14 ii Fibroids Miracle™ A Unique Step By Step Holistic System Guaranteed To Eliminate & Prevent Uterine fibroids Naturally Giving You Lasting Fibroids Freedom By Amanda Leto Page ii iii Disclaimer While all attempts have been made to verify information provided in this publication, neither the Author nor the Publisher assumes any responsibility for errors, omissions or contrary interpretations of the subject matter herein. Any perceived slights of specific persons, peoples or organizations are unintentional. The Author neither makes nor attempts to make any diagnosis or cure or prevent any disease. This publication is an informational product based on my own experience and research, has not been evaluated by either the FDA or the medical profession and is not aimed to replace any advice you may receive from your medical practitioner. The Author and Publisher assume no responsibility or liability whatsoever on the behalf of any purchaser or reader of these materials. The author is not a doctor, nor does she claim to be. Please consult your primary care physician before beginning any program of nutrition, exercise, or remedy. By consulting your primary care physician, you will have a better opportunity to understand and address your particular symptoms and situation in the most effective ways possible. As always, before applying any treatment or attempting anything mentioned in this book, or if you are in doubt, you should consult your physician and use your best judgment. If you fail to do so, you are acting at your own risk. You, the buyer or reader of this book, alone assume all risk for anything you may learn from this book. FibroidsMiracle.com, Higher Ways Publishing INC, the publisher and Amanda Leto are not liable or responsible for any increase in severity of your uterine fibroids or for any health problem you may encounter should you give up medical treatment. By choosing to use the information made available on the Fibroids Miracle website and in this book, you agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Higher Ways Publishing Inc. and FibroidsMiracle.com from all claims (whether valid or invalid), suits, judgment, proceedings, losses, damages, costs and expenses, of any nature whatsoever (including reasonable attorney's fees) for which Higher Ways Publishing Inc. and FibroidsMiracle.com may become liable resulting from the use or misuse of any products sold through the FibroidsMiracle.com website. Page iii iv Table of Contents Chapter 1 – Introduction.................................................................... 8 Welcome ..................................................................................... 8 Ten Facts about the Fibroids Miracle™ System ........................... 11 How to Get the Most from the Book............................................ 15 Get Rid Of Uterine fibroids Holistically ...................................... 19 Chapter 2 – All About Uterine fibroids ............................................ 21 Section One – The Truth About Uterine fibroids ............................ 21 What Are Uterine fibroids ? ....................................................... 21 What Role Does the Uterus Play in Fibroids? .............................. 22 The Real Cause of Uterine fibroids and their related symptoms .. 24 How Do Your Hormones and Menstrual Cycle Affect Fibroid Growth? .................................................................................... 31 Can Your Emotions Affect Fibroid Growth? ................................ 33 What Is the Cancer/Fibroid Connection? .................................... 34 Who’s At Risk for Fibroids? ........................................................ 36 Types of Uterine fibroids ........................................................... 38 Signs And Symptoms ................................................................. 41 Section Two – Holistic Medicine Vs. Conventional Medicine In The Treatment Of Uterine fibroids ....................................................... 46 Natural Medicine vs. Conventional Medicine (The Crucial Differences)............................................................................... 46 Conventional Treatments For Uterine Fibroids .......................... 47 What Drug Treatment Options Are Available for Treating Fibroids? ................................................................................... 48 What Medical Therapies Are Available to Fibroid Sufferers? ....... 51 Page iv v What Surgical Options Are Available for Treating Fibroids? ........ 54 The Holistic Medicine Way......................................................... 59 Chapter 3 – Managing The Symptoms of Uterine fibroids ............. 61 Clear Steps To Manage The Symptoms of Fibroids ...................... 61 Chapter 4 – The Fibroids Miracle™ Quick Results Mini-Program... 70 Introduction to the Fibroids Miracle™ Quick Results Mini- Program .................................................................................... 70 The Fibroids Miracle™ Quick Results Mini-Program ................... 71 Chapter 5 – The Holistic Fibroids Miracle™ System ....................... 72 Introduction To The Holistic Fibroids Miracle™ System .............. 72 Section One – The 3 Step Fibroids Miracle ™ System ...................... 76 Step 1: The Uterine fibroid Control Diet (Six Principles) ............. 76 Basic Elements Of A Healthy Uterine fibroids Diet ...................... 77 Dietary Principle #1 –Uterine fibroid Sinners ............................. 79 Dietary Principle #2 – Uterine fibroids Friendly Foods and Healing Foods............................................................................ 88 Dietary Principle #3 - Alkaline Acid Balance............................... 99 Dietary Principle #4 – Raw Food .............................................. 101 Dietary Principle #5 – Estrogens and Phytoestrogens .............. 105 Dietary Principle #6 – Food Allergens ...................................... 108 Dietary Principle #7 – Optimizing Digestion ............................. 113 Step 2: Enhancing Immunity and Uterine fibroid Supplementation ..................................................................... 117 The Immune System ................................................................ 117 Immune Supporters And Suppressors ...................................... 118 Diet And Immune Function ...................................................... 118 Lifestyle, Mood, Stress And Immune Function .......................... 119 Boosting Thymus Gland Function ............................................ 119 Page v vi Uterine Fibroid And Immune Function Supplementation.......... 121 Step 3: Internal Cleansing And Liver Detoxification .................. 140 Three-Day Juice Cleanse .......................................................... 149 Getting Rid Of Parasites – One-Week Program ......................... 167 Liver Detoxification ................................................................. 168 Getting Rid Of Environmental Toxins ....................................... 170 Eradicating Candida Yeast Infection ......................................... 172 Simple Home Test To Discover the Severity Of Your Candida.... 175 Anti-Candida Supplements ...................................................... 178 Replenishing And Re-Colonizing The Friendly Bacteria ............ 181 Section Two – During The Program – Stress Control, Sleep Optimization And Exercise .......................................................... 185 Stress And Uterine fibroids ...................................................... 185 The Wonders of Meditation And Correct Breathing .................. 189 The Importance Of Laughter .................................................... 197 Exercise And The Uterine fibroid Connection ........................... 199 The Exciting World of Photography ......................................... 216 Stress Control Through Mind Techniques ................................ 217 Sleep Optimization Plan ........................................................... 223 Section Three – How to Prevent Uterine fibroids and Maintain A Fibroids-Free Environment ........................................................ 226 Conclusion ......................................................................................228 Appendix 1 – Complementary Treatments For Uterine fibroids .229 Aromatherapy ......................................................................... 229 Lymph Drainage Massage ........................................................ 230 Digestive Massage ................................................................... 230 Acupuncture............................................................................ 231 Homeopathy............................................................................ 232 Page vi vii Appendix 2 – Uterine fibroids Detoxification Diet .......................234 What Is Detoxing? ................................................................... 234 Symptoms While Detoxing ....................................................... 235 Daily Guidelines During Uterine fibroids Detox ....................... 235 What To Eat During Anti- Uterine fibroids Detox ..................... 236 What to Avoid During Anti- Uterine fibroids Detox .................. 236 Suggested Two-Day Uterine fibroids Detox .............................. 237 Appendix 3 – The Ayurveda Detoxification Program...................240 The Ayurveda Detoxification Diet ............................................ 241 Ayurveda Detoxification Herbs ................................................ 245 The Ayurveda Detoxification Lifestyle And Meditation ............. 246 Appendix 4 – Liver And Gallbladder Flush ...................................247 Introduction ............................................................................ 247 One-Day Liver and Gallbladder Flushing .................................. 253 Conclusion .............................................................................. 254 What to Do After Each Liver Flush ........................................... 