A hysterectomy is a commonly considered surgery that is often pursued in the event of uterine fibroids. Though the procedure may improve quality of life in many cases, it may not be for everyone due to the potential side effects. Luckily, there are many alternative uterine fibroid removal treatments that you can pursue. These alternatives are low-risk and present an opportunity for an overall increase in health (all of these solutions are positive lifestyle choices). Here are four alternatives to surgery that you can start looking into today.
Careful Diet Choices
Diet plays an important role in health generally, but there are specific ways you can tailor your food to fight fibroids. In particular, fiber-rich food choices may help to balance hormones. Consider trying brown rice, lentils, beans, whole-grain pasta, or quinoa. Additionally, fruits and vegetables are an excellent complement to a diet designed to minimize fibroids. You will also want to avoid foods that contain an excess of carbohydrates and added sugar — like sodas and baked goods. Avoiding processed foods will be key in maintaining the right nutrition.
Make Time For Regular Exercise
Exercising regularly is an excellent way to regulate the body and promote good health — it works by reducing the amount of hormones in the body (estrogen and progesterone, in particular) that are responsible for triggering fibroids. In turn, this habit may make for one of the best fibroids treatment options. Cardio in particular, such as running or biking, may be particularly effective against fibroids.
Try Supplements
Supplements work by creating a better balance of hormones in the body. Accordingly, many vitamins may act as a uterine fibroid treatment. Consider trying vitamins B1, B6, D, or E (vitamin D has been shown to be particularly effective). Alternatively, you can try magnesium or omega-3 fatty acids (such as that from fish oil). Remember to talk with your doctor before starting any treatment plan.
Uterine Fibroid Embolization
Uterine Fibroid Embolization is a minimally invasive procedure that works as an alternative to a hysterectomy. The prospects are very good: the procedure has been known to tout a success rate of 85% and does not require surgery. It involves cutting off the blood supply to fibroids and causing them to shrink. The recovery time is short and is typically performed on an outpatient basis.
The best fibroid treatment options are the ones that will keep you in good health now and in the future. For many, that means pursuing a tailored diet and supplement plan and adopting a healthy lifestyle including lots of exercise. For others, it may involve a procedure or surgery of some kind. Schedule an appointment with us to continue the discussion.