Uterine fibroids are a common occurrence in women of child-bearing age. Also called myomas, fibroids are benign growths that appear inside the uterus. Many women have these non-cancerous tumors and are unaware of their condition because the fibroids are small and pose no problems. Larger fibroids can cause heavy bleeding and pain when they put pressure on other neighboring organs. Natural progesterone can be used to shrink large fibroids if a woman chooses not to undergo a myomectomy (surgical removal of the growths) or a hysterectomy.
Instructions
1. Have an ultrasound so that you and your doctor can see the size and placement of your fibroids. In some severe cases, the growths could become as large as a grapefruit and need to be removed. Natural progesterone may not be the ideal treatment for large fibroids that are threatening the function of your vital organs.
2. Undergo a series of simple blood tests to measure your hormone levels if you are pre-menopausal. This will help determine if you are in a period of estrogen dominance, or peri-menopause. High levels of estrogen in your body encourage the growth of fibroids and may require that you take a larger dose of natural progesterone. Menopausal women often find that uterine fibroids shrink on their own as their levels of estrogen decrease naturally.
3. Choose, with your doctor's advice, the form of natural progesterone you want to use to shrink your fibroids. The hormone is available in a cream form or as an oral medication. Many women find the cream to be easier to use and more effective in shrinking their fibroids. Both forms of natural progesterone require a prescription from your doctor.
4. Rub the natural progesterone cream into your skin as directed by your doctor--usually once or twice daily. There are many areas of your body that absorb the hormone well, including your stomach, chest, inner arms and inner thighs. If you are taking a natural progesterone pill, take it with a full 8 oz. glass of water.
5. Be aware of the side effects you may experience when you use natural progesterone. Common side effects include breast tenderness, headaches, irritability, and minor gastrointestinal complaints. Serious, but more rare side effects that require a call to your doctor include chest pain, blurred vision, swelling in your legs, seizures, and vaginal bleeding.
Tags: natural progesterone, your doctor, side effects, large fibroids, levels estrogen