Quelles sont les causes de la croissance des fibromes utérins ?

Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths that form in or on the uterus, affecting up to 70-80% of women by the age of 50. While many fibroids are small and asymptomatic, others can grow large and cause heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, urinary issues, and even fertility problems. One of the most commonly asked questions is: What causes uterine fibroids to grow, and why do some grow more rapidly than others?

American Fibroids Centers, specializing in fibroid treatment through uterine fibroid embolization (UFE), understands the importance of this question in helping patients take control of their health. In this blog, we’ll explore the factors that drive fibroid growth, including biological causes, hormonal factors, and lifestyle-related risk factors that may contribute to a sudden increase in size.

What are Uterine Fibroids?

Uterine fibroids, also called leiomyomas or myomas, are made up of smooth muscle and fibrous connective tissue. They can vary significantly in size, from as small as a pea to as large as a melon. Some fibroids grow slowly over many years, while others may enlarge more rapidly. Though benign, fibroids can still cause considerable discomfort and interfere with a woman’s quality of life. The exact cause of fibroids remains unknown, but researchers have identified several contributing factors and triggers that influence their development and growth.

What Causes Fibroids to Grow?

Hormonal Influences

Hormones play a crucial role in the development and growth of fibroids. Estrogen and progesterone, two female reproductive hormones, are the primary drivers behind fibroid enlargement.

Estrogen stimulates the growth of the uterine lining during the menstrual cycle and encourages fibroid growth, while progesterone helps maintain the uterine lining and, when in excess, may also contribute to fibroid expansion.

Women typically notice fibroid growth during times when hormone levels are high, such as during: 

• Pregnancy
• The reproductive years (20s to early 40s)
• Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) 

Genetic Factors

Your genes can also affect fibroid growth. If fibroids run in your family, you may be more likely to develop them, and they might grow more quickly. Researchers have even found certain gene changes in fibroid tissue that suggest these growths can be partly inherited.

Risk Factors that Contribute to Sudden Fibroid Growth

While some fibroids grow gradually, others can enlarge more quickly, which may trigger new symptoms or make existing ones worse. Several risk factors can increase the likelihood of this rapid growth:

Pregnancy

During pregnancy, the body undergoes significant hormonal changes, particularly an increase in estrogen and progesterone levels. These changes can cause fibroids to grow rapidly, which may lead to increased pelvic pressure or complications, depending on the size and location of the fibroids.

Hormonal Medications

Hormone-based treatments like birth control pills, fertility drugs, or hormone replacement therapy can affect fibroid growth by altering estrogen and progesterone levels. Although some hormonal contraceptives may help control fibroid symptoms, others can unintentionally stimulate growth.

Obesity and Body Weight

Having extra body fat can raise your estrogen levels because fat stores and makes this hormone. That’s why women with obesity are more likely to develop fibroids, and their fibroids might grow faster because of these higher hormone levels.

Diet and Lifestyle

Research suggests that certain eating habits may influence the growth of fibroids. Diets high in red meat and low in fruits, vegetables, and dairy have been linked to a higher risk of developing fibroids. Other lifestyle factors, such as heavy alcohol use, limited physical activity, and chronic stress, may also contribute, partly by affecting hormone levels.

Age and Reproductive History

Fibroid growth is more common in women in their 30s and 40s, when reproductive hormone levels are at their highest. Women who haven’t had children may also face a slightly higher risk of developing fibroids.

Can Fibroids Suddenly Grow or Become Symptomatic?

Yes, in some cases, fibroids may grow quickly, especially in response to hormonal fluctuations or during pregnancy. Rapid fibroid growth can lead to a noticeable increase in symptoms, including: 

• Heavier or prolonged menstrual bleeding
• Increased pelvic pressure or pain
• More frequent urination or urinary urgency
• Bloating or abdominal distension

Managing Fibroids That Are Getting Larger

If you’ve noticed your symptoms getting worse, or your belly feels more bloated than before, it could be a sign your fibroids are growing. You don’t have to just “wait and see.” A fibroid specialist can use imaging tests, like ultrasound or MRI, to get a clear picture of your fibroids, including their size, location, and how quickly they’re growing.

At American Fibroid Centers, we offer uterine fibroid embolization (UFE), a specialized, non-surgical treatment designed to shrink fibroids by cutting off their blood supply, causing them to shrink naturally over time. Because it’s minimally invasive and performed as an outpatient procedure, most women go home the same day and get back to their normal routine much faster than with traditional surgery.

Why many women choose UFE:

• Relief from heavy bleeding and pelvic pain
• No incisions or stitches
• Quick recovery (typically 7-10 days)
• Keeps your uterus intact

When to see a Fibroid Specialist

You may want to see a fibroid specialist if you’re experiencing:

• Heavy or prolonged menstrual periods
• Pelvic pain or pressure
• Frequent urination or trouble fully emptying your bladder
• Pain during intercourse
• Difficulty getting pregnant

Even if you’re not sure your symptoms are caused by fibroids, meeting with a specialist can help you get answers and understand your options. At American Fibroid Centers, our compassionate team provides personalized care, whether you need diagnostic imaging, treatment guidance, or UFE.

Take Control of Your Fibroid Health

Understanding what causes fibroid growth and what can accelerate it is important to managing this common condition. While you can’t control every risk factor, staying informed about hormonal triggers, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and receiving regular medical care can make a significant difference in managing fibroids effectively.

If you’re noticing changes or want to explore your treatment options, don’t wait. At American Fibroid Centers in Brooklyn, Harlem, and Reines, we provide advanced, minimally invasive fibroid treatments tailored to your unique needs.

Schedule an appointment today to learn how UFE can offer lasting relief without surgery, and help you get back to feeling your best.