Fibroids
Uterine fibroids (leiomyomas) are non-cancerous growths that develop in or on the uterus. Composed of smooth muscle and connective tissue, fibroids can range from seedling-sized to large masses that can distort the uterine shape. They are remarkably common, affecting 70-80% of women by age 50, with higher prevalence among African American women. While many fibroids are asymptomatic, approximately 25-30% of women experience significant symptoms requiring treatment. Size, number, and location determine symptom severity and treatment approaches.
Symptoms
- •Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding, sometimes with clotting
- •Pelvic pain, pressure, or feeling of fullness in the lower abdomen
- •Frequent urination or difficulty emptying the bladder completely
- •Constipation or bloating from pressure on the bowels
- •Backache or leg pains from nerve compression
- •Pain during intercourse depending on fibroid location
- •Enlarged abdomen that may be mistaken for pregnancy or weight gain
Causes & Risk Factors
- •Hormonal influence - estrogen and progesterone stimulate fibroid growth
- •Genetic alterations in genes controlling uterine muscle cell growth
- •Growth factors such as insulin-like growth factor promoting cell proliferation
- •Estrogen dominance and impaired estrogen metabolism increasing fibroid risk
- •Inflammation and oxidative stress contributing to fibroid development and growth
Naturopathic Approach
Naturopathic treatment for fibroids focuses on slowing growth, reducing symptoms, and addressing underlying hormonal imbalances rather than surgical intervention when possible. Nutritional strategies emphasize reducing estrogen dominance through increasing fiber intake, supporting liver detoxification, and eliminating xenoestrogens from diet and environment. Anti-inflammatory nutrition rich in cruciferous vegetables, berries, and green tea can help modulate growth factors. Botanical medicines including vitex, milk thistle, and turmeric support hormonal balance and reduce inflammation. Specific nutrients such as vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, and N-acetylcysteine may help slow fibroid growth. Functional testing evaluates hormone metabolism, inflammatory markers, and nutrient status. Lifestyle modifications including maintaining healthy body weight, stress management, and regular exercise support overall hormonal health. This approach aims to manage symptoms, potentially slow or stabilize fibroid growth, and improve quality of life while avoiding or delaying surgery when appropriate.
Related Modalities
Frequently Asked Questions
Can fibroids shrink without surgery?
While fibroids rarely disappear completely without intervention, they may stop growing or even shrink modestly with comprehensive naturopathic care, particularly in perimenopause when estrogen levels naturally decline. Focus is on symptom management, preventing further growth, and improving quality of life. Significant shrinkage typically requires medical or surgical intervention, though natural approaches can be valuable supportive care.
Will fibroids affect my ability to get pregnant?
Most fibroids do not affect fertility, but those that distort the uterine cavity, block fallopian tubes, or are very large may interfere with conception or increase miscarriage risk. Location matters more than size. Submucosal fibroids (inside the uterine cavity) are most likely to affect fertility. Naturopathic preconception care can optimize overall reproductive health while working with fertility specialists when needed.
What size fibroids require treatment?
Treatment decisions depend on symptoms rather than size alone. Small fibroids causing heavy bleeding may need treatment, while large asymptomatic fibroids may only need monitoring. Generally, fibroids larger than a grapefruit (about 10cm), those causing severe symptoms, or those affecting fertility warrant intervention. Naturopathic care can be appropriate for mild to moderate symptoms regardless of fibroid size.
How quickly will I see results with natural treatment?
Symptom improvement, particularly reduced bleeding and pain, may be noticed within 2-3 menstrual cycles. Changes in fibroid size or growth patterns typically take 6-12 months to assess accurately. Optimal results require consistent treatment and lifestyle modifications over time. Regular monitoring through pelvic exams or ultrasound helps track progress and adjust treatment protocols.
References
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Dr. Sanika Kshirsagar, ND
Doctorate of Naturopathic Medicine (ND)
Bastyr University, Kenmore, WA
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