Natural Approaches for Submucosal Fibroids

Uterine fibroids, also known as myomas, leiomyomas, or uterine fibroids, are benign tumors located in the uterus and affect approximately 25% of women. This condition occurs more frequently with advancing age and affects twice as many black women as white women.

This hormone-dependent and recurrent condition, still unrecognized by many women, can cause intense pelvic pain and affect quality of life, sexuality, and the ability to conceive. The exact causes of this gynecological condition are still poorly understood, although it seems likely that a hormonal imbalance is often the cause of the development of uterine fibroids. They vary in shape and size, with some even reaching the size of a melon.

Contact us via WhatsApp for more information.

What are the types of fibroids?

There are three types of fibroids:

Subserosal fibroids develop outside the uterus, to which they are attached by a pedicle (a collection of blood and lymphatic vessels and nerves).

Intramural or interstitial fibroids form within the thickness of the uterine muscle (the myometrium). This is the most common type of fibroid.

What are the symptoms of fibroids?

The symptoms of fibroids vary depending on their location and size, but often include pelvic discomfort, heavy and prolonged menstruation, or abdominal distension.

Fibroids can also press on other organs, causing frequent urination,hemorrhoids, or pain during sexual intercourse. When the fibroid is located in the uterine cavity, it can also cause infertility.

On average, two and a half years can pass between the onset of the first symptoms and medical diagnosis, hence the importance of information to prevent worsening of symptoms and ensure prompt treatment.

Submucous fibroids develop in the uterine cavity. Rarer, this form of fibroid can cause heavy bleeding, fertility problems, and complications during pregnancy.

What risks do fibroids pose to fertility and pregnancy?

Fibroid management, whether during diagnosis or treatment, focuses primarily on fertility issues. Indeed, it is often during consultations for infertility issues that women learn of the existence of fibroids, which could hinder the implantation of the fertilized egg in the uterus. The presence of fibroids can also complicate pregnancy and pose a risk during childbirth. Indeed, pregnant women with fibroids are at increased risk of miscarriage or premature delivery.

The desire—or not—for a future pregnancy plays a crucial role in the selection of therapeutic treatment for the patient. Indeed, this decision can have an impact on the course of a pregnancy and delivery. Therefore, if a myomectomy is considered for patients who wish to preserve their ability to conceive, it would be wise to wait until the uterus has healed (which generally takes between 6 and 12 months) following the procedure before considering pregnancy. Depending on the size and location of the scar, a cesarean section may be recommended for delivery.

Submucous fibroids are a type of uterine fibroid that develops in the uterine cavity, just beneath the endometrium. Diagnosis is based on a combination of clinical signs and additional tests. Click here to join and get more information

Clinical (suggestive signs)

Metrorrhagia (heavy, prolonged, irregular bleeding)

Menorrhagia (very heavy periods)

Secondary anemia due to blood loss

Pelvic pain or cramps Infertility or repeated miscarriages

Diagnostic Tests Pelvic Ultrasound (especially transvaginal)

First-line examination

Shows a rounded, well-circumscribed intrauterine mass pushing back into the endometrial cavity.

Hysterosonography (ultrasound with saline injection)

Provides better visualization of the uterine cavity and confirms the submucosal nature.

Diagnostic Hysteroscopy Provides direct visualization of the uterine cavity.

Considered the gold standard: it allows both diagnosis and sometimes treatment (fibroid resection).

Pelvic MRI Performed in certain cases (before surgery, infertility assessment, or if other tests are inconclusive).

Specifies the exact location, number, and size of fibroids.

Preventing Submucous

Fibroids Preventing uterine fibroids (including submucous fibroids) is not always possible, as the exact cause is multifactorial (hormonal, genetic, environmental). However, certain protective factors and preventive measures can reduce the risk or limit progression:

Lifestyle and Diet Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity increases circulating estrogen, which promotes fibroids.

Balanced diet: favor fruits, vegetables, legumes, and fiber, and limit red meat, processed foods, and excess saturated fats.

Regular consumption of vitamin D (rich foods or moderate sun exposure): a deficiency is associated with a higher risk of fibroids.

Limit excessive alcohol and caffeine, which can influence hormonal metabolism

Healthy Lifestyle

Regular physical activity: reduces inflammation, improves hormonal balance, and helps control weight.

Stress reduction: Chronic stress can disrupt hormonal balance (cortisol, estrogen).

Hormonal and gynecological factors

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: These protect against the development of fibroids.

Hormonal contraceptives: Certain pills can help regulate cycles and reduce symptoms, but they do not always prevent the development of fibroids.

Regular monitoring: An annual gynecological visit, with an ultrasound if necessary, can detect fibroids early and prevent complications

Medical Approaches

These primarily aim to control symptoms (bleeding, pain, anemia) and reduce the size or remove the fibroid.

Progestins: regulate cycles and reduce bleeding.

GnRH analogs (e.g., leuprorelin, goserelin): induce temporary artificial menopause → reduce fibroid volume, used in preparation for surgery.

Selective progesterone receptor modulators (e.g., ulipristal acetate, depending on availability and local recommendations).

Hormonal intrauterine device (levonorgestrel IUD): reduces heavy periods.

Anemia treatment: iron, vitamins, transfusion if necessary.

Surgical Treatments

Operative hysteroscopy: Standard treatment for submucosal fibroids → direct endoscopic resection.

Myomectomy: Removal of the fibroid while preserving the uterus (if multiple or large fibroids).

Hysterectomy: Removal of the uterus, as a last resort, especially if fibroids recur and there is no desire for pregnancy.

Minimally invasive methods (subject to availability)

Uterine artery embolization: Reduction of blood flow to the fibroid, causing it to shrink.

Focused ultrasound (HIFU): Targeted destruction of the fibroid using ultrasound.

Possible natural (complementary) approaches

Plants rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatories (turmeric, green tea, red berries): can limit associated inflammation.

Some studies suggest a protective role for omega-3 fatty acids (oily fish, flaxseeds, walnuts).