Fibroids are non-cancerous (benign) growth of cells within the uterus. It is an emerging problem among the females. It can occur mostly during the child-bearing days of women. Uterine fibroids are not usually a threat to your health and can resolve easily with proper and timely treatment. The most common symptoms of Uterine Fibroids include Heavy and irregular menstrual flow, pelvic colic, dysuria ( =pain during urination), bloating of the stomach, and abdominal pain. Some patients may have a concern, about whether birth control pills cause fibroids or not. In this article, we will discuss the issue in detail.
Potential Risk Factors for Uterine Fibroids
Uterine fibroids are idiopathic but mostly they are found to be caused by hormonal issues. These issues can be irregular levels of estrogen or progesterone, gene mutations. Moreover, the extracellular matrix that causes more fibrous deposition with the uterus, and other growth factors.
Due to the unique nature, some of the potential risk factors are also underscored that can cause uterine fibroids. These can be race, family history, obesity, low vitamin D levels, the onset of menstruation before the age of 10 years, and taking oral contraceptives.
Birth Control Pills and Uterine Fibroids
Oral contraceptives or birth control pills may increase the risk of getting uterine fibroids. There is a connection between fibroids and the hormones that are concerned with the lining of the uterus (estrogen and progesterone). On the other hand, Oral contraceptives can be prescribed as a treatment option to manage the symptoms of many gynecological issues which include Endometriosis, ovarian or endometrial cancer, ovarian cysts, and uterine fibroids.
Birth Control Pills at a Young Age (16 – 20)
However, taking birth control from a young age (16 – 20) is a potential risk factor for the development of uterine fibroids. Various studies that were conducted in different settings conclude that those females who have not already had uterine fibroids may have less but a potential chance of developing it – especially with the pills that contain low doses of estrogen. Duration and the age for onset of oral contraception play a crucial role in the development of uterine fibroids.
Birth Control Pills at a Common Age (20 – 25)
Taking oral contraceptives is a common birth control option among the age group of (20 – 25) years, if the females are taking birth control pills that contain low estrogen dose there are minimal chances that a small figure will develop uterine fibroids whether they have a positive or negative family history. While in menopaused women it is a treatment option that can relieve symptoms of uterine fibroids.
Conclusion
This question can be a matter of debate as there are both benefits and risk factors regarding uterine fibroids. The root causes of uterine fibroids are unknown. However, several comparative studies have proved that birth control pills may cause uterine fibroids. As a result, they can be a risk factor as well as a good treatment option.
The potential risks can be reduced with the women who have not developed any fibroids by getting a proper consultation from a gynecologist regarding the use of oral contraceptives – As the duration of taking birth control pills and the age of the female can be a potential threat in developing uterine fibroids. It’s crucial to get yourself educated on your body and its requirements. Navigate your ways through professional advice from specialists regarding the use of birth control pills. In order to reduce the risk of developing uterine fibroids or any other potential threat.
