What Causes Fibroids to Grow?

Hormonal Influence: Estrogen and Progesterone

Hormonal imbalance, particularly in relation to estrogen and progesterone, plays a significant role in the growth of fibroids. These hormones, which regulate the menstrual cycle, can stimulate the growth of fibroid tissue. Here’s how each contributes:

• Estrogen: During the reproductive years, estrogen levels are high, which often coincides with fibroid development. Estrogen stimulates the growth of uterine lining, and similarly, it can cause fibroid cells to multiply. This is why fibroids often grow larger during pregnancy when estrogen levels surge.
• Progesterone: Like estrogen, progesterone also promotes fibroid growth. Both hormones create an environment in the uterus conducive to fibroid development by encouraging cell proliferation.

Women going through menopause often notice a decrease in fibroid size as estrogen levels naturally decline, which explains why fibroids tend to shrink or cause fewer symptoms during this phase.

Genetic Factors and Family History

Genetic predisposition is another crucial factor in the development of fibroids. If a woman’s mother, sister, or grandmother had fibroids, the likelihood of developing them increases. Specific genetic mutations have been identified that are associated with fibroid growth, although the exact inheritance patterns are still being studied. The presence of fibroids in multiple family members suggests a hereditary link.

Age and Reproductive History

Fibroids are most common in women of reproductive age, particularly between the ages of 30 and 50. This period coincides with higher hormone levels. Younger women, particularly those who have not had children, may be more prone to larger or more rapidly growing fibroids. The hormonal shifts during pregnancy also contribute to fibroid growth, often making them more prominent during this time.

Ethnicity

Research shows that fibroids are more common in African American women, who are also more likely to develop them at a younger age and experience more severe symptoms. While the exact reasons for this disparity are unclear, it’s believed that genetic and environmental factors play a role.

Obesity and Body Weight

Higher body weight and obesity have been linked to increased fibroid growth. Fat cells produce estrogen, and women who are overweight or obese may have higher circulating estrogen levels, which can stimulate fibroid growth. Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise may help manage fibroid size and associated symptoms.

Diet and Lifestyle Factors

Certain dietary patterns and lifestyle choices can contribute to the risk of fibroid growth:

• High-fat diets: Diets rich in red meat and high-fat foods have been associated with an increased risk of fibroid development. Conversely, diets high in green vegetables, fruits, and fish are linked to a lower risk of fibroids.
• Vitamin D Deficiency: Vitamin D plays a role in controlling cell growth. Low levels of vitamin D have been associated with a higher likelihood of fibroid growth. Since this vitamin is essential for cellular health, maintaining adequate levels may reduce the risk of fibroids becoming larger.
• Alcohol and Caffeine Consumption: Studies suggest that alcohol and caffeine intake may increase fibroid risk. Alcohol can elevate estrogen levels, which may, in turn, stimulate fibroid growth. Moderating alcohol and caffeine consumption is advised for those looking to minimize the growth of fibroids.

Pregnancy

Pregnancy can significantly influence fibroid growth due to the increased levels of estrogen and progesterone that support fetal development. Some women report a marked growth in fibroids during pregnancy, leading to more pronounced symptoms such as pain, pressure, and, in some cases, complications during delivery. However, after pregnancy, fibroids may shrink due to hormonal changes post-delivery.

Environmental Factors and Endocrine Disruptors

Environmental factors, particularly exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), are believed to contribute to fibroid growth. EDCs are chemicals that interfere with hormone regulation in the body, mimicking the effects of estrogen. They can be found in everyday products like plastics, cosmetics, and pesticides. Prolonged exposure to these chemicals may lead to hormonal imbalances, increasing the likelihood of fibroid growth.

Inflammation and Immune Response

Chronic inflammation in the body may also play a role in fibroid development. Some studies have suggested that elevated levels of inflammation in the uterus can contribute to the growth of fibroids. Women with autoimmune conditions or other chronic inflammatory diseases might be more prone to fibroids.

Dietary changes that reduce inflammation, such as incorporating anti-inflammatory foods (e.g., leafy greens, omega-3 fatty acids, and berries), may help manage fibroid growth.

Growth Factors and Cellular Pathways

Certain growth factors in the body, including insulin-like growth factors (IGFs), have been linked to fibroid growth. These factors regulate various cellular activities, such as tissue repair and cell growth. An imbalance in growth factors could stimulate abnormal cell proliferation within the uterine muscle, contributing to fibroid enlargement.

The Role of Blood Supply

Fibroids rely on a blood supply to grow. As fibroids enlarge, they develop their own network of blood vessels to sustain their growth. The availability of nutrients and oxygen delivered through this blood supply enables fibroids to thrive and increase in size. In some cases, treatments aimed at cutting off the blood supply to fibroids, such as uterine artery embolization (UAE), are used to shrink them.

Managing Fibroid Growth

While it may not be possible to prevent fibroids altogether, there are ways to manage their growth. Understanding the factors that contribute to fibroid development can help in making informed decisions about treatment options. For instance, maintaining a healthy weight, adopting a balanced diet rich in vitamins, reducing exposure to environmental toxins, and managing hormone levels through medication or other therapies may all help control the size of fibroids.

Minimally Invasive Options

When fibroids grow and cause discomfort or other health complications, medical intervention may be necessary. Treatment options vary depending on the size, location, and symptoms caused by the fibroids. Among the options, procedures like uterine artery embolization (UAE) or MRI-guided focused ultrasound surgery (MRgFUS) can shrink fibroids by reducing their blood supply. 

Reach out today 

Fibroid growth is influenced by a variety of factors, ranging from hormonal imbalances to genetic predispositions and environmental exposures. While the causes of fibroids are multifactorial, understanding these influences can help women make informed decisions about their health. Monitoring fibroid size, managing symptoms, and seeking timely medical advice are essential steps in addressing fibroids effectively.

If you have concerns about fibroids, their size, or the associated symptoms, don’t hesitate to reach out to Preferred Fibroid. Our team of experts specializes in fibroid diagnosis and treatment, offering personalized solutions to help you regain your health and well-being. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a healthier, fibroid-free life.