Updated: 11/13/23
Are you struggling with uterine fibroids? You are not alone, as it is estimated that one in five women suffer from this condition. Uterine fibroids can cause a range of unpleasant symptoms such as abdominal discomfort and heavy menstrual bleeding, making it difficult to live an active and healthy life. Fortunately, there are natural remedies available that can help to reduce or even eliminate the burden of these symptoms. In this post, we will explore the use of natural supplements for treatment and relief of uterine fibroids- offering insight into which supplements may be most beneficial for your individual situation. Read on for more information!
What are Uterine Fibroids?
Uterine fibroids are benign (noncancerous) tumors made of muscle cells and connective tissue that grow in a female patient’s uterus (womb). They are common among women in their childbearing years. In fact, some studies report that 20 to 80 percent of women have fibroids at the age of 50. Fibroids can cause several symptoms depending on their location, size and proximity to the adjacent pelvic organs. Some of the most common symptoms include pain and pressure in the lower abdominal area and abnormal bleeding during menstruation.
Uterine fibroids are also called uterine myomas or leiomyomas. They are usually not connected or related to uterine cancer. Fibroids can develop in a cluster or in a single nodule and may range in size from 1 mm to 20 cm (8 inches) in diameter. Most women who have fibroids in the uterus do not show signs or symptoms. In fact, patients often discover uterine fibroids accidentally through routine ultrasounds and pelvic exams. However, if a patient does experience symptoms they depend on the number of fibroids in the womb, their size and location.
Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids
If a uterine fibroid causes symptoms, the most probable signs include:
Heavy Periods
One of the most common symptoms of uterine fibroids is prolonged or heavy menstrual bleeding, which lasts more than 10 days. This is caused by the enlargement of your uterus, which leads to the shedding of additional blood and lining tissue. If you experience any form of unusual bleeding, it’s important to schedule an appointment with a doctor to get a proper diagnosis.
Abdominal Pain and Cramps
Another symptom of uterine fibroids is mild to severe abdominal pain and cramps. The location of the fibroid(s) can affect the type and severity of pain. A fibroid located in the cervix, for example, often causes pain during intercourse.
Pressure and Bloating
As fibroids grow larger, you might feel constant discomfort and pressure in your lower abdomen, particularly if the fibroid is pushing against nearby organs. Bloating and swelling can also develop due to engorged veins and swelling in your lower abdomen. This can lead to constipation, which can aggravate the pain and pressure.
Urinary Incontinence
Fibroids can put pressure on the bladder, causing you to feel a constant urge to urinate, which leads to urinary incontinence. You could also have difficulty urinating due to the pressure placed on your bladder.
Infertility
In rare cases, fibroids can cause infertility or miscarriage. The size and location of the fibroid(s) can hamper ovulation and implantation, making it difficult to get pregnant. If you’re struggling to get pregnant or have repeated miscarriages, make sure to see your gynecologist as soon as possible.
Pain During Sexual Intercourse
If you experience pain during sexual intercourse, it may be due to uterine fibroids. Fibroids can cause discomfort during intercourse, and you may feel a sharp or dull pain in your lower abdomen. If you experience this symptom, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider.
Digestive Issues
Uterine fibroids can also cause digestive issues. If you experience constipation, bloating, or other digestive issues, it may be due to fibroids pressing on your intestines. This symptom may be easy to ignore or attribute to other things, but if you notice these issues persist, talk to your doctor.
Lower Back Pain
Fibroids can cause lower back pain that may feel constant or only occur during your menstrual cycle. The pain can be dull or sharp and can affect your daily activities. If pain impacts your daily life in any way, speak to your doctor.
Enlargement of the Lower Abdomen
Fibroids can cause your lower abdomen may feel swollen, causing discomfort or sudden discomfort when you lay down on your stomach. If you notice a sudden extension of your lower abdomen, this could indicate uterine fibroids, and it is important to get a proper diagnosis.
Anemia Due to Heavy Menstrual Bleeding
Heavy menstrual bleeding is one of the common symptoms of uterine fibroids. If you experience this symptom, you may develop anemia, which can cause weakness, fatigue, and shortness of breath. It is important to seek treatment if you experience any of these symptoms.
Causes for Uterine Fibroids
Fibroids are benign tumors that develop in a female patient’s uterus. Tumors develop if cells divide abnormally and very quickly, forming a mass in the body. Uterine fibroids can grow rapidly or they may grow slowly and remain the same size for years. Researchers do not know exactly what causes uterine fibroids to develop in some women and not others. However, researchers do know that they are controlled by hormones, specifically estrogen and progesterone.
Genetics
Family history is a strong predictor of whether or not a woman will develop fibroids. If your mother or sister has had fibroids, your risk for developing them is three times higher than average. This is likely due to the presence of certain genes that make a woman more susceptible to fibroids.
