Are you familiar with the experience I'm about to share? Or perhaps you know someone who has faced similar challenges?
Unveiling My Fibroid Story:
2012 was the year I found out I had fibroids. My previous exams showed that I had fibrocystic breast and cystic ovaries. However, I was assured by the physicians over my care that this was normal, and it is nothing to worry about, as if it was harmoniously sung by a choir. Looking back with specialist eyes, what they were really saying was, we often see this in our exam rooms and is very common with patients, so due to the number of women experiencing this, don’t worry, its not cancerous. Although fibroids aren’t cancerous, nothing about this condition and its symptoms, while commonly experienced, is normal!
A Closer Look at My Journey:
Fast forward to 2020. I had been dealing with excessive bleeding, irregular cycles, and a visibly distended abdomen due to the fibroids enlarged sizes. Yes, I had multiple. Which led me to a gynecologist who specialized in surgically removing fibroids. At this point I was experiencing low iron levels because of the dangerous amount of blood loss I experienced every cycle (going through a pack of pads, 28-42 ct.). I consistently messed up clothes and linens, experienced discomfort while laying down, had a pressure in my lower abdomen and on my bladder and, to top it off, I found out I also had endometriosis. The endometriosis had become so aggressive that it had completely bonded one of my fallopian tubes and ovaries together beyond saving and began to migrate to my diaphragm. I had loss noticeable weight and I had concluded that the only option was surgical removal. From initial diagnoses, my care consisted of birth control and pep talks around their ability to alleviate my symptoms and soothe my angst. Not once did I have a conversation educating me on the nature of fibroids and identifying contributing lifestyle practices.
The Turning Point: Embracing a Holistic Approach:
Today, I live with ‘a geriatric’ stage reproductive system, one fallopian tube and ovary, a slim chance of having children, and a mission to help others not have to share my experience.
This is a narrative I am determined to change for others.
Empowering Holistic Well-being: Tips for Hormonal Balance:
Fibroids are an estrogen dominant condition. Estrogen dominance arises from either insufficient progesterone production or excessive estrogen often triggered by dietary choices and poor gut health. Therefore, when treating estrogen dominance we must treat the gut (specifically the liver, the bile it produces, and intestinal health).
Below are my four essential steps for nurturing a healthy gut and promoting balanced hormone levels:
Prioritize pre- and probiotics to cultivate a diverse microbiome and suppress disease-causing bacteria.
Integrate fiber into your diet to nourish beneficial bacteria and support regular bowel movements.
Reduce sugar and processed food consumption, as they can fuel harmful bacteria and disrupt hormonal harmony.
Embrace phytoestrogens found in plant-based foods, which counteract strong estrogens, contributing to hormonal equilibrium throughout different reproductive stages.
My journey with fibroids and endometriosis opened my eyes to the intricacies of hormonal balance and the potential of holistic approaches. By sharing my story and the lessons I've learned, I aim to empower others to take charge of their health, make informed decisions, and rewrite their health narratives. Let's embark on a path of transformation and well-being together. Because at the end of it all, the irreversible choice was not surgery. Instead, it was not taking action to change the trajectory of my condition.
To hear more of my personal story and the reason behind my holistic approach follow me on Instagram: @b.theholisticskinspecialist
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Author: Bynisha Myers LE, CHN
Disclaimer:
This information is generalized and intended for educational purposes only. Due to potential individual contraindications, please see your primary care provider before implementing any strategies in these posts.