Fibroids

Question

For the last few months, my periods have been really heavy, and I didn’t think much of it at first. But then the pain got worse, and I started feeling bloated all the time, like my lower stomach is swollen. I also noticed that I have to pee more often than usual, even when I haven’t had much water. My friend suggested I get checked for fibroids, so I went for an ultrasound, and it turns out I have multiple fibroids. The doctor said they’re not too big right now, but they could grow, and that’s making me really nervous.

I don’t want to go for surgery or any harsh treatments if I can avoid it. I read that Ayurveda has natural ways to shrink fibroids, but I don’t know where to start. Are there specific herbs or home remedies that help in reducing fibroids? Also, can diet make a difference? I eat a lot of spicy food and dairy – could that be making my fibroids worse?

Another thing I’ve noticed is that my energy levels are super low, and I feel drained even after a full night’s sleep. Is that related to fibroids? And what about stress? I’ve been more stressed than usual lately, and I wonder if that’s affecting my hormones and making the fibroids grow.

I really want to try an Ayurvedic approach before considering any other treatments. Are there specific lifestyle changes or detox methods that can help with fibroids? I also heard that pitta or kapha imbalance can cause fibroids – is that true? How can I balance my doshas naturally? Any advice on where to start would really help.

Dr. Ayush Varma · Answer

I'm glad you reached out about your situation. Your symptoms, including heavy periods, bloating, increased urination, and low energy, suggest a potential imbalance related to kapha dosha, which can lead to the formation of fibroids. Ayurveda views fibroids as a manifestation of accumulated toxins (ama) and imbalances in reproductive health. To manage your condition naturally and holistically, you can incorporate specific dietary, herbal, and lifestyle changes.

For diet, consider reducing spicy foods, dairy, and processed sugars, which can aggravate pitta and kapha doshas. Focus on a diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Especially beneficial are bitter greens like dandelion and fenugreek, which help detoxify the liver and support hormonal balance. Also include anti-inflammatory foods like turmeric, ginger, and garlic.

In terms of herbs, you might consider incorporating ashwagandha to help with stress and fatigue, and shatavari, which supports women's reproductive health. Look for triphala, a detoxifying herbal blend, to help eliminate toxins and improve digestion. You can take it daily, preferably in the evening with warm water.

Incorporating lifestyle changes is crucial. Practice daily yoga, particularly poses that enhance circulation in the pelvic area, such as gentle twists and hip openers. Mindfulness techniques like meditation can help manage stress, which is vital as stress can contribute to hormonal imbalance and exacerbate fibroids. It may be beneficial to establish a regular sleep routine and aim for at least seven to eight hours of sleep each night.

For detox methods, a gentle cleanse can help. Consider a simple mono-diet of kitchari (a blend of rice and lentils) for a few days to help reset your digestive system and reduce excess kapha.

Start slowly and listen to your body as you integrate these changes. Balancing your doshas naturally often involves a comprehensive approach over time, so keep track of your symptoms and progress. If you notice significant changes or improvement, it might encourage you to continue exploring Ayurveda as a primary method of support. Always consult with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner for personalized guidance as you proceed.

Fibroids - #18718

Doctors’ responses

If you need a detailed answer, ask the Ayurvedic doctor your question

About our doctors

Related questions