Common Causes of Uterine Fibroids and Risk Factors
Dr. Dimple Doshi (MBBS, MD, DGO)
Gynecologist & Laparoscopic Surgeon
27+ years’ experience
20,000+ surgeries completed
Introduction
Many women come to me worried and confused after being told they have fibroids, wondering “Why did this happen to me?” In clinical experience, uterine fibroids are not caused by a single factor. They develop due to a combination of hormones, genetics, and individual risk factors. Understanding these causes helps reduce fear and allows for timely, personalized care.
Tired of heavy, exhausting periods? Get expert treatment options from Dr. Dimple Doshi.
What causes uterine fibroids to develop?
Uterine fibroids form due to hormonal sensitivity, genetic predisposition, and changes within uterine muscle cells that promote abnormal growth.
Common Causes of Uterine Fibroids
-
Hormonal influence (estrogen and progesterone)
Fibroids are hormone-sensitive. Estrogen and progesterone support the growth of uterine muscle tissue, and fibroids tend to grow under the same hormonal environment. This is why fibroids are usually seen during the reproductive years and often change in size when hormone levels fluctuate. -
Genetic tendency and inherited susceptibility
Family history is a strong biological driver. Many women with fibroids have a mother or sister with the same condition. Genetic susceptibility can influence:- when fibroids appear
- how many fibroids develop
- how quickly they grow
-
Cellular changes within the uterine muscle
Fibroids arise from uterine smooth muscle cells that begin multiplying differently from normal muscle cells. As this process continues, fibroid tissue produces excess extracellular matrix (fibrous tissue), giving fibroids their firm, rubbery consistency. -
Growth factors and tissue signaling
Fibroids show increased activity of certain growth factors, which are natural body signals that regulate cell growth and tissue repair. These signals can promote fibroid cell proliferation and increase fibrous tissue formation. -
Local inflammation and metabolic environment
Low-grade inflammation and metabolic factors may create a body environment that supports fibroid development in predisposed women. This area is still being studied, but it helps explain why fibroids are often discussed alongside lifestyle and metabolic influences.
Dr. Dimple Doshi’s Tip:
Not every woman with hormonal imbalance or a family history will develop fibroids. These factors increase susceptibility, not certainty—which is why two women with similar lifestyles can have very different outcomes.
Who is more prone to developing uterine fibroids?
Certain age groups, genetic backgrounds, and metabolic factors increase a woman’s likelihood of developing fibroids.
Risk Factors for Uterine Fibroids (Who Is More Prone?)
- Age (most common in the 30s and 40s)
Risk increases during the reproductive years, with fibroids most often diagnosed between ages 30 and 50. - Family history (one of the strongest predictors)
Having a first-degree relative, such as a mother or sister, significantly raises the risk. - Early onset of periods (early menarche)
Starting periods early increases lifetime exposure to reproductive hormones and is associated with higher fibroid risk. - Overweight and obesity
Higher body fat affects hormone availability and metabolism, which is linked to increased fibroid risk and sometimes more pronounced symptoms. - Vitamin D deficiency
Low vitamin D levels have been associated with a higher prevalence of fibroids in multiple studies, making this a potentially modifiable risk factor. - High blood pressure (hypertension)
Hypertension has been linked with fibroids in several studies. The exact mechanism is unclear, but vascular and hormonal pathways are suspected. - Dietary patterns (risk modifier, not a single cause)
Some research suggests higher fibroid risk with:- higher red meat intake
- lower fruit and vegetable intake
Diet should be viewed as a risk modifier rather than a direct cause.
- Ethnic predisposition (varies by population)
Global data shows that fibroid prevalence and symptom severity can vary across populations due to genetic and environmental factors.
Dr. Dimple Doshi’s Tip:
Risk factors increase likelihood—not certainty. Many women with fibroids have no obvious risk factors, while others with multiple risks may never develop symptoms. This is why individualized evaluation is essential.
When should fibroid risk factors prompt medical evaluation?
If risk factors are present along with heavy bleeding, pain, pressure symptoms, or anemia, a gynecological evaluation is recommended.
Early assessment allows:
- accurate diagnosis
- monitoring before complications arise
- treatment planning that preserves comfort, fertility, and quality of life
Still have questions about heavy bleeding, periods, or anemia? Get clarity from Dr. Dimple Doshi’s expert team.
Conclusion
Uterine fibroids are common, hormonally influenced, and often genetically linked—not caused by anything a woman did wrong. While certain risk factors increase susceptibility, early awareness and timely evaluation make fibroids highly manageable.
If you’ve been diagnosed with fibroids or notice symptoms such as heavy periods, pelvic pressure, or unexplained anemia, a calm, structured consultation can provide clarity and reassurance. Effective, personalized solutions are available—and early care consistently leads to better outcomes.