255 Page vii 0BChapter 1 – Introduction 8 Chapter 1 – Introduction 0B Welcome 15B Dear Uterine fibroids Sufferer, In the next 12 months, more than one million women in the United States alone will be diagnosed with uterine fibroids. Many of those women will be left with more questions than answers to their condition once this diagnosis is made. That will leave them looking beyond their doctor’s office for answers – and help. If you have picked up this book to find out more about your condition and what you can do about it then, Kudos. It is about time women became more assertive in their health care decisions. Within this book you will learn more about fibroids than you ever thought possible; plus you will be exposed to a variety of treatment methods including dozens of noninvasive treatments that will not only relieve your suffering, but cure your fibroids altogether. But first, it is important to understand what uterine fibroids are and how you got them. Regardless of your age, whether you have severe symptoms and enlarged uterine fibroids or just a mild case, and regardless of how your condition manifests itself, the methods contained within the Fibroids Miracle™ System are the only practical answer. These methods are the only way that you will completely rid yourself of all types of uterine fibroids and in all levels of severity, as many other women have. Like you I suffered from severe fibroids symptoms and was diagnosed with large uterine fibroids , and just like you I tried without success just about all Page 8 0BChapter 1 – Introduction 9 the conventional medicines and over-the-counter products that deal mostly with the symptoms - and often aggravate the root cause. And just like you, something kept me searching, believing that there must be a permanent cure for uterine fibroids, not just temporary relief. It’s imperative that you understand that your uterine fibroids didn’t just happen. There was a cause, and if you follow the right path eliminating the root cause, you can be rid of these conditions forever. In fact, there is a natural, safe, cheap and highly effective path to reverse uterine fibroids and their related symptoms. This book contains that path. The information you will discover in this book is the result of 12 years of searching, trial-and-error and experimentation. It’s the result of trying just about everything, keeping what worked and discarding what didn’t. The “uterine fibroids puzzle” was pieced together from the information I learned from countless naturopaths, authors and healers, and from working with and interviewing many alternative practitioners and nutritionists. I assure you that you made the right decision when you ordered the Fibroids Miracle™ package. Regardless of what Western medicine followers may have told you, uterine fibroids can be cured – naturally and permanently. In this book I’m going to share the Fibroids Miracle™ System, the only system based on 12 years of research that will help you cure your uterine fibroids for good! I’ll explain exactly what uterine fibroids are, the symptoms of uterine fibroids , primary and secondary factors that cause uterine fibroids and the conventional vs. natural holistic approach to curing uterine fibroids . Most importantly, I will go over the exact steps you should take to cure your uterine fibroids permanently, not just alleviate the symptoms, and how to prevent their recurrence. Page 9 0BChapter 1 – Introduction 10 By educating yourself about uterine fibroids, you open the door to a lifetime of improved well being and better health without the pain, annoyance, frustration and costs associated with living with and treating your condition. My only aim in writing this book was to help you reach your goal – to eliminate your uterine fibroids permanently and clear up all your confusion about the steps you are required to take to achieve that goal. If this book helps you succeed in eliminating your uterine fibroids, then this book is a success with or without the accolades. By following the Fibroids Miracle™ System, the vicious and destructive cycle of drugs, creams, over-the-counter products and futile costs is stopped. Now is the time for you to exercise your natural right to open the door to a uterine fibroid-free life. Page 10 0BChapter 1 – Introduction 11 Ten Facts about the Fibroids Miracle™ System 16B Before we get into the heart of the program, let me share with you the ten reasons as to why this system might just be the most powerful uterine fibroids system ever developed. Fibroids Miracle™ provides you with a tested step-by-step plan 15B to success. It’s a fact that no other uterine fibroids system will provide you with the exact steps you need to follow in order to be free from uterine fibroids. Most uterine fibroids programs will merely give you vague guidelines of what needs to be done. With the Fibroids Miracle™ System, you get all the specifics. You are told exactly what to do, exactly how to do it and exactly when to do it and why. Fibroids Miracle™ was written by a genuine uterine fibroids 156B sufferer. This program was not written by some science geek who never had uterine fibroids in her life. Instead, it was written with the blood and sweat of a real person who suffered from this condition for years, and it’s the result of thousands of dollars spent on trial and error and more than 14 years of extensive research. Fibroids Miracle™ is based on real world results. 157B This system is based on real world results, not textbooks or classroom lectures. Thousands of uterine fibroids sufferers, including the author herself, have already cured themselves completely using the same principles contained in this program. Page 11 0BChapter 1 – Introduction 12 Fibroids Miracle™ is truthful and unbiased. 158B I’ve devoted the last 14 years of my life to helping uterine fibroids sufferers win the war against deceptive advertising, false claims and other marketing scams in the Uterine fibroids treatment industry. The Fibroids Miracle™ program is straightforward, providing you with the facts on how to eliminate uterine fibroids with honesty and integrity. I have never been involved with any health or supplement magazine, and I am not affiliated with any of them. Fibroids Miracle™ is not just about alleviating the symptoms; it’s 159B about your health and inner balance. Reversing uterine fibroids and their related symptoms permanently can never be achieved as long as your body is in a state of imbalance. Uterine fibroids are not a problem with your uterus or reproduction system, no matter what your doctor tells you. It’s about taking responsibility for your body and about restoring it to a state of balance where no disease can exist, not only uterine fibroids. Fibroids Miracle™ is not just a special nutrition program. 160B It merges nutrition with a comprehensive cleansing program. It shows you how to rebuild your organs of elimination and supplies dietary, supplementation, mental and lifestyle plans aimed at restoring your body back to balance. In short, it’s the perfect holistic uterine fibroids solution. Fibroids Miracle™ doesn’t confuse alleviating uterine fibroids 16B symptoms with an uterine fibroids cure. Relieving the pain and other symptoms caused by your uterine fibroids and fixing the root cause of your uterine fibroids are completely different things. Yes, treating the symptoms of fibroids is obligatory if you have uterine fibroids Page 12 0BChapter 1 – Introduction 13 simply because it can be a painful and debilitating condition. Fibroids Miracle™ handles all the symptoms of uterine fibroids using a unique relief treatment that works for almost all types of uterine fibroids. However, in order to permanently cure uterine fibroids, you must neutralize the “uterine fibroids environment” (more on that later). The Fibroids Miracle™ System ensures that this uterine fibroids environment ceases to exist in your system. Fibroids Miracle™ is not a temporary quick fix. 162B It offers a permanent solution and one that you can maintain as a lifestyle. The whole concept of curing uterine fibroids by masking the uterine fibroids symptoms is flawed. When you say that you’re going to treat your uterine fibroids , the implication is that it’s temporary and that at some point (when your uterine fibroids symptoms are temporarily gone and you feel some relief) you will continue with your bad nutritional and destructive lifestyle habits. The truth is that the only way you’ll ever get rid of your uterine fibroids permanently is to adopt new habits and keep them. It may feel a bit uncomfortable in the beginning, but it will soon become entrenched into your daily routine and become easy, natural and highly rewarding. Fibroids Miracle™ is simple. 163B With the information overload provided by the Internet, it’s only natural that you’ll feel overwhelmed with conflicting theories and mind-boggling disinformation. My goal in creating this program was to clear up the confusion and make the process as simple as possible. The simpler the strategies are, the easier you will apply them, and the greater your results will be. Fibroids Miracle™ offers 24-hour FREE e-mail counseling. 