Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in the female uterus. They are benign and consist of muscle and fibrous tissue. Uterine fibroids may vary in size, number, and location within the uterus.
These growths can cause heavy menstrual bleeding, prolonged periods, pelvic pain or pressure, frequent urination, constipation, painful intercourse, and lower back or leg pain. Some women may not experience any symptoms at all.
The exact reason for uterine fibroids is not understood, but hormone changes, genetic factors, and lifestyle choices may contribute to their development. Having a family history of uterine fibroids increases the risk of developing them. Doctors can diagnose uterine fibroids through imaging tests such as ultrasound, MRI, or CT scans. Treatment for uterine fibroids usually depends on the severity of symptoms. Medicines, minimally invasive procedures, or surgery may be recommended to manage symptoms or remove the uterine fibroids.
Although uterine fibroids are typically benign, they can occasionally lead to complications such as infertility, miscarriage, or problems during pregnancy and childbirth.
Role of homeopathy in uterine fibroids
Uterine fibroids can be managed with homeopathy by addressing the symptoms. Homeopathic medicines help in providing symptomatic relief for pain, menstrual irregularities, and heavy bleeding associated with uterine fibroids.
Five homeopathic medicines for uterine fibroids
Pulsatilla
Common name: Windflower
Pulsatilla is indicated for irregular periods, fluctuating moods, and a tendency to be emotional or dependent. It is commonly prescribed for women who are gentle, submissive, and prone to being emotional. There is a desire for indulgent or fatty foods while having an aversion to fatty foods or meat. Symptoms worsen in warm rooms or during the evening and improve with fresh air or light exercise.
Thuja occidentalis
Common name: White cedar
Thuja is prescribed for slow-growing uterine fibroids, abnormal growths, or a tendency towards cysts in other areas of the body. It is recommended for individuals with a history of vaccination or suppressed skin conditions. The symptoms worsen in warm or damp weather, along with emotional sensitivity and a preference for privacy or seclusion. Skin issues like warts, moles, or skin tags may also exist.
Phosphorus
Common name: Phosphorus
Phosphorus is indicated when the symptoms involve excessive menstrual bleeding, weakness, anxiety, and a need for companionship or reassurance. The individual possesses a sensitive, imaginative, and sympathetic disposition. There is fatigue, particularly after the menstrual cycle, along with anxiety, fearfulness, and a tendency to worry about what lies ahead. There is a strong desire for cold beverages or ice cream and they exhibit sensitivity to external stimuli such as light, noise, or odors.
Natrum muriaticum
Common name: Common salt
Natrum muriaticum is indicated for irregular menstrual cycles, emotional suppression, and a preference for solitude. They experience heavy bleeding or spotting between periods, struggle to express emotions, particularly grief or disappointment, and have an aversion to receiving comfort or sympathy. They may also have a craving for salty foods or a tendency to prefer salt in their diet. The symptoms may worsen in warm environments, such as hot rooms or under the sun.
Calcarea carbonica
Common name: Calcium carbonate
Calcarea carbonica is recommended for heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and overall weakness or fatigue. It may also be considered if there is a tendency towards obesity or excessive sweating. There is a sensation of weight or pressure in the lower abdomen, along with cold extremities and intolerance to cold weather. Fatigue and weakness, particularly during physical exertion, are also common. There are cravings for eggs or indigestible substances like chalk or dirt.
Causative factors of uterine fibroids
Your chances of developing a uterine fibroid are higher due to the following risk factors:
- Age (older women have a higher risk compared to younger women)
- Obesity
- Family history of uterine fibroids
- High blood pressure
- No previous history of pregnancy
- Vitamin D deficiency
- Consumption of food additives
- Use of soybean milk
Symptoms of uterine fibroids
- Excessive bleeding during periods.
- Bleeding between periods.
- A feeling of fullness or heaviness in the lower belly (bloating).
- Frequent urination.
- Pain during sex.
- Low back pain.
- Constipation or feeling pressure on your rectum.
- Long-term vaginal discharge.
- Inability to pee or empty your bladder.
- Increased abdominal distention (enlargement) causing the abdomen to look pregnant.
Treatment for uterine fibroids
Conventional treatment for uterine fibroids typically involves hormonal therapy and pain medication. In severe cases where fertility may be a concern, surgical options like myomectomy or hysterectomy (uterus removal) may be considered. If symptoms aren’t very severe, then the person is kept under observation with regular follow ups to track changes in the fibroid size and symptoms.
Diet and lifestyle modification in uterine fibroids
Diet
Include fruits and green vegetables in your diet to reduce the risk of uterine fibroid. Follow the Mediterranean diet to lower the risk of fibroids. Reduce the intake of phytoestrogens like soy, cabbage, berries, plum, beans, etc. to maintain adequate estrogen levels.
Lose weight
Maintaining your ideal body weight helps you lose the extra fat in your body. Fat cells produce estrogen and may result in higher risk of uterine fibroids.
Avoid endocrine disruptors
Certain chemicals can cause hormonal imbalance resulting in high estrogen levels in your body. Avoid these endocrine disruptors which are found in fertilizers, pesticides, BPA plastic, nonstick cookware, dyes, paints, and beauty products.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D helps reduce your risk of fibroids. Ensure you get your daily dose of sunshine to improve your vitamin D levels. Include egg yolk, milk, cheese, fortified cereals, and cod liver oil in your diet.
Conclusion
Uterine fibroids present significant obstacles to women’s health, often resulting in symptoms such as pelvic pain, heavy menstrual bleeding, and reproductive issues. While treatments such as surgery and medications can relieve, they may carry potential risks and side effects. Homeopathy offers symptomatic relief, delivering a gentle and comprehensive approach to managing symptoms. Seeking guidance from a qualified homeopath can offer tailored and personalized care, enabling women to naturally and effectively address uterine fibroids.
References
- Uterine fibroids [Internet]. Medlineplus.gov. [cited 2024 Mar 19]. Available from: https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000914.htm
- Iqbal Jahan Quadri, MD Shahid Ali, B Vatsalya, Hima Bindu Ponnam and Nikhat Parveen S: Role of homeopathic medicines in treating uterine fibroid: a prospective observational study. Ijrh.org. [cited 2024 Mar 19]. Available from: https://www.ijrh.org/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1684&context=journal
- Varanasi R, Oberai P, Indira B, Rath P, Sharma B, Soren A, et al. A multicentric randomized clinical trial of homeopathic medicines in fifty millesimal potencies vis-à -vis centesimal potencies on symptomatic uterine fibroids. Ind J Res Homeopat [Internet]. 2016;10(1):24. Available from: https://nhrimh.ac.in/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/23pub.pdf
- Qindeel Fatima: Efficacy of homeopathic medicines in the treatment of [Internet]. Homoeopathicjournal.com. [cited 2024 Mar 19]. Available from: https://www.homoeopathicjournal.com/articles/9/1-1-10-112.pdf
- Ponnam, Hima Bindu. (2018). Role of Homoeopathic Medicines in treating Uterine fibroids: A Prospective Observational Study. Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy. 6. 8-14. net. [cited 2024 Mar 18]. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/327916247_Role_of_Homoeopathic_Medicines_in_treating_Uterine_fibroids_A_Prospective_Observational_Study
- Afroza, Tamara & Kamila, Sumanta & Bera, Biswajit. (2023). Homoeopathic Treatment of Uterine fibroids: A Case Report. Homœopathic Links. 36. 10.1055/s-0043-1774387. Researchgate.net. [cited 2024 Mar 18]. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/374854887_Homoeopathic_Treatment_of_Uterine_fibroids_A_Case_Report