Uterine fibroids, or myomas, are fairly common among women of child-bearing age. While fibroids are sometimes referred to as tumors, most uterine fibroids never develop into cancer and aren't thought to increase your risk of cancer. Some clinicians believe that phytoestrogens may help shrink the size of uterine fibroids and balance estrogen levels. Always consult your doctor before using a dietary supplement.
About Phytoestrogens
Phytoestrogens are plant compounds that balance estrogen and other hormones by binding to estrogen receptors. They are found in foods such as whole grains, soybeans, tofu, sesame seeds, flax, apples and pomegranates. Herbs like dong quai, blue cohosh, licorice root and wild yam are also sources of phytoestrogens, according to naturopathic doctor Linda Page in her book, "Renewing Female Balance: PMS, Breast & Uterine Fibroids, Ovarian Cysts, Endometriosis & More." Phytoestrogens are also available as a dietary supplement in tablet and powder form. Some clinicians believe phytoestrogens may help uterine fibroids. Physician educator and as a media commentator Dr. Donnica Moore states that phytoestrogens are not thought to produce any effects on the uterus or on uterine fibroids.
Uterine Fibroid Facts
Uterine fibroids affect approximately three out of four women, according to the Mayo Clinic. However, you may not even be aware that you have fibroids because they often cause no troublesome symptoms. Sometimes, fibroids can cause excessive menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, backache, leg pain, constipation, a need to urinate frequently or, in rare cases, severe pain. Severe pain occurs when the fibroid is deprived of its blood supply. Typically, fibroids don't require treatment, but in cases of troublesome side effects, doctors may prescribe certain medications to treat your symptoms or shrink the fibroid. While clinicians such as Page and naturopathic doctor Tori Hudson believe that phytoestrogens may have a beneficial effect on fibroids, there's not much clinical evidence to support this claim.
Clinical Evidence
In an article published in the winter 2004 issue of the "Journal of Chiropractic Medicine," chiropractor Nicholas LeRoy suggests that phytoestrogens and a specific type of phytochemical application known as a vaginal depletion pack may have a beneficial impact on uterine fibroids. A vaginal depletion pack is a combination of specific nutrients and herbs on a tampon that is inserted into the cervix. A study published in the October 2000 supplement of "Environmental Health Perspectives," a journal of peer-reviewed environmental health research published by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, states that phytoestrogens, such as those found in soy products and certain herbs, are believed to have a protective effect against certain hormone-related cancers and may also help alleviate discomfort during menstruation. However, there is no additional evidence to suggest any benefits of phytoestrogens for uterine fibroids.
Considerations
While phytoestrogens may have some benefit to women with uterine fibroids, there's not enough clinical evidence to support their effects. If you suspect that you have uterine fibroids, do not attempt to self-treat your condition. Consult your doctor for a proper diagnosis and to discuss treatment options.
References
- "Renewing Female Balance: PMS, Breast & Uterine Fibroids, Ovarian Cysts, Endometriosis & More"; Linda Page, N.D.; 1997
- DrDonnica.com: The Treatment of Fibroids
- Mayo Clinic: Uterine Fibroids -- Definition
- "Journal of Chiropractic Medicine"; Uterine Fibroids: An Integrative Approach; Nicholas LeRoy, D.C.; Winter 2004
- "Environmental Health Perspectives"; Influence of Exogenous Estrogen Receptor Ligands on Uterine Leiomyoma: Evidence from an in Vitro/in Vivo Animal Model for Uterine Fibroids; D. Hunter, et al.; October 2000
- "Women's Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine"; Tori Hudson, N.D.; 1999