164B Fibroids Miracle™ is the only uterine fibroids program that comes with this exclusive 24-hour quality counseling by a certified nutritionist. I challenge you to find similar offers on the Net. The Fibroids Miracle™ program is the perfect solution for uterine fibroids , but the real value of the program comes from the Page 13 0BChapter 1 – Introduction 14 personal guidance and support that I offer my customers. I am devoted to your success, and I will do anything within my power and knowledge to help you eliminate your uterine fibroids in the least amount of time, with the least amount of trouble, in a way that is designed to suit your individual needs and personal limitations. Most of my customers who chose to take advantage of this exclusive offer are in constant daily correspondence with me. It takes time and energy to answer all those e-mails on a daily basis. That is why I chose to provide this service only to people who bought the program. If you ordered the Fibroids Miracle™, I urge you to use this service too. I would love to hear from you. Page 14 0BChapter 1 – Introduction 15 How to Get the Most from the Book This book offers a comprehensive natural approach to the treatment of uterine fibroids and their related symptoms. It is aimed at you, my fellow uterine fibroids sufferer. If you are fed up with conventional treatments and their unpleasant side effects and are willing to try a natural, long-term and practical way to get rid of uterine fibroids, you have come to the right place. This book is aimed at women with all types of uterine fibroids with all levels of severity. It is aimed at women who wish to eliminate the cause of Uterine fibroids and their related symptoms rather than deal with the symptoms. It is aimed at women who wish to reclaim control over their inner systems and health and thus dramatically improve their overall health, the appearance of their skin and to look and feel younger and more vibrant. This book will take you on a voyage that leads to uterine fibroids freedom through a holistic approach by treating the body as a whole and having it cleansed and re-balanced from the inside, thus neutralizing the environment that encourages Uterine fibroids and their related symptoms . I truly believe this book will change your life. If you are reading these lines, you are truly blessed beyond belief. By following the Fibroids Miracle™ System to the letter, you will not only eliminate all symptoms related uterine fibroids, but you will also feel younger, healthier and more vibrant. You will be able to overcome many illnesses and dysfunctions you may have had before the treatment such as constipation and obesity. You will achieve all that without the horrible side effects. The Fibroids Miracle™ System eliminates the root factors leading to uterine fibroids , thus achieving real long-term success. As mentioned earlier, treating Uterine fibroids and their related symptoms is not a short process. It requires persistence and patience. Results may only become apparent after 6 or even 8 weeks. Moreover, each woman is unique Page 15 0BChapter 1 – Introduction 16 in the way she adapts and reacts to the treatments. Results may vary among different people with different types and levels of uterine fibroids severity and sensitivity to certain foods. Keep in mind that it takes time for the body to heal itself and some level of maintenance to keep things under control. Persistence and belief are vital if you wish to achieve success in eliminating your Uterine fibroids and their related symptoms . You must understand that following each step alone will only yield short-term results. The combination of all the steps in the Fibroids Miracle™ System is the only key to lasting uterine fibroids freedom. This book is divided into 5 chapters and 4 appendices. 165B Chapter 2 is the general section of the book aimed at building a foundation of knowledge regarding uterine fibroids and the holistic approach. This is where I reveal the true nature of Uterine fibroids and their related symptoms , the true causes of uterine fibroids , types of uterine fibroids , common symptoms, complications of fibroids, the pros and cons of conventional uterine fibroids medications and the crucial differences between conventional and holistic medicine. Chapter 3 discusses the most effective ways to diagnose uterine fibroids and their related symptoms. Chapter 4 introduces The Quick Results Mini-Program. It is designed especially for busy folks that don’t have much time on their hands but wish to see results ASAP, and for people with very mild cases of Uterine fibroids and their related symptoms . It’s not a quick fix approach, but it’s practical and extremely easy to follow. Chapter 5 – The complete step-by-step holistic solution to uterine fibroids – the Fibroids Miracle™ System. This chapter reveals the general blueprint of the program as well as the specifics of each step of the Fibroids Miracle™ System outlined in a chronological manner with all the nitty-gritty details of Page 16 0BChapter 1 – Introduction 17 why, when and how to successfully accomplish each individual step. It also outlines the exact principles you need to follow to prevent the reoccurrence of uterine fibroids and maintain a fibroids-free environment. Appendix 1 outlines several complimentary treatments for Uterine fibroids and their related symptoms . Appendix 2 offers an example of a 2-day detox diet – a short preliminary internal cleansing protocol. Appendix 3 provides vital information on how to conduct a moderate detox program based on the Ayurveda. Appendix 4 shows exactly how to maintain liver function – an important part of the uterine fibroids basic and maintenance plans. The Fibroids Miracle™ System book also contains lots of theoretical as well as practical information as a means to provide the reader with the clearest, sharpest and most coherent picture of the disease and what needs to be done to eliminate its symptoms. By doing so, you’ll become more “fibroids educated,” more motivated and more focused on achieving your goal, which is eliminating the factors leading to uterine fibroids formation and achieving Uterine fibroids and their related symptoms freedom with all its positive implications. Be patient as you read the book for the first time. All the information in early chapters will come together in the end. As you begin reading, you may feel overwhelmed by the amount of information. Don’t be! The chapters were written in that order for a reason. That is why I urge you to read the book in its entirety first before you start implementing the plan. This way you’ll gain a complete picture of things as they slowly fall into place and finally fit together in the end. It will ensure you won’t get too confused (as to why you’re required to do this or that and in a certain order) or miss essential information required to successfully complete the plan and achieve your goals. Page 17 0BChapter 1 – Introduction 18 Much has been done to keep this book as straightforward, simple and direct as possible. Whenever I could, I kept words to a minimum, and I strived to use conversational language and layman’s terms whenever I could to make reading easier, fun and understandable. Also, the book contains many links to other parts inside the book as well as to useful resources, so stay connected to the Internet while reading. It is important that you commit to taking action and set a deadline for your goals if you wish to succeed. Without the will, a deadline and proper motivation and dedication to eliminate your uterine fibroids , you’ll only achieve poor or short-term results. It is advisable to adhere to the Fibroids Miracle™ System as it was especially designed to put your uterine fibroids and their related symptoms condition in the past. Page 18 0BChapter 1 – Introduction 19 Get Rid Of Uterine fibroids Holistically 18B You really can get rid of Uterine fibroids and their related symptoms – naturally and holistically. How? • By learning what a “Uterine fibroids and their related symptoms environment” is • By learning exactly what conditions are needed for an uterine fibroids environment to exist and how to neutralize these conditions so your uterine fibroids will vanish forever • By learning the connection between uterine fibroids and inner imbalance and how to quickly restore the body back to balance • By understanding that uterine fibroids are primarily a Western problem and that there is in fact a tight connection between Western diet, Western lifestyle and uterine fibroids in spite of what modern medicine and the media want you to believe. Research has clearly shown that non-Western societies where people don’t eat Western food also don’t have uterine fibroids . • By learning the evident link between stressful lifestyle, inadequate sleep, lack of physical activity and the aggravation of uterine fibroids . To get rid of uterine fibroids permanently, you should equip yourself with information about toxic elimination, internal cleansing, hormonal balancing, acid-alkaline balance, healthy diet, stress control, the yeast link, antibiotics, probiotics and prebiotics. The Fibroids Miracle™ book will provide you with all of the above invaluable information. This is not just an informational book but rather a complete stepby-step system that will take you from where you are now to where you want to be – to have permanent Uterine fibroids and their related symptoms freedom. Page 19 0BChapter 1 – Introduction 20 Everything you need to succeed is contained in these pages. Apply it! Knowledge applied is extremely powerful, but unused knowledge is worthless. Begin using this information immediately. The sooner you start, the quicker you’ll see results as they apply to your uterine fibroids condition. So start today! Page 20 1BChapter 2 – All About Uterine fibroids 21 Chapter 2 – All About Uterine fibroids 1B Section One – The Truth About Uterine 10B fibroids What Are Uterine fibroids ? 19B Almost every woman has at least one small uterine fibroid in her uterus; yet most never even know they are there. If fibroids are indeed so common, why are they so feared? Mostly because they are misunderstood. First, let’s look at what uterine fibroids are: they are benign tumors (or smooth muscle masses) that grow inside the walls of the uterus. Fibroids are made of the exact same type of muscle tissue that makes up the uterus, except that fibroid muscle is hard, not soft. Keep in mind that while they are located in or on the uterus, fibroids are not actually part of the uterus, but is its own separate grouping of tissue that grows independently of other uterine tissue. The most common type of tumor found in the body, no one knows for sure why fibroids so commonly grow in the uterus. One theory is the fact that the uterus is an organ whose purpose is to grow a fetus, making it the perfect place for any mass of cells to reproduce. Fibroids can be so small they cannot even be felt during an internal exam. Or they can be so large that they seem to make the patient’s belly protrude Page 21 1BChapter 2 – All About Uterine fibroids 22 unnaturally. The largest uterine fibroid ever recorded weighed over 140 pounds. The average is about the size of a golf ball. Now, let’s look at what uterine fibroids are not: they are not cancerous tumors and they cannot turn into cancer, even if they grow very large. Fibroids do not spread. However, many women with fibroid tumors tend to have more than one. What Role Does the Uterus Play in Fibroids? 