Role of fetal programming in uterine fibroids

Objective. To identify significant maternal epigenetic risk factors associated with the formation of uterine fibroids in the offspring. Patients and methods. A retrospective audit of questionnaires completed by patients of reproductive age with uterine fibroids (n = 915), who had the opportunity to ask their mothers about their social status, lifestyle, pregnancy, and childbirth, was conducted. The original questionnaire was designed and included 4 sections and 32 questions. Statistically significant variables were analyzed using a logistic regression model. Results. The study identified maternal epigenetic risk factors that significantly influence the incidence of uterine fibroids in the offspring. These include maternal age at childbirth under 25 years, presence of siblings, firstborn child, lack of higher education, heavy physical work during pregnancy or sedentary work with low physical activity, and toxicosis during pregnancy. Factors such as stress during pregnancy and vitamin intake are associated with a low risk of developing uterine fibroids in the offspring. Conclusion. The results obtained reliably indicate the presence of several maternal epigenetic risk factors affecting the formation of uterine fibroids in the offspring. Further studies are required to detail their impact and to develop additional recommendations for preconception preparation and rational behavior of patients during pregnancy. © 2022, Dynasty Publishing House. All rights reserved.