause your hormone levels to rise, which can promote the growth of fibroids. Studies show that drinking alcohol daily can increase your chances of developing fibroids by 50%.

Other possible causes include heredity, menstruating at an early age, and not getting enough Vitamin D.

Treating fibroids

Of women who develop fibroids, 20-50% have symptoms. Whether you’re experiencing pelvic pain, abnormal bleeding, or pain during intercourse, our team has the expertise to give you a thorough evaluation and an accurate diagnosis.

You’ll find it comforting to know that the days of needing extreme surgical procedures to remove fibroids are over. Dr. Bozdogan is a highly trained expert in robotic myomectomy, which is minimally invasive surgery. Furthermore, if fibroids are hindering your ability to get pregnant, Dr. Bozdogan can help you, because he also specializes in treating infertility. 

When you visit our practice, your health care is our main concern. We will assess your condition and offer the most conservative approach to treat you.

If you have fibroids and need treatment or want to see if you have them, book an appointment online or over the phone with Advanced Endometriosis Center today.