20B Although fibroids can grow in any of the body’s muscle tissues, they tend to like the uterus the most. Since this pear shaped organ is made in a way that can stretch and grow to accommodate a thriving fetus, it makes a great place for fibroids to grow undetected. Add to that the thick endometrial wall and a good blood supply from a woman’s menses, not to mention the hormone fluctuations that affect this area of the body and you can imagine why fibroids settle here. To better understand fibroids, it is important to fully understand the role of the uterus, both within the woman’s body, and in the formation and growth of these tumors. A small upside-down pear-shaped organ, the uterus is generally fairly small (only about three inches long and weighing less than half a pound), but has the ability to grow during pregnancy. Of course, this environment also allows fibroids to grow quite easily. Page 22 1BChapter 2 – All About Uterine fibroids 23 The endometrial is the inner wall (or lining) of the uterus, and is engulfed by two layers of muscle called the myometrium and the serosa. It is within these layers of uterine lining that fibroids first appear. Fibroids begin with one cell that can quickly multiple, creating hard potato-like mass, which feels very distinctive during an internal exam against the softness of the normal uterine tissue. Page 23 1BChapter 2 – All About Uterine fibroids 24 The Real Cause of Uterine fibroids and their related symptoms 21B The most fundamental truth regarding the vast majority of chronic health conditions, including Uterine fibroids and their related symptoms , is that there is no such thing as a single cause. As with other health conditions, uterine fibroids is a condition that is triggered by several primary and secondary factors and the relationship between them. There are factors and co-factors that contribute to uterine fibroids and to the development of uterine fibroids , and there are causative agents that aggravate an already compromised Your condition. There are also life situations, external factors and mental factors that directly or indirectly form the environment in which the internal balance is disrupted. These then manifest themselves as uterine fibroids and their related symptoms. Because every health problem is multidimensional, the solution must be multidimensional, in order to eradicate the problem from the root. This is one of the reasons why science and conventional medicine fail in treating most western afflictions. Instead of treating the body as a unified whole, they tackle the manifestation of the condition or the infected parts. Some of us are more genetically prone to disease than others, but that is not to say that if we have some tendency to develop a condition or a weakness of some sort, there is nothing we can do. As I will later illustrate, we can partly change our genetic structure and we can also solve other parts of the health condition puzzle. We can make a difference, reverse our diseases and regain our health and energy by making affirmative decisions to change our lifestyles, dietary choices and thoughts that lead to poor health, toxic buildup, and weak immune systems along with several other factors, which promote Page 24 1BChapter 2 – All About Uterine fibroids 25 the majority of all common illnesses. Then we can gain control over our health and inner terrain. The primary factors that lead to Uterine fibroids and their related symptoms are: • Genetic predisposition • Poor dietary choices • Weakened immune system • Accumulation of toxins in the digestive tract (including environmental toxins) • Insulin resistance and obesity These five factors create the prefect internal environment for uterine fibroids , among various other symptoms. Having hormonal imbalance (such as during menstruation), taking antibiotics, prescription medications and steroids, stress and lack of sleep can also contribute to the formation of uterine fibroids . Now, let’s go into more detail about each of the primary and secondary factors that contribute to uterine fibroids. Genetic Predisposition 16B Most research has shown that the genetic pattern of women with uterine fibroids is somewhat different compared to women who don't have uterine fibroids. It seems that the genes of women who have uterine fibroids make them predisposed to abnormal metabolism and the dysfunctions of cell activity. Researchers have found that many fibroid tumors contain alterations in the genes that code for uterine muscle cells, which may make a woman more susceptible to suffering with fibroids. Page 25 1BChapter 2 – All About Uterine fibroids 26 However, the claim that women with uterine fibroids have a genetic tendency that cannot be altered is nothing but a myth. While genes are a set of rules or principles that determine your physical characteristics, along with the tendency to develop or prevent diseases, your genes, similar to a blueprint, can be altered. Genetic research has shown that your genetic characteristics can be modified and influenced by numerous choices and factors. From the moment of birth until you die, your environment, inside and outside your body, can greatly impact your genetic disposition. By choosing to take control over your inner and outer environment (by changing your diet, for example) you can strongly influence your genetic tendencies and therefore help your body overcome disease. Poor Dietary Choices 167B A diet high in refined carbohydrates, processed and toxic foods and low in fresh fruit and vegetables affects biochemical processes within the cells, contributes to hormonal imbalance, worsens digestion and interferes with the natural toxic elimination process. Lack of good nutrition is another factor. Our bodies need to obtain about 40 essential vitamins, minerals and nutrients to enable the cells in our bodies to fully function and remain healthy. These nutrients mostly come from our diet since the body cannot produce them by itself. When we eat more processed foods and fewer foods with high nutritional value, the immune system declines and becomes less effective since nutrition is highly essential for healthy immune functioning. With a weakened defense system, we make it easier for Uterine fibroids and their related symptoms to develop. Over-acidity in the digestive system, usually due to a diet high in acidic foods, is another major factor. A state of over-acidity causes the blood to become Page 26 1BChapter 2 – All About Uterine fibroids 27 sludgy and thick, creating the ideal environment for candida growth (more on the acid-alkaline balance later). The consumption of refined or processed foods spikes your blood sugar to high levels. Insulin levels increase in order to control the sudden increase in blood sugar. Too much insulin eventually makes the cells "insulin resistant.” (more on the insulin- uterine fibroids connection later) A healthy diet that consists of certain micronutrients (biotin, calcium, chromium, magnesium, selenium) can help reduce insulin resistance. The typical western diet is deficient in many of these micronutrients. A family of substances called excitotoxins (MSG being one of them), along with numerous other chemicals added to your food to "improve" the taste, texture or appearance, can hinder and damage cell function and nerve cells. This in turn can hinder your body’s ability to keep your hormones balanced. (Nerve cells in the hypothalamus are also responsible for the stimulation or suppression of hormone secretion). Low doses of MSG injected into mice caused abnormally high levels of LH (luteinizing hormone). Elevated levels of LH is one of the primary reproductive problems that women with fibroids have. Weakened Immune System Or Autoimmune Disorders 168B When the immune system is weakened due to several factors such as nutritional deficiency, high toxic buildup (heavy metals, chemicals, bacteria, viruses, and parasites), stress, lack of sleep or the use of pharmaceutical drugs such as antibiotics and steroids, the body becomes vulnerable to virtually every type of sickness and disease. In this state the body cannot defend itself and cannot control the process of toxic elimination and hormonal balancing as it could if the immune system was at its peak performance. Page 27 1BChapter 2 – All About Uterine fibroids 28 Autoimmune disease is another issue. This is an inflammatory condition where your immune system mistakenly considers organs or cells as "foreign" to your body and attacks them. Hormone disorders and substances and microorganisms in your food and physical environment can all influence your immune system. A recent study in which 108 women with uterine fibroids participated found that 40.7% had immune antibodies for autoimmunity versus only 14.8% for women without any of these conditions. Congested Toxins In The Bowels, Liver, Blood And Lymph And 169B Exposure to Environmental Toxins Our constant exposure to thousands of toxins on a daily basis through the food that we eat, the air that we breathe, the drugs that we take and our poor quality of our water supply all lead to toxic buildup in the blood, lymph, kidneys and colon. This leads to short-term and long-term health conditions. Among them are Uterine fibroids and their related symptoms. You can take thousands of herbs, supplements and over-the-counter preparations to relieve your fibroids symptoms and eliminate uterine fibroids , but without cleansing your internal system and your digestive tract in particular, it will be like painting a rusty car, and you will never get rid of it. The liver in particular