Uterine fibroids are benign tumors that form on the walls of a woman's uterus. They occur in 20 to 80 percent of women between the ages of 30 and 50. Those at risk of developing these fibroids may be wondering how to prevent them. The exact cause of fibroids development is unknown, as are the methods that inhibit their formation. However, experts have managed to identify certain risk factors, treatments and complications that can help understand this pathology. There are also many studies underway that have found some significant clues as to what might be useful in preventing fibroids.
Steps
Step 1. Know the risk factors in developing uterine fibroids
- The risk of developing uterine fibroids increases over the years.
- The presence of cases of fibroids in the family could triple the risk of forming fibroids compared to the average.
- Women of African descent are 3 times more prone to fibroids than those of Caucasian origin. They also tend to develop them earlier and more severely.
- Overweight women are more likely to develop fibroids.
Step 2. Exercise regularly
Studies indicate that the more a woman trains, the more likely she is to develop uterine fibroids.
Step 3. Check your weight
Studies also indicate that obesity can increase the risk of uterine fibroids 2 to 3 times more than the average. Keep your weight within recommended values based on your height and build. Calculate your body mass index (BMI), which is weight in kilograms divided by height in square meters or weight in kilograms divided by height in square centimeters and then multiplied by 703. A healthy BMI is between 18, 5 and 25. If yours is over 25, take steps to lose weight right away.
Step 4. Be aware that pregnancy and childbirth can have protective effects against the development of uterine fibroids
Step 5. Take oral contraceptives, as they can reduce the risk of uterine fibroids
Step 6. Reduce your consumption of red meat
Studies indicate that consuming large amounts of beef and ham can help raise the risk of fibroids.
By eating fish such as salmon, mackerel, tuna, you can reduce the inflammation of the tissues that form uterine fibroids
Step 7. Eat vegetables
Studies indicate that a diet rich in vegetables can protect a woman against the formation of fibroids.
Step 8. Be aware that complications can arise from developing fibroids
They can include painful and heavy menstrual periods, blood loss anemia, pressure on the bladder or rectum, swelling of the abdomen. Also, if you are pregnant and have fibroids, complications can include miscarriage, blocked fallopian tubes, premature birth, rupture of the placenta, and abnormal position of the fetus.
Advice
- Fibroids tend to shrink in size after menopause.
- Fibroids can be surgically removed if they are causing problems. However, they tend to grow. The only way to ensure they don't grow back is to undergo a hysterectomy. This type of surgery, which involves removing the uterus, also predicts complications and consequences over time. Therefore, the procedure should be thoroughly discussed with the doctor.
- Oral contraceptives, if taken from an early age, do not help prevent fibroids.
