Risk Factors for Uterine Fibroids

A risk factor is something that increases your likelihood of getting a disease or condition.

It is possible to develop uterine fibroids with or without the risk factors listed below. However, the more risk factors you have, the greater your likelihood of developing fibroids. If you have a number of risk factors, ask your doctor what you can do to reduce your risk.

Age

Fibroids may be more common in women in their 30s and 40s.

Ethnic Background

Black women tend to have more and larger fibroids at an earlier age. Asian women may have a lower risk.

Obesity

Women who are overweight or obese are also at a slightly higher risk for fibroids.

Gene Mutation

There may also be a genetic link in the development of fibroids.

Pregnancy

Women who have given birth appear to be at lower risk for uterine fibroids.

References

Leiomyoma. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: http://www.ebscohost.com/dynamed/ . Updated May 22, 2012. Accessed August 16, 2012.

Risk factors. The National Uterine Fibroids Foundation website. Available at: http://www.nuff.org/health%5Friskfactors.htm . Accessed August 16, 2012.

Revision Information

Reviewer: Andrea Chisholm
Review Date: 09/2012
Update Date: 00/91/2012

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.