Uterine Fibroids

Understanding Uterine Fibroids

Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths of muscle and connective tissue that develop in the uterus. They are the most common type of benign tumor in women of reproductive age. Uterine fibroids can vary in size, ranging from small, undetectable growths to large masses that can distort the shape and size of the uterus. The main types of uterine fibroids include:

  • These are the most common type and develop within the muscular wall of the uterus (myometrium). They can cause the uterus to enlarge and can lead to symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and pressure.

  • These fibroids grow into the inner cavity of the uterus (endometrium). They can cause heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding, as well as fertility problems and recurrent miscarriages.

  • These fibroids develop on the outer wall of the uterus, protruding outward and may press on surrounding organs. They typically don't affect the uterine cavity and may cause symptoms such as pelvic pain, pressure, and frequent urination.

  • These fibroids are attached to the uterus by a stalk or peduncle. They can be submucosal or subserosal in nature. Depending on their location, they may cause symptoms similar to the respective types mentioned above.

Causes & Symptoms

The exact cause of uterine fibroids is not known, but hormonal factors, particularly estrogen and progesterone, are believed to play a role in their development. Risk factors for developing fibroids include being of reproductive age, early onset of puberty, high blood pressure, regular consumption of food additives, vitamin D deficiency, having a family history of fibroids, genetics, and obesity.

Many women with uterine fibroids may not experience any symptoms, and the condition is often discovered incidentally during a routine pelvic examination or imaging test. However, when symptoms do occur, they can include:

  • Heavy or prolonged menstrual periods

  • Pelvic pain or pressure

  • Frequent urination

  • Difficulty emptying the bladder

  • Constipation

  • Backache or leg pain

  • Enlarged abdomen or uterus

  • Pain during sexual intercourse

Treating Uterine Fibroids

The treatment of uterine fibroids depends on various factors, such as the severity of symptoms, the size and location of the fibroids, and the woman's desire for future fertility. Treatment options include medication to relieve symptoms, hormonal therapies to shrink the fibroids, minimally invasive procedures to remove or destroy the fibroids, and surgical interventions such as myomectomy (removal of fibroids) or hysterectomy (removal of the uterus).

It's important to note that a woman can have multiple types of fibroids simultaneously. The size, number, and location of fibroids can vary from person to person, which can influence the symptoms experienced and the treatment options available.

Alternative therapies like acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine are often overlooked because they are either poorly understood by the medical community or not even known as an option. While Traditional Chinese Medicine cannot treat large fibroids, it is very successful in the resolution of small fibroids and the management of symptoms caused by larger fibroids.

How can acupuncture treat Uterine Fibroids?

Pain relief:

Acupuncture can help relieve pain associated with fibroids by stimulating the release of endorphins, which are natural painkillers produced by the body. It also helps relax the muscles in the pelvic area, reducing discomfort.

Hormonal regulation:

Hormonal imbalances, particularly estrogen dominance, are believed to contribute to the development and growth of fibroids. Acupuncture helps rebalance hormonal levels by influencing the hypothalamus-pituitary-ovarian axis, which controls the menstrual cycle and hormone production.

Blood flow improvement:

Acupuncture improves blood circulation in the pelvic area. By increasing blood flow, it may help reduce inflammation and promote the removal of toxins, potentially aiding in the regression of fibroids.

Stress reduction:

Chronic stress is known to affect hormone levels and contribute to various health issues. Acupuncture has been shown to have a calming effect on the nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing stress. By alleviating stress, it may indirectly support the overall well-being of individuals with fibroids.

More high-quality research is needed to fully understand the effectiveness and mechanisms of acupuncture in treating uterine fibroids, however, here are a few relevant studies:

  • A randomized controlled trial published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine in 2010 investigated the effects of acupuncture on symptoms related to uterine fibroids. The study found that acupuncture significantly reduced pelvic pain, improved quality of life, and decreased the size of fibroids compared to a control group.

  • A study published in Obstetrics & Gynecology in 2011 examined the use of acupuncture in women with heavy menstrual bleeding, a common symptom of uterine fibroids. The results showed that acupuncture significantly reduced menstrual blood loss and improved quality of life compared to a placebo group.

  • A systematic review published in the journal Gynecological Endocrinology in 2015 analyzed several studies on acupuncture for uterine fibroids and related symptoms. The review concluded that, while the evidence was promising, the overall quality of the studies was limited, and more well-designed research was needed to draw definitive conclusions.

ways Chinese herbal medicine may be employed to treat uterine fibroids:

Chinese herbal medicine is an integral part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), which has been practiced for centuries. In TCM, the approach to treating uterine fibroids involves considering the individual's overall health, identifying patterns of imbalance, and using a combination of herbs to restore balance and promote healing. The specific herbs and formulas used may vary depending on the TCM practitioner and the individual's unique condition, but here are some ways Chinese herbal medicine may be employed to treat uterine fibroids:

Hormonal regulation:

Chinese herbal medicine aims to regulate hormonal imbalances, particularly estrogen dominance, which is believed to contribute to the growth of fibroids. Certain herbs, such as Bai Shao (white peony root) and Chai Hu (bupleurum root), are commonly used to help balance hormone levels and promote hormonal regulation.

Blood stasis resolution:

TCM theory suggests that uterine fibroids are often associated with blood stasis, which refers to the stagnation or poor circulation of blood in the body. Herbal formulas containing herbs like Dan Shen (salvia) and Yan Hu Suo (corydalis yanhusuo) are used to promote blood flow and break up blood stasis, potentially aiding in the reduction of fibroids.

Qi (energy) and Blood tonification:

Chinese herbal medicine aims to strengthen the body's overall energy and nourish the blood. Herbs like Dang Gui (angelica sinensis) and Huang Qi (astragalus) are commonly used to tonify Qi and blood, supporting the body's natural healing processes.

Symptom management:

Chinese herbal formulas may also address specific symptoms associated with uterine fibroids, such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and bloating. For instance, herbs like Yi Mu Cao (leonurus heterophyllus) and Pu Huang (pollen typhae) may be included in formulas to help reduce bleeding and alleviate pain.

Here are some helpful Resources:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6940192/

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0378874119316162