Uterine fibroids: the most effective dietary supplements

A uterine fibroid, also called a leiomyoma, is a benign tumor of the uterus that develops from the smooth muscle of the myometrium. It appears as rounded, well-circumscribed masses and can be located in different areas of the uterus. There are several types of fibroids depending on their location: submucosal fibroid (located beneath the uterine lining, bulging into the uterine cavity), intramural fibroid (situated within the thickness of the myometrium), transmural fibroid (in contact with the endometrium and the serosa), and subserosal fibroid (located on the periphery of the uterus).

Etiopathogenesis

Uterine fibroids develop in a context of relative hyperestrogenism, often associated with endometrial hyperplasia. This hormonal condition favors the growth of fibroids. Several risk factors have been identified, notably age, with the majority of fibroids appearing in women aged 30 to 50, as well as ethnicity, with women of African descent having an increased risk. A family history of fibroids can also increase the risk of developing this condition.

Symptoms

Uterine fibroids can be asymptomatic or cause various symptoms depending on their size, number and location. Among the most common manifestations are metrorrhagia, abnormal uterine bleeding which can be heavy. Women may also suffer from menorrhagia and hypermenorrhea, with particularly heavy and prolonged periods. rnrnPelvic pain, characterized by a feeling of heaviness or discomfort in the lower abdomen, may occur. An increase in abdominal volume can also be observed. In cases of compression of neighboring organs, signs such as frequent urge to urinate, urinary retention, incontinence, or rectal compression causing difficulty with defecation may appear.

Complications

Fibroids can lead to several complications, including iron-deficiency anemia caused by chronic heavy bleeding. Another common complication is aseptic necrobiosis, which corresponds to degeneration of the fibroid, particularly during pregnancy. It manifests with symptoms such as fever, pelvic pain and metrorrhagia. In addition, compression of adjacent organs can cause renal colic, hydronephrosis, as well as urinary disorders such as urinary retention. Other signs include edema of the lower limbs or paresthesias.

Treatment

The management of uterine fibroids is based on an individualized approach, adapted to symptom severity, fibroid location, and the patient’s fertility desires. Options include: rnrn• GnRH agonists (e.g., Decapeptyl, Eligard): These treatments induce a reversible menopause to reduce the size of fibroids before surgery, although they are used for a short duration due to their side effects, notably bone demineralization. rnrn• Exogenous progestogens (Utrogestan, Duphaston, Lutényl): They help reduce bleeding but may cause weight gain, water retention or worsening of venous disorders. rnrn• Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs): Raloxifene is sometimes used to reduce the size of fibroids. rnrn• Tranexamic acid (Exacyl): This antifibrinolytic reduces heavy bleeding related to fibroids. rnrn• Surgery: It is indicated for large or symptomatic fibroids. Options include hysteroscopic resection for submucosal fibroids, myomectomy to preserve fertility, or hysterectomy for severe cases.

Naturopathic protocols

To support the management of uterine fibroids naturally, several strategies can be considered: rnrn• Regulation of hyperestrogenism: Plants such as chaste tree, yarrow and lady's mantle promote hormonal balance by reducing estrogen dominance. Gemmotherapy, using buds of the bilberry, also supports hormonal balance. rnrn• Management of bleeding: Witch hazel is effective at reducing uterine bleeding thanks to its hemostatic properties. rnrn• Detoxification and liver support: Plants like milk thistle, desmodium and artichoke support liver functions, improving estrogen metabolism. rnrn• Support of connective tissue: Silica-rich plants such as horsetail strengthen connective tissue, reducing the risk of fibrosis. Organic silicon, taken as a course twice a year, complements this protocol. rnrn• Management of stress and inflammation: Adaptogenic plants, such as rhodiola or ashwagandha, reduce vulnerability to stress, an aggravating factor of hormonal imbalances. In case of pain, natural anti-inflammatories like turmeric can be useful, provided contraindications are respected. rnrn