No one knows exactly what makes fibroids develop, but experts have discovered certain circumstances that make it more likely that they will develop. Aside from the conditions that have been identified by knowledgeable researchers, there are also many misconceptions that still circulate today.
Today we are going to talk about one of these folk-lore-type myths that you may run across today, and we will answer the question, “Can lack of sex cause fibroids?”
Is There Any Connection Between Lack Of Sexual Activity And Fibroids?
There is no scientific evidence that supports the idea that a lack of sex causes fibroids. As outlined above, the development of fibroids is linked to hormonal imbalances, genetics, and other conditions, but whether a woman is sexually active does not have any influence over the formation of fibroids.
Where Did The Myth That Lack Of Sex Causes Fibroids Come From?
The misconception that a lack of sex might cause fibroids could have developed because many individuals do not understand how the female reproductive system works. Many women lose their sex drive around the time they begin to develop fibroids, but they often do not find out they have fibroids until later when they show up on an ultrasound. Fibroids do not form due to lack of sex, but they can influence a woman’s sex life.
- When a woman has fibroids, they may also experience a substantial decline in libido, but it is indirectly linked to the fibroids. Excess estrogen is the culprit behind the loss of sex drive and also promotes fibroid growth;
- Because fibroids grow in and around the uterus, they can cause discomfort during sexual intercourse and cause a woman to avoid sex;
- Fibroids can cause bleeding after sex and can also cause a woman’s menstrual cycle to last longer and be heavier than what is normal, which can interfere with her sexual activity.
It is not true that fibroids are caused by lack of sex or too much sex, and their formation is not linked in any way to sexual activity. It is true that excess estrogen exposure and fibroid growth can negatively impact a woman’s sex life.
What Should You Do If You Have Fibroids Ruining Your Sex Life?
If you have been diagnosed with fibroids, set up a personal consultation with Atlanta Fibroid Center to learn about your treatment options. If you have been told by your OB/GYN that you need a hysterectomy or a myomectomy to treat your fibroids, you need to know that you have another option that does not involve surgery.
The interventional radiologists with Atlanta Fibroid Center are specially trained experts in a procedure called uterine fibroid embolization (UFE). This outpatient procedure is done to eliminate fibroids without the risks and recovery time of surgery and can treat all your fibroids no matter where they are growing or how many you have.
A hysterectomy removes your uterus, and your future fertility, and has long-term consequences. A myomectomy compromises the integrity of your uterus, and many women experience fibroid recurrence requiring additional surgery within 5 years. UFE is 90% effective in removing all fibroids forever and leaves your uterus intact.
Are you tired of your schedule revolving around fibroid symptoms? Would you like to reclaim control of your sex life? The Atlanta Fibroid Center can help you escape the bonds of fibroids and give you the freedom to be you. Reach out to us today to learn more!
