Uterine fibroids potentially leading to increased weight in affected individuals?
Chattin' with Dr. Lindsey Valentine about Uterine Fibroids
Hey there! Ever wondered if uterine fibroids, those non-cancerous growths in your uterus, could be messing with your weight? Let's talk about it.
First off, it's essential to understand uterine fibroids and their common risk factors. These growths affect around 40-80% of women and are often linked to a higher body weight, lack of children, and a family history of fibroids.
Dr. Lindsey Valentine, an Ob/Gyn at Cleveland Clinic, explains, "[Uterine fibroids] are benign tumors or growths from the muscle wall of the uterus." They can develop inside or on the outer surface of the uterus. The size of these fibroids can vary greatly, from pea-sized to the size of a melon as per Dr. Valentine.
Now, you might be thinking, if these fibroids grow, could they lead to weight gain? Dr. Valentine shares, "That can certainly give an appearance of weight gain or increased abdominal girth." However, in most cases, uterine fibroids themselves do not cause weight gain, they may only give the illusion of it due to swelling or bloating. Even large fibroids seldom weigh more than four to five pounds.
But, there's an essential distinction to make. Although the mass and size of uterine fibroids don't trigger weight gain as such, they can cause bulging in the abdomen, giving a false impression of weight gain.
On a positive note, once uterine fibroids are removed during surgery, the resulting pressure and associated bloating should decrease, making your clothes fit better. However, significant weight loss is not typical after the procedure.
Are you struggling with symptoms like excessive bleeding, pelvic pain, or bloating? Don't ignore these signs. Your healthcare provider can help with over-the-counter medication, hormonal treatments, or even surgical options depending on the size, location, and number of fibroids, while considering your future pregnancy plans.
Remember, despite the concern about weight gain, it's essential to prioritize your health and consult with healthcare professionals if you're experiencing symptoms related to uterine fibroids.
So, while uterine fibroids themselves might not cause true weight gain, they can potentially lead to abdominal swelling, distorting body image and causing associated discomfort. Consult with your healthcare provider for a proper assessment and treatment options.
- Uterine fibroids, being linked to a higher body weight, can potentially affect one's health-and-wellness, including women's health.
- Understanding the history of medical-conditions like uterine fibroids is crucial, as they are common, affecting around 40-80% of women.
- In the context of health-and-wellness and women's health, it's important to note that while uterine fibroids don't typically cause weight gain, they might cause abdominal swelling or bloating, altering body image and causing discomfort.
