Will I Gain Weight If Fibroids Increase In Size

It is common for uterine fibroids to grow in size during a woman’s reproductive years. Though most women do not gain weight as a result of fibroids, some factors can indirectly lead to weight gain.

American Fibroid Centers helps women through fibroid pain relief and management. We specialize in a minimally invasive procedure called UFE (uterine fibroid embolization) and have helped countless women in Queens, Fishkill, Harlem, and Brooklyn, NY, as well as West Orange, NJ, and Cincinnati, OH, take control of their health.

Below, we explore the correlation between fibroid growth and weight. We also provide tips on how to maintain a healthy weight through diet if you have fibroids.

How big are fibroids?

Fibroids are benign or noncancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus. They vary significantly in size; some women have small tumors that cannot be seen or felt, while others have fibroids that grow to the size of a baseball.

Fibroids usually develop slowly and can remain the same size for years, but they can also grow quickly. Large fibroids are known to cause heaviness in the pelvic area, pain during intercourse, heavy bleeding, and difficulty emptying the bladder.

Do fibroids cause weight gain?

On rare occasions, large fibroids can weigh several pounds and distort the uterus, so it is the size of a five- or six-month pregnancy. Women with these extremely large fibroids may have significant weight gain.

Fibroids can also cause weight gain indirectly. For example, those who experience consistent pain and heavy bleeding may become less active due to their discomfort, leading to weight gain over time.

How to avoid weight gain through diet

There are several ways women in Queens, Fishkill, Harlem, Brooklyn, West Orange, NJ, or Cincinnati, OH can manage their weight if they have fibroids. Try these tips if you struggle with weight gain:

• Eat more fiber: A diet rich in fiber and potassium may slow the growth of fibroids, according to some studies. Fruits, vegetables, bananas, and avocados are a great place to start.
• Avoid red meat: Red meats and pork tend to release estrogen into the body, which helps fibroids grow. Lean proteins like chicken and fish are far better options.
• Exercise: Adults should get at least 150 minutes of physical activity per week, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If you have fibroids, you may need to find an exercise that is right for you and won’t cause any extra discomfort. Examples include yoga, walking, light jogging, and weight-resistance training.

Always consult with a healthcare professional to develop the best dietary plan for your needs. Only they can properly assess your individual health situation and make tailored recommendations.

About UFE

Uterine fibroid embolization is a minimally invasive way to shrink fibroids, so they are no longer a problem. It involves the placement of a catheter into the artery that supplies blood to the uterus. We then deliver tiny particles that block the blood flow to the fibroids. This outpatient procedure does not require invasive measures and has a high success rate in relieving fibroid symptoms.

UFE is a safe treatment option for fibroids and has been shown to improve symptoms such as pain, heavy bleeding, and pressure or urinary frequency. It also preserves the uterus and prevents the need for lengthy hospital stays.

Avoid weight gain with UFE

Fibroids may not cause significant weight gain, but diet and lifestyle choices can help manage weight if you have fibroids. If you live in Queens, Fishkill, Harlem, Brooklyn, West Orange, NJ, or Cincinnati, OH, and have fibroid symptoms, the team at American Fibroid Centers can help. Our specialists are happy to explore treatment options like uterine fibroid embolization and get you on the path to fibroid pain relief.