is essential to maintaining blood sugar levels, recovering your hormonal balance, improving your fertility and performing other functions such as removing excess insulin from the blood stream. When excess insulin, for example, is not removed, it remains high in the blood and may contribute to insulin resistance. These functions are all responsible for keeping your uterine fibroids symptoms under control and for eradicating and preventing the formation of uterine fibroids . Page 28 1BChapter 2 – All About Uterine fibroids 29 The optimal uterine fibroids diet and the cleaning protocols outlined in this book were designed to ease the fat and toxic load on your liver, to provide nutrients that the liver needs to do its work and to re-build liver and bile function. Once you have cleansed your internal system, your detoxification process and your immune system will have vastly improved, and your liver’s ability to release toxins, balance hormones and remove excess insulin from the blood will be enhanced. You will feel more energetic and healthier, and your body will be able to fight uterine fibroids symptoms and prevent uterine fibroids more effectively. Environmental toxins are other issues of great concern. These can disrupt your hormonal activity by interfering with the production and metabolism of hormones and by mimicking hormones. Environmental toxins can also lower progesterone levels, damage your fertility, the ovulation process and the health of your unborn child. Chronic exposure to xenohormones (petro-chemically derived pesticides, emulsifiers found in soap and cosmetics, plastics, regular meat), and manmade chemicals found in our food and environment, can cause hormone dysfunction, ovary damage (damaged follicles which cause reduced production of progesterone) and infertility problems. Exposure to solvents, the most common type of xenohormones that are found in glue, dry cleaning clothes, nail polish and paint can lead to an array of health problems including: fatigue, anxiety, depression, brain swelling, fetus damage and oxygen deprivation in the brain. While there is no escape from chemical pollution, including xenohormones, the uterine fibroids diet, the solvents exposure guidelines and detoxification protocols outlined in the book will provide you with a diet that is as free as possible from environmental chemicals that will disrupt your hormones and damage your health. They will also remove chemical substances that are already in your body and strengthen your toxin elimination organs. Page 29 1BChapter 2 – All About Uterine fibroids 30 Insulin Resistance 170B Studies show that at least 30% of women with uterine fibroids have insulin resistance, Insulin resistance can manifest as acne, difficulty losing weight, high blood pressure, elevated blood glucose and carbohydrate cravings. When the cells in your body are less responsive to the insulin hormone, you have insulin resistance, which damages the functionality of a myriad of insulindependent processes in your body (such as regulating the liver's production of blood sugar and fat). When you are insulin resistant, your pancreas gland produces extra insulin to counter the impaired related functions which in turn causes "hyperinsulinemia," - an abnormally high level of insulin in the blood. This leads to a vicious cycle where the excess insulin causes the cells to become even more insulin resistant. As your pancreas becomes exhausted from producing large higher amounts of insulin, it starts producing less and less insulin, thus causing blood sugar levels to go out of control. With regard to uterine fibroids and hormonal imbalance, chronically high levels of insulin stimulate androgen production, causing excessive production of testosterone and other male hormones by reducing serum sex-hormone binding globulin (SHBG), that worsen uterine fibroids symptoms. While there is a genetic predisposition to develop insulin resistance, poor nutrition, dietary habits and too much body fat can greatly contribute to insulin resistance and thus worsen uterine fibroids symptoms and hinder the body’s ability to eliminate uterine fibroids . Page 30 1BChapter 2 – All About Uterine fibroids 31 How Do Your Hormones and Menstrual Cycle Affect Fibroid Growth? 2B While most doctors will admit that they do not know exactly what causes fibroids, they do know this: a woman’s hormones can – and do –affect the rate of growth of fibroids and may even be an underlying cause of their formation in the first place. Holistic practitioners often refer to the hormone web when explaining to patients how their hormones may be affecting their fibroids. Unless every aspect a woman’s hormonal system is working at peak capacity, problems (such as fibroid tumors) may occur. Hormones that are blocked from getting to the right cells, will settle somewhere else – maybe even the uterus – and can induce those cells to begin reproducing unnaturally. That, they say, may be one cause of fibroids. Traditional medical practitioners, agree with some aspects of that theory. They do admit that hormones play a part in the formation and growth of fibroids, but blame instead an increase in estrogen and progesterone in the female body. It has been cited by researchers that fibroid tumors grow more quickly when high levels of these two hormones are found in the patient’s body. That may explain why the two most common times to experience fibroid growth is during Page 31 1BChapter 2 – All About Uterine fibroids 32 pregnancy and pre-menopause when estrogen and progesterone levels are at their highest levels during a woman’s lifetime. It also would explain why a woman who has suffered with large painful fibroids for years will suddenly see a decrease in their size after menopause, when hormone levels spiral downward. Considering this link between hormone levels and fibroids, it is no wonder that a woman’s menstrual cycle can affect the growth of these uterine tumors. Many fibroid sufferers experience increased pain and other symptoms at certain times of their menstrual cycles as hormones levels rise and increased blood flow makes its way to the ovaries and uterus, which can help to feed a growing tumor. Although estrogen is often blamed for fibroids, it is important to understand that during a woman’s menstrual cycle there are really three different types of estrogen-like hormones that are released into the woman’s system, which can in turn affect fibroid growth. They include: 1. Estradiol (E2): Reaching peak production during a woman’s reproductive years, estrodial is the most common form of estrogen found in the female body. 2. Estrone: Most abundant during a woman’s menopausal years, estrone is made when testosterone molecules are converted into it through fat cells found throughout the body. Too much estrone in the body ahs been linked to breast cancer and gallbladder disease in older women. Page 32 1BChapter 2 – All About Uterine fibroids 3. Estriol: 33 The weakest of the estrogens, estriol is made in higher quantities during pregnancy and has been linked in some studies to a lowered risk of breast cancer in women who have higher levels of it in their systems as they reach menopause. Can Your Emotions Affect Fibroid Growth? 23B The human mind can have a huge impact on the human body. The fact is that our emotions can help us remain healthy and strong; but they can also set us up for increased health problems – including fibroids. The Limbic Brain System is a complicated system in the body which not only oversees our emotions, but helps to control our hormones. When we are scared or upset, the Limbic system tells other parts of the body, including the pituitary gland, to release different hormones and chemicals to help us stay safe. This affect is often referred to as the Fight or Flight response. While designed to protect us, if we initiate the Fight or Flight Response too often, the hormones that are earmarked for one purpose are redirected to another. This can leave the parts of the body in need of those chemicals at a loss. And this can cause problems. A female reproductive system that is starved from the right amount of certain hormones at the right time may develop menstruation problems, or it could signal uterine muscle cells to begin reproducing which could create a fibroid tumor. Page 33 1BChapter 2 – All About Uterine fibroids 34 What Is the Cancer/Fibroid Connection? 24B Uterine fibroids are not cancerous; cannot become cancerous and do not cause cancer, say most experts. That said, some doctors believe that any type of fast growing abnormal cell growth (which of course is what causes a fibroid to appear in the first place) is a precursor to cancer and may want to take drastic measures to stop further growth, including recommending a hysterectomy for those experiencing large fibroids. Of course cancer can grow anywhere in the body, and it is important to be absolutely certain that what your doctor thinks is a benign fibroid is just that and nothing more serious, women need to be especially careful when making the decision to have their uterus and ovaries removed to prevent a condition that there is no evidence will appear because of fibroid growth. Several in-depth studies in recent years have suggested that less than one percent of all women who underwent a total hysterectomy due to the possibility of cancer due to fibroids actually had cancer of the uterus. These findings suggest that the thousands of hysterectomies being performed for fibroids may be unnecessary; especially since there are other tests such as MRI and biopsies which could tell the doctor whether a mass that appears to be a fibroid is indeed a benign tumor or a cancerous one. In the event a mass is found to be cancerous, it generally falls within one of these four types of female reproductive system cancers: Page 34 1BChapter 2 – All About Uterine fibroids 35 1. Cervical Cancer: Typically a very slow-growing cancer, cervical cancer is most often detected in its pre-cancerous stage called cervical dysplasia during a routine pap smear. Since dysplasia cells can take as long as twenty years to become full-blown cancer, it is generally caught in more than enough time to treat it successfully. 