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Check your symptomsFibroids – What They Are and Common Misconceptions
July 1, 2023
In this post, we’ll explore what fibroids are, their causes, and some common misconceptions surrounding them.
What are fibroids? Fibroids, also known as uterine leiomyomas, are noncancerous growths that develop in the uterus.
They are made up of muscle tissue and typically vary in size and location within the uterus.
Fibroids are quite common, affecting many women during their reproductive years.
In fact, research suggests that up to 70% of women may develop fibroids at some point in their lives.
Now, let’s discuss some of the causes of fibroids.
Although the exact cause of fibroids is still unknown, several factors may contribute to their development.
Hormones, particularly estrogen and progesterone, play a significant role. Genetic predisposition and family history can also increase the likelihood of developing fibroids.
Additionally, certain lifestyle factors, such as obesity and diet, may influence their growth.
Unfortunately, there are some misconceptions surrounding fibroids that we should address.
Misconception #1
Fibroids are always cancerous.
This is false. Fibroids are almost always benign, meaning they are noncancerous. However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional if you experience any symptoms or concerns.
Misconception #2
Fibroids can turn into cancer.
While fibroids themselves do not turn into cancer, it is possible to have both fibroids and cancerous growths in the uterus simultaneously. That’s why proper medical evaluation is crucial for accurate diagnosis.
Misconception #3
Only older women develop fibroids.
Actually, fibroids can develop at any age, but they are most common during the reproductive years, typically between the ages of 30 and 50.
Misconception #4
Fibroids always cause symptoms.
Many women with fibroids experience no symptoms at all. However, when symptoms do occur, they can include heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, frequent urination, and reproductive issues.
It’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional if you suspect you have fibroids or experience any related symptoms.
To recap, fibroids are noncancerous growths in the uterus that commonly affect women during their reproductive years. Hormonal factors, genetics, and lifestyle may contribute to their development.
And finally, it’s important to address common misconceptions such as fibroids being cancerous or only affecting older women.
Hopefully, this post has provided you with valuable information about fibroids and helped dispel some misconceptions.
Remember, knowledge and awareness are key to making informed decisions about your health.
More Reading
Editing by AskAwayHealth Team
Disclaimer
All AskAwayHealth articles are written by practising Medical Practitioners to help promote quality healthcare. The advice in our material is not meant to replace a qualified healthcare practitioner’s management of your specific condition.
Please get in touch with a health practitioner to discuss your condition, or reach us directly here.
Image Credits: Canva
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