Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous tumours of the uterus. They are also known medically as leiomyomata, myomas or uterine polyps. These fibroids can vary in size from microscopic to many pounds. Oftentimes, uterine fibroids develop as a result of an imbalance of two hormones called progesterone and estrogen. Fibroids are two to three times more likely to develop in women of African descent.
Risk factors for uterine fibroids include obesity (excess fat stores estrogen), exposure to synthetic estrogenic compounds (BPA, pesticides, herbicides, and the synthetic hormones in meat and dairy products). Hypertension, IUD use, and history of polycystic ovarian syndrome are also risk factors.
Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids
Women with uterine fibroids are often asymptomatic, meaning they have no symptoms and are completely unaware they have them. However, some women do have symptoms.
These symptoms include:
- Abdominal pressure and pain
- Pain during intercourse
- Lower back pain
- Excessive menstrual cramping
- Excessive menstrual bleeding
- Lengthy menstrual cycle
- Frequent urinary urges
- Infertility
- Miscarriages
How to Treat Uterine Fibroids at Home
If uterine fibroids are large and obstructive, your doctor may advise a hysterectomy. This is a major surgical procedure with potential side effects such as infection, internal hemorrhage during or following surgery and/or damage to the urinary tract or bowel.
It is possible to treat uterine fibroids at home before resorting to surgery to remove your reproductive organs.
- Make Dietary Changes
To reduce your risk of exposure to pesticides, eat organic food whenever possible. It is also a good idea to get more fiber in your diet as it helps reduce excess estrogen in your body. The less synthetic chemicals and the more real, nourishing food you eat, the better for your overall health.
- Reduce Exposure to Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals
Your environment could be filled with endocrine-disrupting chemicals that may have contributed to your uterine fibroid development. Make sure your bottles, glasses, and dishware are free of BPA (Bisphenol A) and your cosmetics and cleaning products are organic.
- Castor Oil Packs
Castor oil packs have been used for hundreds of years to stimulate circulation and improve your body’s natural detoxification process. When you use them, oxygenated, nutrient-rich blood is circulated to your reproductive organs, assisting your body in the important process of healing itself.
(Do not use castor oil packs during menstruation).
- Proteolytic Enzymes
Proteolytic enzymes are protein-digesting enzymes that help to reduce inflammation and dissolve fibrous tissue. Serrapeptase is an example of one such proteolytic enzyme. Since fibroids are composed of fibrin, this supplement can help naturally dissolve them.
- Cordyceps Medicinal Mushrooms
Medicinal mushrooms are functional foods that go beyond simple nutrition by supporting healthy immune function and the body’s ability to adapt to stress. According to www.DrTerryWillard.com, Cordyceps medicinal mushrooms have been shown to “simulate immune function by activating T-cells and B-cells, while increasing interleukin-1 (but not 2) and gamma-interferon.”
When you treat uterine fibroids at home, you are given the opportunity to reconnect with your body by giving it the nourishment and natural remedies it needs to heal on its own.