Hormonal Imbalance
Fibroids are hormone-driven growths, which means that they tend to develop during periods of hormonal imbalance. Specifically, they are fueled by estrogen and progesterone – two hormones that fluctuate throughout a woman’s menstrual cycle. If your body produces too much of these hormones, or if they are imbalanced, it can increase your risk for developing fibroids.
Obesity
Studies have shown that women who are overweight or obese are more likely to develop fibroids than women who are at a healthy weight. This is because fat cells produce estrogen, which can stimulate the growth of fibroids. Losing weight, therefore, can help reduce your risk of developing fibroids.
Diet
What you eat can also affect your risk for developing fibroids. A diet high in red meat, processed foods, and sugar has been linked to an increased risk for fibroids. On the other hand, a plant-based diet that is rich in vegetables, fruits, and whole grains has been shown to reduce your risk.
Vitamin D Deficiency
Research studies show that women who have vitamin D deficiency are susceptible to developing fibroids. Vitamin D plays an essential role in promoting healthy muscle function and hormone regulation. Lack of exposure to sunlight, a significant source of vitamin D, contributes to this condition. Taking vitamin D supplements and spending time outdoors in the sun can prevent the occurrence of uterine fibroids.
Age
Fibroids commonly occur in women between the ages of 30 and 40 years. Hormonal imbalances and changes as women age contribute to the growth of uterine fibroids. The chances of developing fibroids increase with age, and women who are approaching menopause are at higher risk of developing fibroids.
Race
Studies have shown that African American women have a higher propensity to develop fibroids than any other race. The risk increases by three times in these women than their white counterparts. It is still unclear why this phenomenon occurs, but genetics and lifestyle are said to play a crucial role in the development of fibroids.
Early Onset of Menstruation
Women who started menstruation at an early age (before 10 years) are at a higher risk of developing fibroids. This is because the longer a woman has been menstruating, the more probable it is for her to develop fibroids. The hormonal fluctuations in the body during this time are the prime reason for the development of fibroids.
High Alcohol and Red Meat Consumption
Consuming high quantities of red meat and alcohol is linked with the development of fibroids. Women should incorporate fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein in their diet and avoid excessive consumption of red meat and alcohol.
Stress
Recent studies have found a link between chronic stress and an increased risk of developing fibroids. This may be because stress increases the production of cortisol, a hormone that can disrupt the balance of estrogen and progesterone in the body. To reduce your risk, try incorporating stress-reducing activities like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing into your daily routine.
Can Uterine Fibroids Cause Infertility?
In some cases, fibroids can cause fertility issues. They can either block the fallopian tubes or interfere with the embryo’s implantation, leading to difficulty conceiving. Depending on the size and location of your fibroids, your doctor may recommend surgery as a treatment option. If you’re struggling with fertility and have fibroids, it’s essential to make an appointment with a fertility specialist who can accurately diagnose and recommend the best treatment options for your unique situation.
Can Uterine Fibroids Cause Weight Gain?
There is no direct correlation between uterine fibroids and weight gain. However, some women may experience weight gain due to the symptoms associated with their uterine fibroids. Heavy menstrual bleeding, for example, can cause anemia, leading to fatigue and weakness, which can make it hard to stay active and may result in weight gain. Fibroids can also cause water retention and bloating, which can add to the scale number.
Can Uterine Fibroids Be Cancerous?
Uterine fibroids are almost never cancerous, so women can take some comfort in that fact. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), fewer than 1 in 1,000 fibroids are cancerous. However, some types of uterine tumors, such as leiomyosarcomas, can be malignant and have the potential to spread to other parts of the body. This is why it’s essential to get regular check-ups and to monitor any unusual symptoms.
Most women who have fibroids never experience any symptoms. However, some women may develop symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, or frequent urination. When fibroids grow large enough to push on other organs, they can cause discomfort or pain. In the rare cases where fibroids are cancerous, women may experience symptoms such as abdominal swelling and pain, abnormal vaginal bleeding, and a feeling of pressure in the pelvic area.
Diagnosing Uterine Fibroids
Sometimes patients discover uterine fibroids through routine pelvic exams, since they often do not cause any symptoms. The doctor may feel the growth with their fingers or use other imaging tests, such as an ultrasound, X-ray, CT scan or MRI. Other diagnostic tests may include a hysteroscopy or laparoscopy.
A hysteroscopy is a method that allows a doctor to look inside the uterus to diagnose abnormal bleeding. It uses a small apparatus with a camera attached to the end to examine the inside of the uterus. The doctor inserts it through the vagina and into the uterus through the cervix.
On the other hand, a laparoscopy is a surgical, diagnostic operation that doctors use to check the organs inside the abdomen. The doctor inserts a small tube with a lighted camera through the abdominal wall and makes a small opening in the skin of the abdomen to view the organs.