2. Endometrial Carcinoma: The least deadly of the female cancers, endometrial carcinoma accounts for nearly 13 percent of cancers among women. The moist common sign of this type of cancer is midcycle bleeding, especially in women over the age of 35. Those at greatest risk of endometrial cancer include women who are: obese; never had children; experience irregular periods; have higher than normal levels of estrogen in their bodies; early onset of menstruation; high blood pressure and diabetes. 3. Ovarian Cancer: A very deadly cancer, ovarian cancer is most insidious for two reasons: there really is no way to routinely test for it; and since the ovaries are buried deep within the abdominal cavity, changes in them can be hard to detect early. Although there is a blood test that can be performed to help detect changes that could indicate cancer, fibroids can also cause C-125 levels to rise, making it a very unreliable way to test to ovarian cancer. Although hysterectomies are often performed to prevent ovarian cancer in high-risk women (and to help treat it), even that may not be enough since single cancer cells often leach form the ovaries, settling in the pelvis and bone where it can continue to grow at a later date. Page 35 1BChapter 2 – All About Uterine fibroids 36 4. Vaginal Cancer: A very rare cancer among women, those in the highest risk group include women who were exposed to the synthetic estrogen DES. Who’s At Risk for Fibroids? 25B Since the absolute cause of fibroids remains unknown it can be difficult to say which women are at the highest risk for them. Still, statistics show that these risk groups seem to get fibroids at a higher rate than others: • Women in their 50’s. As a matter of fact, 40% of women will get fibroids by their 40th birthday; compared to 70-80% of pre-menopausal women in their 50’s. • Women who started their periods at an earlier age. • African-American Women – they are twice as likely as white women to develop fibroids. • Women who have never been pregnant. Women who have had at least four children are 70-80% less likely to get fibroids. • Women who are overweight. • Women who have at least one female relative with fibroids. • Women with higher than normal levels of estrogen and/or progesterone in their systems (this may include post-menopausal women who take hormone supplements). Page 36 1BChapter 2 – All About Uterine fibroids • 37 Women who eat a lot of red meat. Some studies show that women who eat a lot of red meat and very few vegetables are at a greater risk of developing fibroid tumors in their uterus. Lifestyle Factors That Contribute To Uterine fibroids And 17B Dysfunctional Follicles Stress invoked by either lack of sleep, emotional issues, anxiety or pressure in your daily routine has been scientifically proven to contribute to uterine fibroid formation as stress depresses your immune system, causes anovulatory cycles and elevates blood sugar levels. Taking birth control pills can shut down normal ovary function. A diet full of xenobiotics can hinder metabolism and prescription drugs can also negatively affect the menstrual cycle by impairing the functioning of the hypothalamus. Page 37 1BChapter 2 – All About Uterine fibroids 38 Types of Uterine fibroids 26B There are several different types of fibroids that can grow in a woman’s uterus. Some cause more problems than others, depending on whether they are found on or in the uterus, as well as their overall size. Before you can begin to decide what type of treatment options to discuss with your doctor regarding your fibroids, you must first learn what type you suffer from. Here are the most common fibroid tumors most women have to deal with: The Subserous Fibroid 8B Subserous fibroids are the most common type of fibroid women experience. They typically grow on the outer wall of the uterus and often become bigger (and more painful) just prior to menstrual bleeding as the blood supply top the fibroid increase. Because of the location and size of this type of fibroid, they often make the uterus grow – sometimes as big as a watermelon. This can cause other health issues, which we will discuss in more detail later. The Submusocal Fibroid 89B Found deep within the uterus, this type of fibroid can be very difficult to treat with anything but surgery. They cause severe bleeding (often to the point of hemorrhage), and excruciating pain as the uterus actually tries to expel or “deliver” the fibroid from its cavity. Page 38 1BChapter 2 – All About Uterine fibroids 39 The Intramural Fibroid 90B Growing on the actual uterine wall, this type of fibroid can cause symptoms similar to the other two described, depending on the direction it which it is growing. The Pendunculated Fibroid 91B One of the scariest of all fibroid tumors, the pendunculated fibroid is often confused for an ovarian tumor during an ultrasound, which may cause the patient to undergo unnecessary surgery. Often without symptoms, this type of fibroid is most often felt during an internal exam. In addition to these common uterine fibroids, are these other fibroid tumors that are found within a woman’s reproductive system: The Cervical Fibroid 92B Not very common, cervical fibroids grow on the lower segment or entryway to the uterus known as the cervix. Page 39 1BChapter 2 – All About Uterine fibroids 40 The Broad Ligament Fibroid 93B Much harder to treat, this type of fibroid grows on the ligaments supporting the uterus. The Intracavity Fibroid 94B This type of fibroid most often protrudes into the endometrial cavity which can inhibit pregnancy. Page 40 1BChapter 2 – All About Uterine fibroids 41 Signs And Symptoms 27B While one or two small fibroids will not cause a woman any problems at all, having several of them – or larger ones –can cause a variety of painful symptoms. Among the most common symptoms women with fibroids experience are: Bleeding 95B One of the most common symptoms of fibroids is increased menstrual flow and bleeding between periods. This is caused by several factors: 1. A blockage of normal menstrual flow by the fibroids, causing blood to back up and seem heavier when finally released 2. Uterine congestion which causes a change in blood flow in and out of the uterus 3. An increase in blood vessels which creates a greater amount of blood being transferred through the uterus In the event your menstrual cycle changes and you begin to experience longer periods (longer than 5-7 days) an increase in flow or just seem to be bleeding too much, then be sure to consult your doctor right away to check for fibroids. Page 41 1BChapter 2 – All About Uterine fibroids 42 Pain 96B Pain too is a big problem among fibroid sufferers. At least one in every three women with fibroids reports some amount of pain associated with their condition. Of course how much pain their fibroids cause depends a great deal on where they are located and how large they are, not to mention the woman’s own pain tolerance level. Fibroids found inside the uterus often cause severe cramping as the uterus tries to squeeze out this foreign body. If large enough, fibroids outside of the uterus can actually put pressure on other organs in the body, thus causing pain and discomfort. In the event a fibroid dies because it can not get enough blood, the accompanying chemical reaction within the body to these dead cells can also cause excruciating pain, as well as flulike symptoms which include fever and nausea. Pressure 97B As fibroid tumors grow, so does your uterus. This can cause abdominal pressure that many women describe as being akin to feeling pregnant. Of course the larger the fibroid, the more pressure it will expel on surrounding organs. Page 42 1BChapter 2 – All About Uterine fibroids 43 Bloating/Fullness 98B Bigger fibroid tumors can actually begin to become apparent as your body begins to change to accommodate it. For some women this may result in abdominal bloating like you may have during your menstrual cycle, or it can result in stomach protrusion similar to the early months of pregnancy. This type of bloating can also give you a full feeling in the abdomen as the fibroid takes up more internal room. While these two symptoms are not dangerous, they can be quite uncomfortable. Painful Intercourse 9B Even though fibroids are not found in the vagina, they can put pressure on the vaginal area, as well as the bladder and rectum, which can cause pain before, during and after intercourse. Urinary Problems 10B While not the most physically painful problems associated with uterine fibroids, urinary problems can be the most stressful. The pressure of large fibroids on the bladder almost always causes an increase in urinary urgency, and often results in some form of incontinence, which can be very distressing to most women. However, this is not the worst urinary issues that can arise from fibroids. If a fibroid compresses the ureters (those tiny tubes connecting Page 43 1BChapter 2 – All About Uterine fibroids 44 the bladder and kidneys), against the bones of the pelvis, urine flow can be inhibited which will eventually result in severe kidney damage. Infertility/Pregnancy Problems 10B It isn’t all that easy to get pregnant. As a matter of fact, many experts agree that a healthy woman only has about a 20% chance of conceiving every month in the best of circumstances. Now, throw in a few fibroid tumors which can block a sperm’s way to that all-important egg; block the egg’s passage to the uterus for implantation or cause so much inflammation in the uterus that the fertilized egg is unable to implant safely at all. Now, let’s say that you do manage to get pregnant despite of fibroids. Now you have some new problems. Fibroids can also endanger a pregnancy (or at the very least make it more uncomfortable) by: 1. Growing larger. Due to an increase in estrogen and progesterone during pregnancy, some women experience an increase in fibroid size, which can become very painful and uncomfortable as the pregnancy progresses. 