Uterine fibroids are a common medical condition in women. According to the National Women's Health Information Center, 20 to 80 percent of women under the age of 50 will have uterine fibroids. Most women actually do not develop symptoms and are not even aware of their presence. Although there are several known risk factors for fibroids, caffeine has not been shown to increase the risk of fibroids.
Uterine Fibroids
Uterine fibroids, or leiomyomas, are benign tumors of the muscular wall of the uterus. One or many tumors may be present, and they can vary in size from an apple seed up to the size of a grapefruit. Uterine fibroids may rarely transform into a type of cancerous fibroid called a leiomyosarcoma.
Symptoms
Although fibroids typically do not cause any symptoms, women may experience heavy periods, periods that are longer than normal, pelvic pain, lower back pain, swelling of the abdomen, constipation, urinary incontinence, a need to urinate more often and pain during intercourse. See your physician if you are experiencing any of these symptoms.
Studies
A study published in 2004 in "Human Production" discovered that the consumption of caffeine was not associated with an increase in the risk of uterine fibroids. The researchers sought to determine the effect of tobacco, alcohol and caffeine on the formation of fibroids. The study followed 21,885 African American women and found that only alcohol increased the risk of development. The risk was correlated to the amount of alcohol consumed and the number of years of consumption.
Risk Factors
It is not known exactly what causes uterine fibroids; however, there are several things known to increase the risk of fibroids. According to the Center for Uterine Fibroids at Brigham and Women's Hospital, African Americans have a two to five times greater risk of developing fibroids than Caucasians, and also usually develop symptoms at a younger age. Most women develop symptoms between the ages of 35 and 50. Obese women are two to three times more likely to develop fibroids and women with a family history of fibroids are three times more likely, reports the National Women's Health Information Center. Eating red meats, such as beef, and ham may also increase your risk. Asian women are less likely to develop symptomatic fibroids. Women who smoke and have had children also have a lower risk.
Theories on Fibroid Formation
Researchers at the Center for Uterine Fibroids at Brigham and Women's Hospital believe that uterine fibroids may form from a constellation of several factors including estrogen, progesterone, prolactin, growth hormone, growth factors, as well as certain risk factors. We do know that high levels of estrogen and progesterone promote the growth of fibroids, and low levels cause fibroids to shrink. More research is needed in these areas to determine the exact cause.
Prevention
Although it may not be possible to prevent fibroids, the National Uterine Fibroid Foundation notes that certain foods may decrease your risk of uterine fibroids, including fish, green vegetables and fruit.
Member Comments