Fibroid

[purplemachine]

I have a 12cm fibroid. It isn't really causing any issues apart from very heavy periods, although this is quite a big issue as they are making me anaemic and housebound for 2 days a month. Just wondered if anyone has found their fibroid(s) shrunk on their own without intervention or through natural means such as diet, vitamins etc. Thanks

I am 38 with 3 children.

Housebound and anaemic sounds like a pretty big issue to me!! Have you tried any medication? I take tranexamic acid for heavy bleeding which is also caused by fibroids and it just about makes it manageable so I can leave the house but can still get through super plus tampax in 1-2 hours. The mirena didn't work for me and the pill gave me a migraine so had to come off it so I'm waiting to have them treated surgically (probably uterine artery embolisation). I tried to research diet etc but to be honest I'm sick of it ruling my life and just want them dealt with! The main risk factors seem to be being overweight, african-carribbean heritage, and a diet high in red meat and I don't tick any of those boxes!

Hi, yes it is quite a big issue! I take tranexamic acid and it does help slightly. I'm the same - none of the risk factors apply to me!

Hi OP - I had been wondering the same thing. I have three fibroids (much smaller than yours). My main issue is heavy bleeding that can go on an on - in December my period lasted for 12 days. Also lots of pain before and during. The result is very low ferritin and hair loss - I'm 44.

I can't take anything hormonal because of family medical history and no anti-inflammatories (possible issue with my kidneys) either.

I have an appointment to see a gynaecologist next week. Have you seen one yet? I'm not massively keen on anything that is too invasive or drastic - but I really don't want to lose any more hair!

I don’t think generally they shrink without intervention until you get to menopause but could be wrong.
Housebound ant anemia is absolutely a big deal.

Mine wasn’t as big as that, 9cm. Had embolisation which shrunk it by half but my uterus didn’t shrink back and was stuck to my abdomen with adhesions and cut my bladder capacity by 50% so had a hysterectomy which has been a big relief.

BadMoon, I have had issues with hair loss too but that seems to have settled. I've not seen a gynaecologist yet, my GP is referring me so I'll see what they say but I'm not keen on anything hormonal or surgery. Although I don't know if I can wait for the menopause for it to shrink!

Me too, PostNotInHaste!

Are you taking iron supplements? I have been for 6 weeks and I am just beginning to feel an improvement in my energy levels - it's amazing to not feel like a zombie anymore!

Oops, sorry - last comment was meant for OP!

Yes, I'm taking iron supplements and do feel much better than a couple of months ago

Yes, I'm taking iron supplements and do feel much better than a couple of months ago!