UTERINE FIBROIDS

Growths in the uterus that are made up of muscle and connective tissue. They can range in size from smaller than a seed to larger than a tennis ball. Many women will have fibroids at some time, often during the childbearing years. Fibroids usually don’t cause symptoms, but when they do, symptoms can include periods that last more than a week, extra heavy menstrual bleeding and spotting, pain during sex, pelvic pressure, frequent urination and more. Black women are more likely to have fibroids than women of other races, and they can experience worse symptoms. Recent research has found that a significant number women with fibroids have higher levels of phthalates (endocrine disrupters) in their bodies than other women. Endocrine disruptors are common in the environment. Their sources include plastic food containers, plastic bottles, medical devices, and sex toys