HSA | FSA CARDS ARE NOW ACCEPTED

Understanding Uterine Fibroids and the XPC Gene

Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths in the muscle of the uterus that can cause symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pressure or pain, and difficulty with fertility. Many factors influence fibroid development including hormones, environment, lifestyle, and genetics. The XPC gene is involved in DNA repair pathways that protect uterine cells from accumulated damage. Variations in XPC can change how efficiently damaged DNA is recognized and repaired, which may influence the chance that abnormal cell growth will occur.

How to read your result

This report focuses on a single common XPC variant, rs2228000. Your genotype at this location is shown in your PlexusDx results page. Below you will find an easy to understand explanation of what each genotype means for fibroid risk and practical suggestions to support uterine health. PlexusDx does not provide medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before changing treatments, medications, supplements, or major lifestyle habits.

AA genotype (two effect alleles)

Your genotype: AA. This genotype is associated with decreased risk of developing uterine fibroids. The A allele at rs2228000 is linked to improved XPC function and more efficient repair of DNA damage in uterine tissue. That protective effect likely lowers your chance of abnormal cell growth that can form fibroids, and may reduce the likelihood of symptomatic disease.

Practical steps to support uterine health

  • Diet: Emphasize colorful fruits and vegetables each day to increase intake of polyphenols and antioxidants. Favor whole foods and limit processed foods rich in refined sugar and trans fats.
  • Hormone exposure: Limit frequent consumption of soy and hormone-containing dairy if you are concerned about estrogenic exposure. Rotate protein sources and choose organic dairy when possible to reduce exogenous hormone exposure.
  • Environmental exposures: Avoid BPA and phthalates by choosing glass or stainless steel food storage and phthalate-free personal care products.
  • Supplements: Consider talking with your clinician about green tea extract standardized for EGCG, kaempferol-rich foods or extracts, resveratrol, and curcumin. These compounds have been studied for effects on fibroid cells and inflammation. Use medical guidance for dosing and interactions.
  • Activity: Maintain regular physical activity. Exercise supports hormonal balance, weight management, and overall reproductive wellness.
  • Screening and symptom awareness: Even with a lower genetic risk, know the signs of fibrosis including heavy bleeding, pelvic pressure, and changes in fertility. Report symptoms to your clinician for evaluation.
AG genotype (one effect allele)

Your genotype: AG. Carrying one A effect allele is associated with likely decreased risk of fibroids compared with non-carriers. The heterozygous state suggests enhanced XPC-mediated DNA repair compared with baseline in some studies, which may lower the probability of fibroid formation.

Practical steps to support uterine health

  • Diet: Aim for a variety of vegetables and fruits to ensure broad polyphenol intake. Include cruciferous vegetables for support of estrogen metabolism.
  • Hormone exposure: Limit frequent or high-dose soy and hormone-containing dairy products and be mindful of hidden sources of hormonal compounds in processed foods.
  • Environmental exposures: Reduce exposure to endocrine disruptors such as BPA and phthalates by avoiding plastic containers for hot food and choosing fragrance-free and phthalate-free personal care items.
  • Supplements: Discuss with your healthcare provider whether EGCG from green tea extract, kaempferol, resveratrol, or curcumin are appropriate for you. These compounds can be supportive but may interact with medications or medical conditions.
  • Activity: Engage in regular moderate exercise such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming to support circulation and hormonal balance.
  • Monitoring: Follow routine gynecologic care and notify your clinician about menstrual changes or pain to enable early evaluation.
GG genotype (zero effect alleles)

Your genotype: GG. This result indicates absence of the A protective allele at rs2228000 and corresponds to typical, baseline DNA repair efficiency for XPC in uterine tissue. With a baseline genetic profile you may have a standard average population risk for uterine fibroids. Many non-genetic factors affect risk, so proactive steps can still meaningfully influence outcomes.

Practical steps to support uterine health

  • Diet: Prioritize daily servings of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds. Limit processed foods, added sugars, and refined carbohydrates that can increase inflammation and weight gain.
  • Hormone exposure: Reduce routine exposure to exogenous hormones by moderating intake of soy and choosing low hormone agricultural products when feasible.
  • Environmental exposures: Avoid heating or storing food in plastic, and choose personal care and household products labeled phthalate-free and BPA-free.
  • Supplements: Consider discussing with your provider the potential inclusion of green tea extract (EGCG), kaempferol, resveratrol, and curcumin as adjuncts to lifestyle measures. Check for contraindications and appropriate dosing.
  • Activity and weight: Maintain a healthy body weight and regular activity to reduce estrogen excess related to adipose tissue and to support general reproductive health.
  • Medical follow up: Keep routine gynecologic appointments. If you experience heavy bleeding, increasing pelvic pain, or fertility issues, seek evaluation which may include ultrasound imaging and clinical management.

Dietary and Supplement Guidance

Across all genotypes, certain dietary patterns and supplements may help reduce fibroid risk or slow growth. Emphasize whole plant foods, fiber, and a mix of polyphenol-rich items like berries, leafy greens, onions, apples, and citrus. Cruciferous vegetables support balanced estrogen metabolism. Consider minimizing highly processed foods, excessive alcohol, and high intake of red and processed meats.

Supplements that have shown potential in research settings include:

  • Green tea extract standardized for EGCG. May reduce fibroid size and symptoms in some studies.
  • Kaempferol containing foods such as kale, beans, and tea, or standardized extracts.
  • Resveratrol from grapes and berries or supplements. May influence inflammation and cell signaling.
  • Curcumin from turmeric. Anti inflammatory properties that could be supportive.

Always review supplements with your clinician before starting, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medications, or have chronic medical conditions. Supplements can interact with medications and have dose dependent effects.

Lifestyle and Environmental Recommendations

  • Exercise routinely. Aim for at least 150 minutes per week of moderate intensity activity or the equivalent combination of aerobic and strength training.
  • Maintain a healthy weight. Excess adipose tissue can raise estrogen levels that influence fibroid growth.
  • Reduce exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals. Use glass or stainless steel for food storage, avoid microwaving plastics, and select personal care products that are free of phthalates and synthetic fragrances.
  • Manage stress. Chronic stress affects hormonal balance. Practices such as mindfulness, sleep optimization, and restorative activities support overall reproductive health.

When to see your healthcare provider

  • Heavy, prolonged or irregular bleeding that affects daily life
  • Severe pelvic pain, pressure, or bloating
  • Difficulty conceiving or pregnancy complications
  • Concerns about supplements, potential drug interactions, or interpretation of genetic findings

PlexusDx provides genetic information to help you learn about predispositions and potential supports for wellness. This information is educational only and does not replace medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized medical guidance and before beginning any new supplement, therapy, or major lifestyle change.