Can Weight Gain Cause Fibroids to Grow

Obesity is linked to many health issues, like heart disease and diabetes. But what about uterine fibroids? Fibroids are noncancerous tumors that can range from the size of a pea to the size of a softball. Many women have uterine fibroids, but some are more likely to develop them than others.

It’s a common misconception that weight gain by itself can cause fibroids to grow. In fact, many factors determine your risk. At American Fibroid Centers, our Board Certified vascular experts conduct a thorough consultation with every patient to understand if their symptoms may be related to uterine fibroids. Our doctors also explain all treatment options including minimally invasive options, like uterine fibroid embolization (UFE). If you live near West Orange, NJ, or in the New York City area, please contact us to schedule a consultation in one of our convenient locations in Manhattan, Queens, Fishkill, Harlem, or Brooklyn, NY. Don’t wait, call us to schedule a consultation today and stop living in pain from uterine fibroids!

What fibroid symptoms should I look out for?

Many women are unaware they have fibroids because they never experience symptoms. However, if you do have symptoms, like chronic pelvic pain, heavy menstrual bleeding, or frequent urination, it’s important to see a specialist at American Fibroid Centers to determine if uterine fibroids are the cause of the symptoms. Other fibroid symptoms include:

• Lower back pain
• Discomfort during sexual intercourse
• Heavy or irregular menstrual cycles
• Pressure, pain, and cramping

What causes fibroids?

There is no single known cause of uterine fibroids. Clinical studies have shown that hormones, such as estrogen, can play a role in their development. When higher amounts of estrogen are present, fibroids have a tendency to grow. Scientists have also found that women with a family history of fibroids or women of African American descent are also at risk.

So, what about obesity? Yes, having a high BMI (Body Mass Index) or being 20% over your advised body weight can lead to uterine fibroid development. However, obesity by itself may not contribute to fibroids. During a consultation in our New York or New Jersey locations, American Fibroid Centers physicians conduct a thorough evaluation of your symptoms, discuss the medical history of each patient, and perform an overall health assessment before making a diagnosis. Our doctors may order an MRI as a part of the consultation process as well.

Can you explain uterine fibroid embolization?

Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) treatment is a minimally-invasive procedure that blocks the blood supply to fibroids, causing them to shrink. During treatment, American Fibroid Centers deliver tiny particles into the specific blood vessels feeding the fibroids. The procedure is performed in one of our state-of-the-art, Joint Commission-accredited outpatient centers, where they receive personalized compassionate care, every step of the way. Patients return home the same evening of the procedure and there is no need for a hospital stay. We frequently help patients in West Orange, NJ, Manhattan, Queens, Fishkill, Harlem, and Brooklyn, NY.

Why should I choose American Fibroid Centers?

American Fibroid Centers is proud to provide personalized care for each of our patients. Our compassionate team takes the time to evaluate your symptoms, discuss treatment options, and work with you to determine the best solution for your condition.

Reduce pelvic pain and more through UFE!

When you feel your best, you have more energy. You enjoy life with your friends and family without pelvic pain, bloating, or weight gain. If you live in West Orange, NJ, or in the New York City area including Manhattan, Queens, Harlem, Brooklyn or Fishkill, NY, please contact us to schedule a consultation at American Fibroid Centers.