-IBIS-1.7.6-
tx
reproductive system
Uterine fibroids
Integrative Therapies

Home Care

Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths on the wall of the uterus that tend to develop in women past the age of 35. Pregnancy, oral contraceptives, and estrogen will often enlarge these growths. They usually shrink after a woman finishes menopause because of hormonal changes, but they are difficult to get rid of completely. Removal of uterine fibroids is, in many cases, unnecessary unless they cause complications or are larger than a baseball (about 2 inches).

Often there are no symptoms. However, some symptoms that may be present include bleeding between menstrual periods, excessive menstrual flow, stomach and low back pain, difficulty with urination, having miscarriages, or difficulty getting pregnant. Large uterine fibroids may cause an enlargement of the uterus, which can look like pregnancy.

Consult a physician for any menstrual bleeding that is heavier than normal. If you have a history of fibroid tumors and you become pregnant, inform your physician immediately to take steps to avoid a miscarriage.

If you are using "the Pill," consult your health care practitioner about switching to a non-hormonal form of birth control such as a diaphragm or cervical cap.


THE PROPER DIET FOR UTERINE FIBROIDS WILL INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING:

In an effort to reduce the amount of Estrogen precursors taken in through foods:

1. Avoid dairy products, including milk, cheese, yogurt, and sour cream.

2. Switch to a vegetarian diet. This includes using fresh foods as close to the natural, unprocessed state as possible. A healthy diet includes leafy green vegetables, whole grains, fruit, and proteins with a minimum of animal fat since most animal products contain estrogen, which enlarges the fibroids.

3. If you must eat meat, eat it in small quantities and use only the hormone-free "organic" varieties that are available at health food stores.

4. Reduce the use of fats such as butter, mayonnaise, and nut butters.

5. Eliminate caffeine-containing foods such as coffee, black tea, sodas, and chocolates.


HERBS USED FOR UTERINE FIBROIDS:

1. Dandelion Root tincture, which is a liquid herbal extract – 60 drops 2 to 3 times per day in water. Or in a capsule form – 2 capsules 3 times a day.

2. Yellow Dock Root tincture – 25 to 40 drops, 3 times per day.

3. Dong Quai, a Chinese herb, also known as Angelica sinensis, is one of the most effective herbal uterine tonics and hormonal regulators. To avoid stomach distress, it is best to take Dong Quai in a tincture that combines it with other herbs such as Licorice and Chasteberry (Vitex). The usual dose is 15 to 25 drops of each herb 3 times a day.


PHYSICAL THERAPY MEASURES INCLUDE:

1. Swedish massage, Shiatsu, and other types of bodywork – These can help to increase the circulation to the pelvis, relieving pain and sometimes reducing the size of the fibroids.

2. Castor oil packs – Rub castor oil on your stomach and cover with plastic. Place a warm towel on top of the plastic. Rest in this way for 1 1/2 hours, 3 times per week.


Clinic

Footnotes

BarShalom R, Soileau J. (eds.) Natural Health Hotline. Beaverton, OR: Integrative Medical Arts, 1991-1999.