2. Causing Pre-Term Labor. Women with fibroids tend to deliver babies prior to 38 weeks gestation 4-20% more often than women without fibroids. 3. Causing More Birth Defects. Although it is rare, women with fibroids do have a slightly higher risk of delivering a stillborn child or a baby with birth defects than women without these uterine tumors. Page 44 1BChapter 2 – All About Uterine fibroids 45 4. By Requiring C-Section Delivery More Often. Since fibroids can alter a baby’s position for delivery, women with them have a 20-25% higher chance of needing a cesarean section than those without uterine tumors. Depression 102B While physical symptoms of fibroids are usually what sends a woman to her doctor for help, sufferers should not underestimate the emotional toll fibroids (and their symptoms) can have on your emotional well-being. The pain of fibroids can exhaust a woman physically. Add to that the isolation of being unable to work or socialize due to intense pain and bleeding during certain times of the month, plus all of the other physical, mental and emotional stressors associated with fibroids, and depression is a real concern. One of the best ways many sufferers have found to deal with depression and anxiety from fibroid ailments is to find a support group that can help you better understand and cope with your condition. Page 45 1BChapter 2 – All About Uterine fibroids 46 Section Two – Holistic Medicine Vs. 1B Conventional Medicine In The Treatment Of Uterine fibroids Natural Medicine vs. Conventional Medicine (The Crucial Differences) 28B Conventional Medicine 172B While natural medicine perceives the human body as a complete holistic system unified with nature, conventional medicine treats the body as a group of separate physical organs. Conventional medicine has failed to acknowledge the sad truth that man, along with all living creatures, will never be compatible with artificial chemicals, no matter how identical these chemicals may look, feel and smell compared to the natural varieties (e.g., an orange-flavored beverage vs. a freshly squeezed orange). Synthetic chemicals cannot truly or completely be absorbed by the body. Because of their artificial form, synthetic chemicals of any kind are foreign to the body. This is why these chemicals cannot enter your system without creating some level of disruption. While holistic medicine’s objective is mainly to restore the body back into a state of inner balance, to increase optimal genetic function and to help the body cleanse and heal itself, conventional medicine focuses its entire efforts on “making the patient comfortable” and by calming the pain with drugs and ointments, which function as patches to the symptoms of the disease. Page 46 1BChapter 2 – All About Uterine fibroids 47 Conventional Treatments For Uterine Fibroids 29B The most common treatment for uterine fibroids offered by most doctors is the prescription of birth control pills to treat the symptoms that the woman patient complains about. Other physicians, who are more discerning and will correctly diagnose the array of symptoms as “polycystic ovary syndrome”, may include special hormone-regulating drugs and anti-androgen treatments in addition to birth control pills. To treat the insulin resistance factor among PCOS women and women with fibroids, most physicians will also offer an approved anti-diabetic drug called Metformin. Metformin works by reducing the production of glucose by the liver and by increasing the sensitivity of muscle cells to insulin, thus making the insulin activity in the body more effective. This way, less insulin is required to perform the same amount of metabolic work. In short, Metformin helps to lower your insulin levels by assisting your body to transport glucose using less insulin. Metformin may also help lowering cholesterol, and improving energy levels. However, the benefits of Metformin come with a price tag: a myriad of side effects are associated with the intake of this drug. These include but are not limited to: general malaise, fatigue, gastrointestinal disturbances, vomiting and frequent bowel movements, or diarrhea, vitamin B12 malabsorption, pregnancy complications, liver or kidney problems, hair loss and anemia. As you can see the problem with conventional treatment is that the medications used for treating fibroids have undesirable side effects and uncertain long-term health consequences. Page 47 1BChapter 2 – All About Uterine fibroids 48 Watchful Waiting 350B The most common treatment offered for women who are in their childbearing years is to be re-examined in one to three months while waiting and watching to see if the uterine fibroid has changed in size or if some symptoms start to manifest. Note that this treatment will be offered only if you have no symptoms initially. Birth Control Pills 351B Birth control pills will typically be offered to women who frequently develop cysts or if their cysts have failed to dissolve within the three months of watchful waiting. The purpose of the pills is to prevent ovulation. Not only do birth control pills fail to treat the root cause of uterine fibroids but the intake of birth control pills can often worsen your uterine fibroid condition and carries an array of side effects. What Drug Treatment Options Are Available for Treating Fibroids? 30B While some women may shy away from taking ongoing drugs to help control their fibroids; others would rather try medications for treatment than a more invasive option like surgery. Regardless of where you stand on the drug therapy issue, it is important to know what pharmaceutical options are available to help you make the best treatment choices for yourself. The most important thing to remember when considering using drugs to treat your fibroid symptoms is that not every woman responds to medication and some drugs can actually elicit new symptoms. Still, a large number of women Page 48 1BChapter 2 – All About Uterine fibroids 49 find the relief they seek using a variety of pain relievers, hormones and oral contraceptives. Now, let’s take a closer look at each option to see if any may be of help to you: Non Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDS) 352B Some of the best drugs used to relieve both the pain of fibroids and its heavy bleeding are anti-inflammatories that do not contain steroids. Some, like Tylenol, Motrin or Advil, can be purchased over-the-counter and used as needed. Other, stronger medications like Ponstel or Naproxen, may work better, but can only be obtained by a prescription. These anti-inflammatories work by reducing the prostaglandin in the blood which can cause the uterus to contract, thus causing cramps abdominal pain. For best results they should be used throughout the entire menses, even if your pain subsides. Some of the side effects of using both over-the-counter and prescription NSAIDS include gastrointestinal issues, high blood pressure, and kidney issues. Page 49 1BChapter 2 – All About Uterine fibroids 50 Oral Contraceptives 35B Oral contraceptives can be used to reduce bleeding by 30-50% in most women with fibroids. How? They work by introducing more female hormones into the endometrial lining of the uterus which controls a woman’s menstrual flow. Some studies also indicate that the hormones found in oral contraceptives help tor educe the size of fibroids; although there are other studies which refute this claim. Still, many women report good results with this method of treatment. Progestins 354B Using a synthetic form of progesterone such as Provera or Magace seem to help fibroid patients better control excessive bleeding caused by the tumors. Although not labeled specifically for use in treating fibroids, progestins do seem to offer some relief for many patients. Tranaxamic Acid 35B A drug that actually keeps blood clots from dissolving, Tranaxmic Acid has been studied for use in reducing fibroid bleeding and seems to offer some real relief. It is not, however, commonly used among physicians and is still in the research stages as a viable fibroid remedy. Page 50 1BChapter 2 – All About Uterine fibroids 51 Intra-Uterine Devices (IUD) 356B Although progestin releasing IUD’s are used quite successfully to treat fibroids in other parts of the world, doctors in the U.S. hesitate in using this effective treatment due to problems with IUD’s in the past. The good news is that current research shows that 90% of fibroid patients who use a progestin releasing IUD experience a decrease in heavy bleeding, with 68% reporting a decrease in overall symptoms. Right now Merena is the only viable IUD option available in the United States which offers the progestin necessary to work for decreasing fibroid bleeding. What Medical Therapies Are Available to Fibroid Sufferers? 