How Uterine Fibroids Are Removed
Whether you opt for surgery, non-invasive procedures, or natural remedies, the key is to stay empowered and take control of your health. Remember to consult with your doctor and seek support from loved ones as you navigate this journey toward healing and recovery.
Surgical Procedures for Uterine Fibroids
For many women, surgery may be the best option for removing fibroids. There are several surgical procedures that your doctor may recommend based on your health condition and preferences. These include hysterectomy, myomectomy, and endometrial ablation. Hysterectomy is the complete removal of the uterus, while myomectomy removes only the fibroids and preserves the uterus. Endometrial ablation is a minimally invasive procedure that uses heat or freezing to destroy the lining of the uterus, which can reduce heavy bleeding caused by fibroids.
Non-Invasive Procedures for Uterine Fibroids
If surgery is not an option for you, there are also non-invasive procedures that can help shrink or destroy fibroids. These include uterine artery embolization, magnetic resonance-guided focused ultrasound, and radiofrequency ablation. Uterine artery embolization is a technique that blocks the blood supply to the fibroids, causing them to shrink over time. Magnetic resonance-guided focused ultrasound uses high-intensity sound waves to destroy fibroids without incisions. Radiofrequency ablation uses heat energy to destroy fibroids via a small incision in the abdomen.
Natural Remedies for Uterine Fibroids
If you prefer to try natural remedies before considering medical treatment, there are also several options that you can explore. These include changes in diet and lifestyle, herbal supplements, and acupuncture. Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help regulate hormones and reduce inflammation in the body. Herbal supplements such as chasteberry, black cohosh, and cinnamon have been shown to relieve symptoms of fibroids. Acupuncture has also been found to be effective in reducing fibroid-related pain and discomfort.
Uterine Fibroid Treatment
Fibroids often grow slowly or not at all. In some cases they shrink on their own, especially after menopause. Most patients are not even aware of them unless they cause symptoms. A doctor can come up with the best plan for treatment. Treatment may depend on the fibroid’s location and size and whether it causes symptoms. The doctor will also take into account the patient’s age and whether they may want to have children in the future.
Medication
In mild cases, a doctor may recommend medication for pain or heavy bleeding. In addition, the patient may find relief from birth control pills or hormone injections to help control the symptoms.
Hormone Therapy
One option for treating uterine fibroids is through hormone therapy. This treatment works by regulating the hormones that cause the growth of fibroids. However, this treatment may not be effective for all women, and side effects can include hot flashes, mood changes, and weight gain.
Dietary Changes
Changes in behavior may also have significant effects on uterine fibroids, such as dietary choices and other healthy lifestyle practices. For example, patients should focus on foods that may help detoxify the body, such as kale, turnips, arugula, radishes, broccoli, cabbage and watercress. Food with carotenoids are also a good choice for everyday health, such as spinach, sweet potatoes, apricots, cantaloupe and pumpkin. Anti-inflammatory foods like fresh rosemary and pineapple may also help reduce inflammation, according to experts. Try to include foods with vitamin E, such as hazelnuts, cod, almonds and wheat germ. In addition, green tea may also help neutralize estrogen and its effects that may contribute to uterine fibroids (x).
In addition to dietary changes, patients may also benefit their overall reproductive health with vitamins. Try to take daily vitamins or multivitamins with vitamin C powder, Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol), Vitamin E (400 IU) (Softgels), Folic Acid (Vitamin B9), vitamin A, vitamin B1 (thiamine), riboflavin (vitamin B2), niacin (vitamin B3), Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6) and vitamin B12.
Why Uterine Fibroids Grow
Hormones play a significant role in uterine fibroid growth, particularly estrogen and progesterone, which are responsible for stimulating the uterine lining during each menstrual cycle. Estrogen is known to promote the growth of uterine fibroids, and higher levels of this hormone can make them bigger. However, the levels of estrogen alone are not enough to cause uterine fibroids. Other factors, such as genetic predisposition and environmental factors, can also contribute to their development.
Supplements for Female Reproductive Health
Patients may also find relief from natural dietary supplements. They may improve overall reproductive health, but they are not a cure for uterine fibroids or any other medical condition. Consult a doctor before taking any supplements.
Vitamin C Powder
Vitamin C is essential in maintaining a healthy reproductive system. It has antioxidant properties that help reduce inflammation in the body, which can trigger the growth of fibroids. Studies have shown that taking vitamin C supplements can help reduce the size of fibroids and even alleviate some of the symptoms that come with them like heavy bleeding.
