Fibroids

Fibroids

Uterine fibroids represent the most common gynecological benign tumors in reproductive females. Around 20 -25% of women get fibroids. Most fibroids grow in the wall of the uterus. There are three groups based on where they grow:

·        Submucosal - fibroids grow into the uterine cavity.

·        Intramural - fibroids grow within the wall of the uterus.

·        Subserosal - fibroids grow on the outside of the uterus.

Some fibroids grow on stalks that grow out from the surface of the uterus or into the cavity of the uterus. They might look like mushrooms, and these are called pedunculated fibroids.

Symptoms of fibroids:

Most fibroids do not cause any symptoms, but women with fibroids can sometimes experience the following:

·        Heavy bleeding (which can be heavy enough to cause anemia) or painful periods

·        Feeling of fullness in the pelvic area (lower stomach area)

·        Enlargement of the lower abdomen

·        Frequent urination

·        Pain during sex

·        Lower back pain

·        Complications during pregnancy and labor

·        General Reproductive concerns

What causes fibroids?
Fibroids can be caused by hormonal changes (progesterone and estrogen) and genetics according to western medicine.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) view point:

Symptoms and treatment:

In TCM fibroids occur due to qi and blood stagnation. The bodies natural processes are not flowing properly as they should and eventually stagnate, which overtime can cause fibroids. Fibroids can be presented differently in patients. Acupuncture points are used to help move qi and blood to increase circulation in the area in order to resolve the fibroid masses. Herbal medicine is often used in conjunction with acupuncture to further help regulate blood inside and outside the uterus.

Stagnation of qi and blood are harder and immovable lesions, pain/discomfort in the lower abdomen, can have amenorrhea, painful periods, late periods.

Damp and Phlegm stagnation can also occur and will have symptoms of sputum in the throat, excessive vaginal discharge, cysts, larger in body size, craving sugars and carbohydrates.

Treatment:
Acupuncture, herbal medicine and lifestyle adjustments can help decrease or eliminate fibroids. Consistent treatment for a period of time is recommended to achieve success. If you are struggling with fibroids, please contact us for further information on how we can support you.

5 things you can do at home to help promote blood flow in the uterus:

1. Add turmeric and saffron to your food to help promote blood flow.

2. Fish oil (increase your omega 3 intake) helps promote blood flow and reduce inflammation.

3. Increase your antioxidant intake (Goji berries, spirulina, dark leafy greens, green tea).   

4. Hot and Cold showers to help promote blood circulation.  (Check out our blog post on contrast showers).

5. Deep breathing and meditative practices.

For further questions or perpsective contact your health pracitioner.