31B In addition to the drug remedies mentioned above to ease fibroid symptoms, there are a few medical therapies that can be used to actually shrink fibroid tumors. They mostly rely on the introduction of hormones into the system in order to battle the fibroids where they start: your cells. Here are a few wellknown as well as experimental therapy options to talk with your doctor about when devising your own treatment plan: Gonadotropins-Releasing Hormones (GnRH) 357B Natural GnRH hormones in the ovaries help to release estrogen and progesterone into the body in order to regulate the menstrual cycle. Artificial Page 51 1BChapter 2 – All About Uterine fibroids 52 GnRH blocks this natural hormone from getting where it is supposed to, so menses stops altogether. The problem with using this type of drug therapy is that while it does wonders to shrink fibroids (as much as 50% in just 3 months), most women report a resurgence of fibroid symptoms within a few months of discontinuing the treatment. Used as a way to stop bleeding while an anemic woman has a chance to rebuild her blood supply and health, GnRH therapy is only a short term solution for most. Mifepristone RU-486 103B Known most commonly as “the abortion pill,” RU-486 is a synthetic steroid hormone that suppresses progesterone and glucocorticoids. Since fibroid tumors depend on progesterone to grow, it makes sense that taking a drug that suppresses progesterone in the body would work to shrink fibroid tissues. Although initial findings look promising with this treatment, it is not regularly given as a fibroid remedy due to many unknown factors associated with it. Raloxifen 358B Used to prevent and treat bone loss in post-menopausal women. This selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERMs), has shown to be a promising new fibroid therapy in many women who use it. IN one study, 83% of the Page 52 1BChapter 2 – All About Uterine fibroids 53 women taking Raloxifen for bone loss also reported a decrease of up to 50% in their fibroids. Unfortunately, the study conducted on post-menopausal women. No one to date has begun studying its affects on fibroid tumors in premenopausal women. Androgen Therapy 359B Danazol is one type of androgen that is used to reduce estrogen levels in the body and stop abnormally heavy bleeding, it is not however effective in shrinking fibroids. Gestrinone, another steroid has been sued successfully in Europe to actually shrink the size of fibroids by about 40% in users. Although quit effective in treating fibroids, Gestrinone does have some masculine side effects including a deeper voice, hair growth, weight gain and fluid retention. That may be one reason why this therapy option is not available in the United States. Interferon 360B Not specifically studied for use as a fibroid reducer, those using Interferon for other purposes have, nonetheless, reported a big decrease in fibroid size Page 53 1BChapter 2 – All About Uterine fibroids 54 while on the drug. Not only expensive, but also harboring some nasty side effects, Interferon will not be readily available as a fibroid remedy until its effects can be studied more closely. What Surgical Options Are Available for Treating Fibroids? 32B Surgery has always been the most popular option among physicians for treating uterine fibroids. Unfortunately, the most common procedure has, until just recently, been a hysterectomy to get rid of fibroids and their painful symptoms. Thankfully, there are a whole host of new surgical options available to today’s fibroid sufferer. Here are a few your doctor may recommend: Myomectomy 361B One of the best surgical options for healing fibroids is the Myomectomy. The reason it is preferred by most women is because it enables the doctor to remove the fibroid without removing the uterus. This is great news for a woman who wants to preserve her reproductive ability, but still get rid of her fibroids once and for all. Done by making a bikini cut in the lower abdomen, the surgeon is able to remove the fibroids from the uterus during this 3-4 hour procedure. Lest you think that it is not a serious procedure, let me stress that any surgery is risky. There can be negative side effects to a Myomectomy including infection and a recurrence in fibroids; although both are relatively Page 54 1BChapter 2 – All About Uterine fibroids 55 slim. A very intricate surgery that requires a large knowledge base, Mymoectomies should only be performed by surgeons who have been specially trained in the procedure. Hysterectomy 362B For some women a hysterectomy is the only option to both relieve their symptoms and save their life. Uncontrolled bleeding caused why growing fibroids can indeed become life threatening if not taken care of and when other medical options fail, the removal of the uterus and fibroids may be the answer. Even the American Academy of Obstetrics and Gynecology admits that hysterectomy is the only sure-fire “cure” for fibroids, freeing the patient of them permanently. Performed through an incision in the abdomen (or even through the vagina), a hysterectomy requires the actual removal of the uterus, and sometimes the ovaries as well. Although removing the ovaries can save you from the possibility of ovarian cancer in the future, it does come with one nasty side effect: instant menopause. Once the ovaries are removed from the body, a woman experienced surgically-induced menopause and all the effects of this syndrome. In most cases, the cervix does not need to be removed in order to treat fibroids. This is important since women who have their cervix removed during Page 55 1BChapter 2 – All About Uterine fibroids 56 a hysterectomy can suffer from sexual dysfunction (including a lack of sensation and orgasm), as well as incontinence following the procedure. FACT: MORE THAN 500,000 HYSTERECTOMIES ARE PERFORMED EVERY YEAR ON WOMEN TO GET RID OF FIBROIDS. NEARLY HALF OF THOSE PROCEDURES ARE PERFORMED ON WOMEN UNDER THE AGE OF 40. A complicated surgery, hysterectomies should not be performed lightly. Death has been reported in one in every 1000 women undergoing the procedure (usually due to a blood clot embolism). Other side effects include infection, sexual dysfunction, ongoing pelvic pain, weight gain, urinary issues and more. Still, the vast majority of women who undergo the procedure to treat fibroids that do not respond to less invasive treatments have been very happy with the results. Embolization 36B One of the most promising techniques being used today to treat (and dare I say cure) fibroids, Uterine Fibroid Embolization is one of the safest of the invasive procedures available to women that works to cut off the blood supply Page 56 1BChapter 2 – All About Uterine fibroids 57 to fibroids, thus shrinking their size. Since it permanently changes the course of the blood to the fibroid, they cannot come back. Here’s how it works: a catheter is inserted into the femoral artery via a small incision. Using contrast dye and a special x-ray machine, the doctor is able to clearly see the blood vessels he is maneuvering through. Next, he guides the catheter tip to the place where the arteries branch off from the uterus. At this point he sues the catheter to inject up to 1,500 milligrams of plastic particles into the patient’s bloodstream. Gelatin-like sponge pellets may also be inserted. This clogs the blood flow into the fibroid, which in essence kills it. The result is shrinkage with an alleviation of symptoms. Some of things that makes this procedure so successful is the fact that fibroids need a constant blood supply to thrive and the uterus has other blood supplies, so if the end artery is blocked it does not affect the uterus. Although it is not as well-known as myomectomy or hysterectomy, the results are clear: embolization works! More than 85% of the women who have undergone the procedure report that their fibroids are gone. Although any surgery comes with risks, Embolization seems to offer less risk than hysterectomy. One studied reported that only 1 in 5,000 women died from the procedure, compared to 1 in 1,000 with hysterectomies. Researchers believe that about 1 in every 10 women experienced either pain Page 57 1BChapter 2 – All About Uterine fibroids 58 or nausea following the Embolization procedure; but these symptoms are transitory and go away in a few days. About five percent of women who undergo the procedure will experience early menopause and/or ovarian failure, which will negatively affect their fertility. Page 58 1BChapter 2 – All About Uterine fibroids 59 The Holistic Medicine Way 3B Natural medicine, or holistic medicine, yields to nature and its everlasting laws. It is not preoccupied with diagnosis or cures simply because of the belief that what causes a disease to exist in the human body is the body itself being out of balance. The laws responsible for illness cannot exist in a healthy and complete body. A good allegory to that perception is that darkness cannot exist in the presence of light. Holistic medicine perceives the body as a unified whole (body, mind and spirit) and not by the sum of its organs. According to holistic medicine, everything you absorb (attitudes, beliefs, chemicals or food) directly affects your system as a whole in a negative or positive way. For that reason, holistic medicine aims to avoid any intrusive approach to healing but rather nourishes the approach of building a strong immune system, increasing the body’s functionality and enhancing spiritual and mental strength and stability. Natural medicine yields to nature and believes in the individual obligation to clear the body of any unnatural residues. A body that is cleansed of any unnatural elements is more harmonized with nature and thus more rejuvenated and vitalized. Unnatural elements can be anything from synthetic unnatural foods, polluted air and water, inadequate exercise, accumulations of toxins in your body and any extreme activity that does not yield to the laws of nature. A disease occurs when the body deteriorates because the body is in an imbalanced state or experiencing disharmony due to excessive toxicity or inadequate nutrition, or deficiency of force, a term referring to a lack of nutritional energy or the ability of the body to handle disease and heal itself using nutritional material. The symptoms of the disease can only mean that Page 59 1BChapter 2 – All About Uterine fibroids 60 something is wrong and that the body is in a state of imbalance and danger. Most illnesses occur when the body’s cleansing organs cannot remove all the excessive amounts of toxins that get into the cell walls, bones, hormone receptors, tissues and even cell surfaces. In most cases, the moment toxins enter your system, the disease begins. When symptoms occur, it is often too late as something has already been damaged. Proponents of natural medicine believe that by allowing the body to conduct its process of removing internal toxins, also known as detoxification, along with restoring it to a state of balance with the right nutrition, more than 90% of illnesses can be healed by the body itself. Studies have clearly shown that calorie-restricted diets tend to normalize hormones, induce ovulation, and enhance fertility while reducing other fibroids related symptoms. Moreover, improvements in diet, exercise and lifestyle, combined with methods to detoxify the body, are essential methods for eliminating and preventing uterine fibroids formation. Page 60 61 Page 61