Folic Acid (Vitamin B9)
Folic acid is essential for overall reproductive health and helps to reduce inflammation in the body. Studies have shown that women who take folic acid supplements had a lower risk of developing uterine fibroids. Folic acid is also essential when trying to conceive, so it is a supplement to add to your daily routine.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A plays a vital role in maintaining healthy ovaries and overall reproductive health. It has been found that women with fibroids are deficient in vitamin A. Taking vitamin A supplements can help reduce the size of fibroids and even prevent the development of new ones.
Vitamin B1 (Thiamine), Riboflavin (Vitamin B2), Niacin (Vitamin B3), Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), and Vitamin B12
These essential B vitamins play a vital role in maintaining optimal health. They work together to regulate hormones, reduce inflammation, and alleviate painful symptoms associated with fibroids. Vitamin B1 (Thiamine), Riboflavin (Vitamin B2), Niacin (Vitamin B3), Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), and Vitamin B12 can be purchases through Bulksupplements.com.
DHEA
DHEA is a hormone that the body produces to make other male and female sex hormones. Research states that it can have a positive effect on reproductive health and fertility. As a dietary supplement, the recommended dosage for DHEA powder is 5 mg a day. After one to two weeks, the patient may be able to increase the dosage to 25 mg. Only use a milligram scale to measure the doses and make sure to consult a doctor for approval.
Coenzyme Q10
Coenzyme Q10 is a natural vitamin in the body. The food we eat contains plenty of CoQ10. It acts as an antioxidant, which plays an essential part in metabolism and prevents cell damage. COQ10 may also be an effective tool to improve fertility. The recommended daily dosage of coenzyme Q10 powder is 50 to 200 mg a day. Discuss dosage with a doctor to ensure safety.
Zinc
Zinc is a mineral the body needs for overall maintenance and growth. It may also help improve fertility. After iron, it is the second most abundant mineral in the body. The human body cannot produce zinc on its own, so it’s important to get it from food or supplements. The recommended dosage for zinc gluconate powder is between 225 and 400 mg per day. Do not exceed 450 mg a day and always consult a doctor before taking this supplement.
Fish Oil
Species like herring, mackerel, tuna, cod liver and salmon are especially rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Fish oil may be a helpful tool for several different health conditions, including heart health and kidney health. Research states that the vitamin D in fish oil may be effective to reduce uterine fibroids. As a dietary supplement, take two fish oil softgels between two and three times a day after consulting a doctor for approval.
DIM (diindolylmethane)
DIM is a natural compound found in cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and kale. It has been shown to support healthy estrogen balance, which is beneficial in preventing and reducing the size of fibroids. DIM helps convert estrogen to a less harmful form, thereby reducing estrogen dominance, which is linked to fibroid growth. DIM is a great supplement to aid in preventing fibroids, and if they’re already present, it will slow their growth.
Vitex (Chaste Berry)
Vitex has been used for centuries to regulate menstrual cycles and hormones in women. It is an excellent supplement for women with estrogen dominance, PCOS, and uterine fibroids. Vitex supplements helps balance estrogen and progesterone levels, which makes it effective in shrinking fibroids.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a staple in Ayurvedic medicine and is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It has been found to inhibit the growth of fibroid cells and shrink their size. Turmeric is also a natural pain reliever which makes it an excellent supplement for women experiencing painful periods due to fibroids.
Milk Thistle
Milk Thistle has been shown to protect the liver and aid in detoxification. It helps reduce the excess estrogen in the body that is linked to fibroid growth. Milk Thistle supplement can be beneficial in preventing the development of fibroids and supporting liver health
Conclusion
Uterine fibroids are common among women of childbearing age. They are benign (noncancerous) growths that develop in the uterus. In some cases, they do not even cause symptoms. However, some patients do experience symptoms like pelvic pain, heavy menstrual bleeding and prolonged menstrual cycles. Researchers have not discovered the exact cause, but there are several factors that play a role. Hormones, specifically estrogen and progesterone, help regulate the female reproductive system and they fluctuate naturally. This may play a role in uterine fibroid development. Other risk factors include family history, age and weight.
Because most patients do not experience symptoms, physicians often discover them during routine pelvic exams and many cases do not require treatment. However, patients may need medication or surgical procedures to reduce the fibroids. In addition, a physician may also approve dietary supplements to complement other treatment methods. They do not completely cure uterine fibroids or any other medical condition, but they may help improve overall health.
Uterine fibroids can be a painful and frustrating condition for women. Natural supplements like DIM, Vitex, Turmeric, and Milk Thistle can be incredibly beneficial and effective in preventing and reducing the size of fibroids, as well as regulating menstrual cycles and hormones. Supplements in addition to lifestyle changes, like eating a healthy, balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress reduction, can help heal your body and maintain optimal health. Remember, before starting any supplement regimen, it is important to consult with your doctor or health care provider to ensure that you are taking the right supplements for your specific needs. Try these natural supplements today and say goodbye to uterine fibroids for good!
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease
