Fibroids are the abnormal muscular growth in the uterus of a female. Uterine fibroids are mostly the non-cancerous tumors that interfere with the reproductive health of a female. Many women deal with this problem of uterine fibroids during their reproductive years.
In many cases of uterine fibroids, the woman may not even know about the condition because of no symptoms. However, the common symptoms associated with uterine fibroids include heavy menstrual flow, pain, and pressure in the pelvis region.
The exact reason behind uterine fibroids is still not confirmed. But there are various related factors behind the increased chances of uterine fibroids. Let’s gain an insight into the common probable causes of uterine fibroids.
Major causes of uterine fibroids
Genetic factors/ Family history
Family history and genetic factors are believed to play a major role in the development of uterine fibroids. Women with a family history of uterine fibroids are at about twice as much risk of developing uterine fibroids than women without a family history of the condition. Genetic factors also contribute to uterine fibroids. In many cases, it has been seen that the fibroids contain genes different from those in the normal uterine muscle cells.
Hormonal imbalance
The ovaries produce the hormones estrogen and progesterone. These hormones are responsible for the regeneration of the uterine lining during every menstrual cycle. Many studies have shown that an imbalance of estrogen and progesterone in the body can trigger the onset of uterine fibroids.
High animal-based protein diet
If your intake of animal-based protein (red meat) is high, it makes you more prone to developing uterine fibroids. According to a recent study, women who eat red meat have almost 70% higher chances of uterine fibroids. Thus you should limit the consumption of animal-based protein and rather switch to plant-based protein.
Vitamin D deficiency
Low levels of vitamin D are associated with a high risk of uterine fibroids. Recent studies have shown that about 80 percent of women with uterine fibroids also had a deficiency of Vitamin D. This correlation has made many specialists believe that reduced levels of Vitamin D can contribute to uterine fibroids. Also, studies estimate that sufficient levels of Vitamin D in the body can reduce the chances of uterine fibroids by about 32 percent.
High blood pressure
High blood pressure contributes significantly to the growth and development of uterine fibroids. This happens because an increased pressure of blood can injure the smooth muscle cells and also increase the release of cytokine, which in turn, increases the risk of uterine fibroids.
Excess body weight or obesity
It is a well-established fact that females who are obese are at higher risks of developing uterine fibroids. It is because the fat cells in a woman’s body are also highly responsible for the secretion of the estrogen. The excess of estrogen hormone in the body triggers the growth of the fibroids in the uterus. Thus, shedding off those extra kilos can save you from the troubles of uterine fibroids.
Pregnancy
During pregnancy, the production of estrogen and progesterone in the body increases. This increase in the hormone levels leads to swelling up of the existing fibroids and can also cause the development of new fibroids. This is due to the fact that fibroid cells are comparatively more receptive to estrogen and progesterone than other uterine muscle cells.
Birth control pills
Birth control pills usually contain the hormones estrogen and progestin. These hormones contribute to the enlargement of the fibroids. Therefore, birth control pills are often associated with the development and growth of uterine fibroids.
How to prevent uterine fibroids?
Although there is no sure way to prevent uterine fibroids, there are certain lifestyle and dietary changes that can help lower the chances of developing them. In case you already have uterine fibroids, these changes can help alleviate the symptoms and discomfort.
The following are some tips and lifestyle changes that can be really effective in the case of uterine fibroids.
Healthy dietary changes
Dietary changes can be really effective in reducing the risk of uterine fibroids. Avoid high-protein and high-calorie foods. Rather, opt for foods rich in flavonoids and fibers as these can lower the risks of uterine fibroids. (Also Read: Best Foods For Uterine Fibroids)
Exercise
Regular exercise helps maintain proper body weight and also keeps the hormonal level in check. Exercising regularly can save you from the troubles of uterine fibroids in the long run.
Yoga
Yoga can prove to be quite effective in improving the condition of uterine fibroids. Some yoga poses like Bharadvajasana, Ardha Matsyendrasana, Supta Baddha Konasana, Paschimottasana, Bhujangasana, etc. are really beneficial for reproductive health and can alleviate the symptoms of uterine fibroids.
Refrain from smoking
Smoking reduces the amount of oxygen reaching your pelvic region and thus can aggravate the pain and symptoms of uterine fibroids. Therefore, to prevent the condition from worsening, quit smoking.
Keep away from alcohol
Alcohol can increase the risk of developing uterine fibroids. Alcohol triggers increased production of hormones and aggravate uterine fibroids. Therefore, try to limit the consumption of alcohol.
Take Away
If you follow the aforementioned tips and incorporate these changes in your lifestyle, you will notice significant improvements within no time.
However, if the symptoms and discomforts keep on bothering you, consult your gynecologist right away so that you can receive proper and timely treatment.
If you are experiencing the pain and troubles associated with uterine fibroids, you can contact Pristyn Care. We will get you in touch with an experienced gynecologist and you can get rid of uterine fibroids without any trouble.
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