According to the National Library of Medicine, fibroid tumors are very common and occur in one in every five women. The cause of fibroid tumors is a relative mystery, but there are some theories as to what causes this condition. Possibilities range from estrogen levels to chemicals in the foods we eat. Every woman should be aware of the possible causes of this condition.
Estrogen
Hormones are thought to be one of the top causes of fibroids. Fibroid tumors commonly occur in women taking birth control, which contains estrogen. These tumors have been known to grow even larger if the woman becomes pregnant due to the increased amount of estrogen that is created during pregnancy. Once the baby is delivered, the tumor normally shrinks as the estrogen levels return to normal.
Age
Age is also believed to be a possible cause of fibroids. Fibroids commonly affect women who are 30 and older and have not gone through menopause. They are rarely found in women and girls that are 20 and younger. The cause could be that women in their 30s have higher amounts of estrogen compared to younger women and girls who have just started menstruation.
Genetics
Research has revealed that genetics may play a part in the risk of fibroids. Fibroids commonly re-occur in families. According to the Mayo Clinic, fibroids (which are made up of cells) contain a genetic code which may cause the uterine muscle cells to form incorrectly. Some fibroids can start off so small that you will need to use a microscope to see them. However, they can grow to weigh several pounds and cause substantial discomfort to the woman.
Race
The National Library of Medicine reports that black women are more commonly affected by fibroids as compared to white women. It is currently unknown why black women are more susceptible. Unfortunately, the problem of fibroids has no real cure and leads many women to have a hysterectomy. In fact, The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality reports fibroids are a common cause of a hysterectomy.
Xenoestrogen
Fibroids may also be caused by the foods we eat. Xenoestrogens are industrial-made compounds that can be present in the environment. Animals such as fish, poultry and cows may eat food that is tainted with these compounds. In addition, xenoestrogens can get on fruits and vegetables on farms and gardens. People unknowingly eat foods that are tainted with these compounds. It is believed that xenoestrogen acts as a boost to a woman’s normal estrogen levels thus causing an increased risk for developing fibroids.
Sources:
The Mayo Clinic; Uterine Fibroids; 2009; http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/uterine-fibroids/DS00078
National Library of Medicine; Uterine Fibroids; 2009; http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000914.htm
Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality; Management of Uterine Fibroids; 2009; http://www.ahrq.gov/Clinic/epcsums/utersumm.htm
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