Fibroid tumors of the uterus are benign growths in the uterus that rarely pose any serious health issues. As many as three of four women will experience fibroids at some point in their lifetimes, according to MayoClinic.com. Complications of fibroids include vaginal bleeding, pain in the pelvic region and certain problems during pregnancy. Women concerned with uterine fibroids should consult a physician to learn how to best treat complications associated with fibroids.
Age
Uterine fibroid tumors rarely affect women in their 20s. MedlinePlus explains that uterine fibroid tumors are most likely to develop in women over the age of 30 and can continue to form until menopause. During menopause, fibroids typically shrink and no longer cause any symptoms characteristic of the tumors.
Heredity and Genetics
There is a strong genetic component to fibroids, as women with fibroid tumors tend to have mothers, daughters and other family members with fibroids. MayoClinic.com explains that uterine fibroid tumor cells often have genetic changes that may cause certain uterine cells to turn into more muscle-like cells.
Race
For reasons not understood, black women are more likely to have uterine fibroid tumors than women of other races. MayoClinic.com explains that black women are also more likely to develop uterine fibroid tumors at a younger age compared to other women.
Hormones
The hormones estrogen and progesterone stimulate the uterine wall to prepare for pregnancy, and also have a role in promoting fibroid growth. Fibroid tumor cells contain more estrogen and estrogen receptors compared to normal uterine muscle cells, according to MayoClinic.com.
Chemicals
Exposure to certain chemicals and hormones can also promote the growth of fibroids. Substances that help body tissues maintain themselves, such as insulin-like growth factor, can also increase fibroid growth. Certain pesticides and herbicides can also change estrogen levels in the body, and may lead to fibroid formation, according to the Physician's Desk Reference at PDRHealth.com.
Being Overweight
A number of studies suggest that being overweight increases the risk of developing uterine fibroid tumors. The Merck Manual of Gynecology and Obstetrics at Merck.com explains that fibroid tumors are more common in women with a high body mass index.
