Bleeding between menstrual periods? Ayurveda physician Dr Chethana shares herbs and therapies for uterine fibroids

Effective Ayurvedic herbs and therapies for managing uterine fibroids and alleviating symptoms like heavy bleeding and pelvic pain.

Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in the muscular wall of the uterus. They are made up of smooth muscle cells and fibrous connective tissue. They are also known as leiomyomas, myomas, or fibromyomas. Although fibroids are very common, nearly 75% of women do not experience any symptoms, and the condition is often discovered during a routine pelvic examination or ultrasound.

What are the first signs of fibroids?

When symptoms do occur, they can vary in severity. They may include heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding, bleeding between periods, painful menstruation, pelvic pain or pressure, pain during sexual intercourse, and difficulty conceiving. “Fibroids are most commonly diagnosed in women during their reproductive years, with their occurrence increasing with age. The prevalence is estimated to range from 5% to 20%, depending on factors such as age, ethnicity, and diagnostic methods” Ayurveda Physician Dr Chethana G. Happiest Ayurveda tells Health Shots.

Common symptoms of uterine fibroids

Many women with uterine fibroids do not notice any symptoms, especially when the fibroids are small. However, larger or multiple fibroids can interfere with daily life and affect overall well-being.

Common symptoms may include:

1. Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
2. Bleeding between menstrual periods
3. Pelvic pain, pressure, or a feeling of heaviness
4. Pain during sexual intercourse
5. Abdominal bloating or a noticeable increase in abdominal size
6. Frequent urination or difficulty emptying the bladder
7. Lower back pain or pain that radiates to the legs
8. Constipation or other digestive discomfort
9. Fertility concerns, including difficulty conceiving or recurrent miscarriages

The type and severity of symptoms vary from person to person and often depend on the size, number, and location of the fibroids.

Ayurvedic medicines for fibroids

Ayurvedic medicine uses time-tested herbs that have traditionally been valued for supporting women's reproductive health. These herbs are selected according to an individual's body constitution and health condition. They are usually prescribed as powders, decoctions, tablets, or herbal formulations by a qualified Ayurvedic physician.

Some commonly used herbs include:

1. Ashoka: Traditionally used to support healthy menstrual cycles and maintain uterine health.
2. Lodhra: Known for promoting hormonal balance and supporting the normal function of reproductive tissues.
3. Shatavari: A well-known rejuvenating herb that nourishes the female reproductive system and supports hormonal well-being.
4. Kumari: Traditionally used to support digestion, gentle detoxification, and overall body balance.

Ayurvedic therapies

1. Detoxification (Panchakarma Therapy): Along with oral medicines, Ayurveda may recommend Panchakarma therapies to help cleanse the body and restore dosha balance. Panchakarma is a personalised detoxification programme that aims to remove accumulated toxins (Ama), improve circulation, strengthen digestion, and support the body's natural healing process.
2. Virechana (Therapeutic Purgation): A cleansing therapy that helps eliminate excess Pitta and toxins, supporting healthy inflammatory responses and menstrual balance.
3. Basti (Medicated Enema): Considered one of the most effective treatments for balancing Vata, particularly Apana Vata, which plays an important role in reproductive and pelvic health.
4. Uttara Basti: A specialised Ayurvedic procedure performed under the supervision of an experienced Ayurvedic physician to support uterine and reproductive health in carefully selected patients.