Uterine Fibroids: Do’s and Don’ts

Fibroids are the non-cancerous lumps that can grow anywhere in the uterus. They are a type of pelvic tumor being suffered by the women of reproductive age. 

Living with uterine fibroids can be a great struggle for women. The patient may look healthy but remains enveloped by the constant worry that she may start bleeding in public. On the other hand, many of the women experience symptoms but don’t know that they have fibroids.

If left untreated, the problem can become difficult to cure. Here, we’ve compiled a list of things you should and shouldn’t do if you have uterine fibroids –

Some Do’s of Living with Uterine Fibroids

Load Up Your Diet with Fruits And Vegetables

Eating plenty of fruits such as apples, pomegranates, and vegetables such as carrots, sweet potato, broccoli, etc. can reduce the risk of developing fibroids. Including whole-grain foods in your diet can also improve the symptoms.

Listen What Your Body is Saying

Uterine fibroids can cause some painful symptoms and changes such as irregular periods, heaviness in the abdomen, unmanageable menstrual pain, etc. Also, there is a link between fibroids and blood pressure. If all these signs are becoming difficult to control, consult the doctor.

Explain Your Symptoms Clearly

Some women shy away from explaining the symptoms to the physician, thinking that pain and extensive bleeding is normal. It may prevent the doctor from understanding the severity of the problem. So, don’t get embarrassed to tell how you feel and what you experience. 

Know The Treatment Options

There are surgical, as well as non-surgical treatment options available to reduce the symptoms of uterine fibroids. Hysterectomy is a very common surgery to get rid of fibroids. Many of the patients are told that there is no other treatment option for uterine fibroids.

However, when it comes to alleviating the fibroid symptoms, you aren’t restricted to surgery only. Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) is an effective non-surgical procedure you can consider. Don’t hesitate to seek information about the treatment you are getting.

Try To Manage Your Stress Level

Many of the women suffering from fibroid symptoms may feel that they aren’t in control of their mind and body. It causes immense stress on the mind. To avoid this, try relaxation techniques such as meditation, massage, acupuncture, etc.

Some Don’ts of Surviving with Uterine Fibroids

Avoid Eating Processed Foods

Women having a higher intake of processed foods are more likely to have fibroids than those who consume whole foods. Processed foods contain additives such as artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. 

Avoid Exposure To Plastic

It is a common belief that chemicals found in plastic also contribute to the increasing rates of uterine fibroids. Besides this, plastic causes other health hazards as well. Therefore, instead of plastic, use glass to cover food items.

Don’t Skip The Workout Sessions

Women who exercise daily have low chances of developing fibroids. Body fat produces estrogen. Therefore, women with excess fat are likely to have high levels of estrogen, which is believed to be an important cause of uterine fibroids. 

Exercise and workout session helps you to burn calories and manage body weight. This way, it helps to lower the risk of fibroids.

Don’t Take Too Much Alcohol And Caffeine

Women who drink alcohol are at a greater risk of getting fibroid symptoms than those who don’t. The reason is that alcohol leads to an increase in the estrogen hormones in the body. And estrogen is directly linked with fibroids.

Similarly, a higher intake of caffeine in the form of coffee also impacts the hormonal levels that may lead to the development of fibroids. 

Conclusion

These are some of the things to keep in mind if you are suffering from uterine fibroids. Schedule a consultation with the physician and get treatment before the problem becomes more serious.