Life for most people is a journey filled with twists, turns, and unexpected challenges. One such challenge that many women face is fibroids. It’s estimated that 20% of all women are currently living with fibroids. While these non-cancerous uterine growths can sometimes disrupt daily life and plans, they shouldn’t define your life.
In this post, we’ll give you six top tips to enjoy life despite fibroids and how to find wellness and love along the way.
Before we dive into how to live with this condition, it’s important to understand it. Once they know what fibroids are and why they occur, people are often able to cope better with the situation. So let’s find out.
Fibroids, also known as uterine leiomyomas, are a non-life threatening condition, incredibly common amongst women of reproductive age. They develop in the muscle walls of the uterus and size can range from less than one centimeter to ten centimetres plus in diameter.
To put those measurements into perspective, that’s the size of a seed, through to the size of a watermelon.
While the exact cause of uterine fibroids isn’t fully understood, genetics and hormonal factors are known to play a pivotal role.
Symptoms can vary greatly from no symptoms at all to heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and even, fertility issues. But remember, you can still lead an enjoyable and fulfilling life despite having fibroids, and that’s what we’re going to talk about here.
Tip #1 – Prioritizing Self-Care
The key to living with fibroids begins with the prioritization of one’s well-being. Self-care shouldn’t be seen as a selfish act: Instead, it’s a necessity!
Look to engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation. For example, practicing yoga can relieve pelvic pain, while activities like meditating and reading can reduce stress and improve emotional health.
Even something as simple as enjoying a warm bath can alleviate discomfort caused by fibroids, so set aside some time each day and give yourself some much-needed ‘me’ time.
Tip #2 – Nutrition and Nourishment
Maintaining a healthy diet is crucial to successfully living with fibroids. A Mediterranean diet, for example, one rich in vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains, and lean proteins can help to combat fibroid inflammation.
In addition, there is some suggestion that antioxidants called flavanols may help to reduce the size and number of fibroids. Beverages like green tea are a good source of EGCG (an extensively characterized flavonoid) which has been proven to shrink fibroids.
So consider adding whole grains, lean proteins and foods rich in antioxidants to your diet but more importantly, stay hydrated and limit caffeine and alcohol where possible. These are known to exacerbate uterine fibroid symptoms.
As a top tip - Try swapping out one cup of coffee per day with green tea. It’s good for managing fibroids and your body will thank you for it.
Tip #3 – Staying Active
Another key factor when living with fibroids is to remain active. Regular physical exercise offers many benefits, including improved circulation and stress reduction.
Look to engage in exercise that suits your comfort level. This may include, partaking in a brisk daily walk, going for a swim or practicing gentle yoga.
Physical activity can also help to maintain a healthy body weight which is important when managing fibroid symptoms. Studies suggest that increased visceral fat increases the risk of uterine fibroids. So, as well as being good for your mental well-being, regular activity is also good for managing fibroids.
Tip #4 – Communication
Even though uterine fibroids are incredibly common in fertile women, living with fibroids can sometimes feel isolating. Friends or family members might not fully understand your condition and as a result, may have no idea what you’re going through daily.
Regular complaints of “not feeling great” can result in unhelpful comments and can affect your social circle. So the key to stopping this from happening is communication.
Share your journey with family and friends and don’t forget to communicate openly and regularly with your health provider. Remember to talk about any changes in symptoms or concerns you have about the condition because they should be able to tailor a treatment plan that fits in with your lifestyle and needs.
Tip #5 – Embracing Positivity
Having the right mindset is a real and tangible force that should not be underestimated. Remaining positive about your situation can make a significant difference when living with fibroids. So, look to surround yourself with uplifting and positive people and cultivate a positive mindset.
Remember, the only time we have full control is in the ‘here and now’. So, focus on doing what you can right now to remove yourself from the challenges of life with fibroids. This could be something as simple as reducing stress by sitting in a quiet space, engaging in pastimes or hobbies that make you happy, or calling an uplifting friend for that long overdue chat.
Whatever you decide to do, positive thought processes allow you to overcome the daily struggles associated with fibroids and instead focus the mind on things that truly matter.
Tip #6 – Love and intimacy
While experts aren’t sure of the exact cause of fibroids they do know that there is a connection between fibroids and higher hormone levels, particularly estrogen. Moreover, women who have higher levels of estrogen typically experience a decreased libido.
As a top tip - If fibroids are affecting intimacy, it pays to have an open and honest conversation with your partner. Together you can explore other ways to maintain a fulfilling and loving relationship. Remember, intimacy, extends beyond any physical aspect and an emotional connection is equally as essential.
Living With Fibroids – The Bottom Line
Fibroids can and will present challenges but the problem doesn’t need to hold you back from living a fulfilling and healthy life. By utilizing these six points, it’s possible to navigate this journey with the strength and resilience needed to live well and love life.
If you are suffering from uterine fibroids and feel you need to take medical action, we can help.
Here at the Midwest Institute for Non-Surgical Therapy (MINT), our experienced team led by Dr. Akinwande use a procedure known as Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE).
This minimally invasive, outpatient procedure, blocks off the blood supply to the fibroid causing it to shrink and die.
If you’re seeking a safe and effective non-surgical alternative to traditional removal surgery, call to schedule a free consultation.
With various locations across the Midwest to choose from, we offer a convenient solution to what’s otherwise a common and potentially problematic issue.
Get in touch at a location near you today!
Photo attribution: image by Freepik
