Uterine fibroids- Symptoms - Treatment & Risk Factors you need to know about
It’s estimated that two thirds of Australian women will be impacted at some stage by fibroids
Fibroids most commonly develop when you’re in your 30’s and 40’s and there are some known factors that contribute to these benign uterine tumours.
In this post I’ll make a brief run down of the symptoms, causes and some of the naturopathic treatments for fibroids. You will have some immediate actionables that you can start considering today if this is a condition that runs in your family or that you’ve been diagnosed with recently.
Signs and symptoms of fibroids
Heavy periods
Painful periods
Pain at any time of the menstrual cycle/ not necessarily associated with the period
Pain during intercourse
A feeling of pressure in the pelvic region
Incontinence
Constipation
Anaemia or iron deficiency- due to heavy bleeds with the period
Fertility issues- obstruction of the fallopian tubes and other issues associated.
What causes fibroids? What should you consider if you’ve been diagnosed?
The general cause of fibroids is listed as unknown, however it’s generally accepted that fibroids are an estrogen driven tumour. Studies point the finger at multiple factors that lead to the development of uterine fibroids. Let’s take a closer look at some of them.
Fibroids have a large amount of oestrogen receptors and are stimulated by the presence of oestrogen. If you have poor clearance of oestrogen via the liver, or you’re exposed to a large amount of environmental estrogens these may contribute to the development of fibroids.
We know now that there is a large number of endocrine disrupting chemicals in our environment, many of use are being exposed without even knowing. To learn more about these head across to this post.
The key ones you want to be aware of…
DDT, PCB’s, BPA’s, DES. We know now that babies exposed to these while their in utero, during their mothers pregnancy can lead to a reprogramming of the uterus and a hyper response to estrogen later on as an adult. So reducing exposure while pregnant is key.
Genetic Influence
Unfortunately this one does run in the family, however you can influence your environment to minimise your risk.
Vitamin D deficiency
Vitamin D is an important vitamin for the regulation and proliferation of cells. This is particularly important when it comes to inhibiting the growth of tumours.
Studies have shown that women with fibroids have lower levels of vitamin D in comparison with those who have no fibroids.
Some animal studies have even shown that vitamin D supplementation can reduce or resolve fibroids, you want to be mindful hat high doses should only be taken under the supervision of a qualified health practitioner.
Chronic Inflammation
If you have conditions that lead to chronic inflammation in the uterus like pelvic inflammatory disease, then you may be more likely to suffer fibroids, it can also increase oestrogen.
Uterine infections
Continuing on from the chronic inflammation in the uterus, having multiple infections can also contribute to the formation of fibroids. Suffering from STI’s like chlamydia has been associated with an increase in risk.
Studies have shown the use of talcum powder on pads etc also increases the risk. Essentially here you want to be very mindful of the products you’re using on your lady bits. Preserve your vaginal pH and use organic sanitary products only with no unnecessary added chemicals.
High body mass index
Metabolic syndrome and excess weight can increase your chances of developing fibroids and embarking on a weight management protocol may help to reduce the size and severity of fibroids. Having said this I’ve seen many women in practice who have a healthy BMI and still struggle with fibroids.
Testing for fibroids
In most cases uterine fibroids are picked up on transvaginal ultrasound. OMNI ultrasound and gynaecological care clinic in Sydney are fabulous when it comes to screening. You can request a referral from your GP. They have large TV monitors that allow you to see your uterus during screening. It’s an empowering experience and the technicians who work there are generally women.
Other tests you may want to have done:
Full blood count
Iron Studies
Vitamin D
Female hormones (if you’re cycling these need to be taken at particular points in the cycle)
Other things you may want to consider if you have uterine fibroids.
Unfortunately this condition can co-exist with others, so you can have PCOS and fibroids or even endometriosis and fibroids. Getting clear on your diagnosis and regular monitoring of the size and growth of the fibroids is key. This way you’re able to track development and the impact of whatever protocols or medications you may be taking.
Treatment options and considerations for fibroids
It’s common that fibroids will start decreasing in size once menopause commences. If the severity of your fibroids and symptoms impact your quality of life your gynaecologist may want to support you through surgical interventions. Make sure you discuss all available options and risk factors before deciding.
Let’s break this down to what you can start doing right now…
Reduce endocrine toxin exposure.
Work on reducing weight if your BMI is high.
Work to improve your iron intake to avoid iron deficiency.
Work to reduce inflammation in your body. You can do this by reducing alcohol, smoking, poor food choices and of course increasing anti-oxidants and natural anti-inflammatories. There are a host of great herbal medicines to help with this.
Additional support for fibroids.
I use herbal medicines like chaste tree, paeonia and others which may help modulate oestrogen and progesterone.
Support liver function for the metabolism of estrogen- St Mary’s thistle, Schisandra and broccoli sprouts may be applicable here.
Improve fibre intake to reduce reabsorption of oestrogen in the gut.
Turmeric and other herbs have been found useful in reducing inflammation and growth of abnormal cells in the body.
Herbs like yarrow and ladies mantle, may help with reducing excessive bleeding.
As a herbalist I will more often than not prescribe a custom made herbal extract which is specific for your current health and fibroid signs and symptoms.
Herbal medicines can also be given in tablet form- One study finding that 800mg of green tea extract a day for four months significantly reduced fibroid volume as well as some of the symptoms associated with the fibroids. This is a relatively high dose and so consult your naturopath before commencing to make sure this is the right option for you.
To find out more about naturopathic and nutritional support for fibroids please book yourself in for a complimentary 15 minute health call.
Alternatively sign up for our newsletter in order to receive updates on our latest posts. I’ll be writing more on the dietary considerations you’ll want to know in order to help keep fibroids in check.