Told you have fibroids? Here are two tests to have done!
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Uterine fibroids are a very common concern for women, up to 50% of women have fibroids! For some people fibroids can cause major concerns in terms of heavy menstrual bleeding, mass related symptoms (pressure, feeling of prolapse, or other symptoms caused by the physical presence of the fibroids), and/or fertility challenges. Other women have no symptoms and they’re found incidentally on an ultrasound.
In many situations the treatment plan is to watch and wait while monitoring growth.
Whether the treatment plan is watch and wait, or the fibroid requires surgical or hormonal intervention - there are a couple of tests and treatments that can be helpful!
1.Vitamin d
Research has shown that low vitamin D levels increase the risk of developing fibroids. Furthermore, studies looking at treating vitamin D deficiency in patients with fibroids have shown stabilization of fibroid growth, reduction in fibroid size, decreased recurrence of fibroids, and increased number of ‘lost’ fibroids (reduced number of fibroids from one appointment to the next). This is a very easy and effective treatment strategy! Vitamin D testing IS recommended in current Canadian gynecology guidelines.
2. Iron
Iron deficiency is a common complication of fibroids as fibroids often lead to heavy or abnormal bleeding and can cause many symptoms. In someone with low iron, the bleeding caused by fibroids can impact their subjective experiences with bleeding. Additionally, treating iron deficiency before any surgical interventions is beneficial, as patients who are iron replete tend to fare better and recover more quickly from procedures such as myomectomy or uterine artery embolization.
These are both very simple things to test and treat and are often missed! Whether the fibroids are simple or more complex, these are worth advocating for!
Disclaimer:
This content is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, naturopathic doctor, or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or health concern. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read here.
Hi, I’m Dr. Janine, ND
I’m a Naturopathic Doctor currently practicing in Guelph, Ontario, Canada.
I truly believe that our enjoyment of life is closely tied to how we feel physically. When we’re healthy, we can take on anything. But when we feel off, even the simplest tasks become overwhelming. I’ve been through hormonal shifts, sleepless nights as a parent, and the stress of balancing everything. But I also know that with the right strategy, we can go from surviving to thriving—and create a healthy, thriving family in the process.
I look forward to meeting you soon.
- Dr. Janine, ND
Follow me on social media, @dr.janine.nd