Uterine Fibroids: Do's and Don'ts

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Sometimes, the only way to treat fibroids is with medication or surgery. But some people can improve their symptoms simply by making changes to their diet, exercise, and stress management habits. Even if you need medical interventions, natural methods like acupuncture, lifestyle changes, and nutritional supplements can help you feel better. By understanding all of your options before you start making them, you can reduce or even eliminate the pain and other symptoms you have from fibroids.

1. Symptoms of uterine fibroids

Many women with fibroids do not have any symptoms. In most cases, the symptoms of fibroids can be influenced by the location, size, and number of the fibroids.
In women with symptoms, the most common signs and symptoms of fibroids include:
Heavy menstrual bleeding Menstruation lasting more than a week Pelvic pressure or pain Frequent urination Difficulty emptying the bladder Constipation Back or leg pain Rarely, a person may experience acute pain, unless fibroids rapidly outgrow the blood supply and begin to die.
Fibroids are often classified by their location. Intramuscular fibroids grow in the muscular wall of the uterus. Submucosal fibroids enlarge into the lumen of the uterus. Subserosal fibroids often grow outside the uterus.
See your doctor right away if you have any of the following:
Persistent pelvic pain that doesn't go away Heavy, prolonged, or painful bleeding during menstruation Bleeding between periods Difficulty emptying the bladder unexplained low red blood cell count (anemia) Get medical help right away or call 911 if you have severe vaginal bleeding or sudden sharp pelvic pain.

2. Causes of uterine fibroids

Doctors do not know the specific cause of uterine fibroids, but research and clinical experience indicate the following:
Gene changes. Many fibroids contain changes in genes that are different from those in normal uterine myocytes. Hormonal. Estrogen and progesterone, two hormones that stimulate the growth of the lining of the uterus during each menstrual cycle in preparation for pregnancy, appear to promote the growth of fibroids. Fibroids contain more estrogen and progesterone receptors than normal uterine muscle cells. Fibroids tend to shrink after menopause due to a decrease in hormone production. Other growth factors. Substances that help the body maintain tissues, such as insulin-like growth factor, can influence fibroid growth. Extracellular matrix (ECM). ECM is the material that makes cells stick together, like mortar between bricks. ECM increases in fibroids and causes them to become fibrous. The ECM also stores growth factors and induces biological changes in the cell itself. Doctors believe that fibroids develop from a stem cell in the smooth muscle tissue of the uterus. A single cell divides many times, eventually creating a hard, rubbery mass that is distinct from neighboring tissues. The growth patterns of uterine fibroids vary. Fibroids grow quickly or slowly, or they may stay the same size. Some fibroids go through a growth phase, and some may shrink on their own. Many fibroids that appear during pregnancy shrink or disappear after pregnancy, as the uterus returns to its normal size.
There are very few known risk factors for uterine fibroids, other than women of reproductive age. Factors that may have an impact on fibroid growth include:
Race. Although any woman of childbearing age can develop fibroids, black women are more likely to develop fibroids than women of other racial groups. Additionally, black women get fibroids at a younger age, and they're also more likely to have more or larger fibroids, along with more severe symptoms. Genetic. If your mother or sister had fibroids, you're more likely to have them. Other factors. Start menstruating at an early age; fat ; vitamin D deficiency; have a diet high in red meat and low in green vegetables, fruits and dairy; and drinking alcohol, including beer, seems to increase the risk of developing fibroids.

3. Complications of uterine fibroids

Although fibroids are not usually dangerous, they can be uncomfortable and can lead to complications such as low red blood cells (anemia), fatigue, and heavy blood loss. However, fibroids rarely require a blood transfusion due to blood loss.
Pregnancy and uterine fibroids
Fibroids usually do not interfere with pregnancy. However, it is possible that uterine fibroids - especially submucosal fibroids - can cause infertility or miscarriage. Fibroids can also increase the risk of certain pregnancy complications, such as placental abruption, fetal growth restriction, and premature birth.

4. What should uterine fibroids eat and do?

Eat lots of fresh fruits and vegetables.
A recent study shows that eating a lot of fruits like apples and tomatoes, and cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cabbage, can reduce the risk of developing fibroids. And, eating healthier foods like organic fruits and vegetables, whole grain foods can help improve your symptoms.
Monitor your blood pressure on a regular basis
Researchers have shown a strong link between uterine fibroids and high blood pressure. Talk to your doctor about how to manage your blood pressure through changes in your diet, lifestyle, or medication.
Manage your stress level.
While researchers are still looking at the effects of stress on fibroid growth, some studies suggest that the two factors may be related. Try relaxation techniques like yoga, massage, and tai chi to help manage your stress. Some women find that alternative therapies such as acupuncture can also help with menstrual cramps.
Make yourself comfortable.
If you are experiencing menstrual cramps due to fibroids, try lying down and prop your legs up with a pillow. Or lie on your side and bring your knees to your chest to relieve pressure on your back.
Talk to your doctor before trying any dietary supplement.
There is some research showing that supplements like vitamin D may be helpful in reducing the risk of uterine fibroids. While some doctors may recommend supplements like raspberry leaf tea to aid in pregnancy and treat problems like PMS, it's not recommended for fibroids. That's because tea can have an estrogen-like effect on your body and make your symptoms worse. That's why it's always important to discuss all medications and supplements - even if they're naturally derived - with your doctor. They can have side effects that you're not aware of.

5. What should not be done with uterine fibroids?

Avoid eating a diet high in processed foods, red meat, and high-fat dairy.
Studies show that consuming these foods can make your fibroids worse. Same goes for alcohol and caffeine.
Don't neglect your fitness training.
One study found that women who exercised the most (about 7 hours per week in activities like running, dancing, or walking) had the lowest risk of developing fibroids. Exercise can also help lower blood pressure.
Do not abuse using sugar.
One study found that eating a diet high in sugar may lead to a higher risk of uterine fibroids.
Do not smoke.
Experts believe that smoking can worsen menstrual cramps because it reduces the amount of oxygen reaching your pelvic area.
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Reference source: webmd.com