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An oestrogen/progesterone imbalance can encourage fibroids. Scientists think either of these hormones can 'turn on' genes for various growth factors in the womb, leading to local overgrowth of womb-muscle fibres. Fibroids are more likely in very overweight women because their fat cells manufacture oestrogen and they tend to have relatively high levels of blood sugar and growth hormone. Fibroids grow more quickly in pregnancy but are less likely in women who have had a child. They are two to three times more common, develop earlier and grow larger in black women than in white. It's also possible that pelvic congestion encourages fibroids by obstructing the flow in the blood and lymph vessels. The resulting pressure in the wall of the womb might make it more likely to 'defend itself' by forming lumps.
Also, fibroids can run in families and scientists suspect that this may have a genetic basis.
Home Treatment and Prevention of fibroids
Eat less fat, particularly the saturated variety and less refined carbohydrate (foods made with white flour and added sugar). Some women report improvement if they eat less red meat.
Healthy weight maintenance - Lose excess weight and maintain your new, healthy weight.
Exercise - Take half-an-hour's aerobic exercise each day to boost the womb's circulation and reduce congestion and fluid retention.
Hydrotherapy, heat and cold - Boost the womb's blood supply with a daily contrast sitz bath.
Tests and investigations
An ultrasound scan or hysteroscopy can reveal fibroids.
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