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Archived Health Topics » Uterine Fibroids

Featured Topic: Uterine Fibroids

Uterine fibroids are the most common, benign tumors in women of childbearing age, but no one knows exactly what causes them. They can be frustrating to live with when they cause symptoms, although not all women with fibroids have symptoms. Researchers don't know all the reasons why some women get uterine fibroids, but there are some risk factors that are known. Take the Quiz:

Which of the following statements is NOT true?

Most of the time, fibroids grow in women of childbearing age.
African American women are more likely to get uterine fibroids than women of other racial groups.
Uterine fibroids usually become worse after menopause.
Women who are overweight or obese are at a slightly higher risk for fibroids than women who are not overweight.

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Books on Uterine Fibroids

Fibroids: The Complete Guide to Taking Charge of Your Physical, Emotional and Sexual Well-Being
Johanna Skilling (2006)
Covers the full range of issues related to fibroids, including testing and treatment options, emotional issues, diet and lifestyle, and alternative therapies. Presents stories from women with fibroids who share their experiences.

What Your Doctor May Not Tell You about Fibroids: New Techniques and Therapies--Including Breakthrough Alternatives to Hysterectomy
Scott C. Goodwin, David Drum, Michael Broder (2003)
Explores the lifestyle strategies, medical therapies, and less invasive forms of surgery that may be able to control fibroids without a hysterectomy.

It's a Sistah Thing: A Guide to Understanding and Dealing with Fibroids for African American Women
Monique R. Brown (2002)
Specifically addresses African American women, who suffer from uterine fibroids three to nine times more often than women of other races. Combines information on conventional and alternative therapies, supplemented by checklists, exercises, and questions to ask your doctor.

Healing Fibroids: A Doctor's Guide to a Natural Cure
Allan Warshowsky, Elena Oumano (2002)
Looks at surgical procedures, the relationship of hormones and the menstrual cycle, diet, supplements, herbal remedies, exercise, emotional healing, and the effects of environmental toxins. Combines traditional medicine and holistic methods to promote optimal health and help avoid surgery.

NC Services & Support Groups

Women’s Wellness and Specialty Services (UNC Health Care)

Women’s Health Issues (NC Health Info)

Links: Uterine Fibroids

Fast Facts about Uterine Fibroids (National Institute of Child Health & Human Development)

Uterine Fibroids (National Women’s Health Information Center)

Uterine Fibroids (Mayo Clinic)

Uterine Fibroids Symptoms and Diagnosis (Society of Interventional Radiology)

Uterine Fibroid Treatment Options (Society of Interventional Radiology)

Uterine Fibroids (MedlinePlus)

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