Women's Health - Uterine Fibroids Flashcards
Q: What are uterine fibroids?
A: Benign tumours that originate from the myometrium and connective tissue, affecting approximately 30% of women globally, most commonly between ages 35–49.
Q: What are the common signs and symptoms of uterine fibroids?
A:
50–80% are asymptomatic.
Heavy/prolonged menstrual bleeds.
Pelvic discomfort or pain.
Abdominal bloating.
Depending on location: Frequent urination and constipation.
Q: What are some complications associated with uterine fibroids?
A: Iron deficiency anaemia, infertility, miscarriage, pre-term labour, obstructed labour, foetal anomalies, and postpartum haemorrhage.
Q: How is oestrogen involved in uterine fibroid development?
A:
Uterine fibroids are oestrogen-dependent.
Oestrogen receptors are over-expressed in fibroid tissue.
Oestradiol increases progesterone receptor availability, completing fibroid development.
Excess aromatisation, IGF, and cytokines (e.g., TNF, IL-8) can promote growth.
Q: What genetic factors are linked to uterine fibroids?
A: Polymorphisms such as CYP1A1 and MED12.
Q: How does lifestyle contribute to the risk of fibroids?
A:
Low fibre intake, low physical activity.
High consumption of saturated fats, refined carbs, caffeine, and alcohol.
Q: What other factors increase the risk of fibroids?
A:
Hypertension, poor oestrogen metabolism, EDCs, OCP use, chronic stress, vitamin D deficiency, and exposure to heavy metals (cadmium and lead).
Q: What are the three main focuses of the natural approach to managing uterine fibroids?
A:
Support oestrogen balance and detoxification.
Regulate excessive bleeding.
Reduce inflammation.
Q: What dietary and lifestyle measures support oestrogen balance in fibroids?
A:
Follow the CNM Naturopathic Diet.
Avoid xenoestrogens, caffeine, and alcohol.
Address stress (reduce cortisol).
Increase fibre-rich wholefoods and phytoestrogen foods (e.g., flaxseed, chickpeas, sage, red clover).
Q: What supplements and herbs support oestrogen detoxification in fibroids?
A:
Cruciferous vegetables (I3C), B-complex, magnesium, NAC.
Choleretics/cholagogues like globe artichoke and turmeric.
Green tea extract (epicatechins inhibit fibroid growth).
Vitex Agnus castus (prolactin inhibitor).
Q: What nutritional measures can help manage heavy bleeding in fibroids?
A:
Check iron/ferritin levels and focus on iron-rich foods like spirulina, apricots, and nettle leaf tea.
Use vitamin C to enhance absorption.
Q: Which astringent herbs are effective for controlling blood flow?
A: Yarrow, cranesbill, and shepherd’s purse.
Q: How can diet help reduce inflammation in uterine fibroids?
Eliminate sources of arachidonic acid and other pro-inflammatory foods (e.g., refined sugars).
Introduce anti-inflammatory foods: Omega-3 (EPA), curcumin, ginger, green leafy vegetables, and vitamin D.
Q: What are some non-dietary anti-inflammatory approaches to fibroids?
A:
Proteolytic enzymes (e.g., bromelain, serrapeptase).
Castor oil packs.
Regular exercise to address inflammation and aromatisation.
Q: What additional therapies may help manage uterine fibroids?
A: Herbal medicine, acupuncture, and homeopathy.
