One of the most common reproductive health issues women face today are uterine fibroids. There are some key factors to consider when working to help your body get rid of uterine fibroids. I cover it all in this video. Below are my notes from the live video recording I did. Download the Instagram App to watch our live broadcasts!
Uterine Fibroids 101
Types of Uterine Fibroids
Submucosal: grow in the innermost layer of the uterus
Intramural: grow in the middle layer of the uterus
Subserosal: grow in the outer wall of the uterus
Pedunculated: attached to a stalk either outside of the uterus or within the uterine cavity
Cervical: in the cervical tissue
Interligamentous: between the uterine broad ligaments
Why can uterine fibroids get so big?
Uterine fibroids are hormone dependent. They develop during the hormonally active years and decline in menopause.
Fibroid tissue has a higher number of estrogen and progesterone receptor sites. Fibroid tissue is hypersensitive to estrogen, but does not have the capacity to regulate estrogen response, this is why they can grow to become quite large.
How Uterine Fibroids Impact Fertility & Pregnancy Health
- Interference with implantation of the ovum
- Compressing the fallopian tubes, preventing conception
- Anovulatory cycles
- Abnormal uterine blood flow, hindering movement of sperm to ova
- Miscarriage
- Intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR)
- Premature rupture of the membranes
- Contributing to retained placenta after birth
- A postpartum hemorrhage
- An abnormal labor
Not all women with uterine fibroids will experience these kinds of troubles and many go on to have healthy pregnancies even with uterine fibroids present.
Because there are risks to your fertility and possibly pregnancy, it is best to work to reduce fibroid growth, prevent formation of new fibroids, and maintain healthy lifestyle choices to continue working to bring about the best possible uterine health.
Fibroids are two to three times more likely to develop in African American women compared to any other ethnicity.
Medical Options for Treatment
- surgical removal
- hysterectomy
Important note: Medical procedures do not stop uterine fibroids from growing back. Lifestyle factors are a great way to support the body in preventing regrowth.
Natural Options for Uterine Fibroids
When working with uterine fibroids, we like to focus on cleansing, reducing exposure to xenoestrogens, promoting healthy estrogen metabolism and improving uterine health.
Step 1: Cleanse
Fertility Cleansing – Improves liver health in order to metabolize hormones properly and it increases circulation to the uterus.
Avoid Xenoestrogens:
- Eat organic foods
- Avoid exposure to pesticides, herbicides and synthetic fertilizers
- Use natural feminine care products
- Avoid food preservatives and dyes
- Use low VOC paints
- Use recycled unbleached paper products
- Use non-chlorinated oxygen-based bleach in the laundry
- Avoid plastics
- Use organic, natural body care products, including makeup
Step 2: Diet Tips for Reducing Uterine Fibroids
Eat a Whole Food Diet
Without eating a whole food diet, the body will not respond to herbs, supplements or natural therapies as well. We suggest eating a nutrient-dense whole food fertility diet. This way of eating will create a foundation for a healthy, properly functioning body.
The Importance of Fiber
Your main focus and one of the first things you should do right now is eat more fiber. Fiber helps the body to get rid of excess estrogens. Eat a diet rich in legumes, fresh vegetables, and fruits.
Good sources of fiber:
- dark leafy greens
- broccoli
- Swiss chard
- quinoa
- chia seeds
- beans
- ground flaxseed
- whole grains – brown rice, millet, spelt, buckwheat, rye and oats
Avoid Anti-nutrients
Avoid saturated fats, sugar, caffeine, alcohol, and junk foods—all of which may contribute to estrogen dominance. We consider these anti-nutrients, which impact fertility negatively.
Step 3: Natural Therapies
DIM (diindolylmethane) – supports healthy estrogen metabolism
Herbs
Fibro Defense – The herbs in this blend work with your body’s natural detoxification processes to clear congested foreign tissues, while simultaneously helping to prevent new growths from forming. Fibro Defense is an excellent way to promote the health and function of uterine tissues.
Fertility Massage and Castor Oil packs – clears congestion, improves circulation and detoxification while softening the underlying tissues
Fertility Massage Options:
- Self Fertility Massage – apply for a minimum of 3 nights a week, up to every night
- Maya Abdominal Massage
- Mercier Therapy
Systemic Enzymes – break down foreign tissues and proteins within the body
Resources talked about in this video:
Safe and Chic
Citrine Natural Beauty Bar
List of Natural Products That Support Uterine Health
