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Endometrial Fibroids Prevention

Endometrial fibroids are non-cancerous tumors that develop in women during their childbearing years. Fibroids, composed of muscle cells and tissues, develop in and around the uterine wall. African Americans and overweight women are primarily susceptible to endometrial fibroids. Common symptoms include painful bleeding and heavy bleeding during and between periods; lower abdominal fullness; frequent urination; painful intercourse; lower back pain; constipation; and such reproductive problems as infertility, miscarriages and preterm labor. By staying fit and watching what they eat, women can reduce their chances of developing fibroids.

  1. Maintain Healthy Weight

    • Overweight women tend to have higher estrogen levels, which appear to coincide with fibroids, according to the Women's Health website. In addition to watching calories, women should exercise regularly: 30 to 60 minutes, five times a week. Strength training reduces body fat, which increasing muscle. Obese and or sedentary women should start out with light exercises, such as walking, extremely low-impact aerobics and stationary or recumbent bikes. If you can afford the fee, hire a professional trainer to tailor your workout.

    Change Diet

    • A diet heavy in red meat and ham appears to coincide with the incidence of fibroids, according to the National Uterine Fibroids Foundation. Recommended foods include green vegetables, fruit and fish. Women's Health cites an Italian study that found that women who ate more fruits and vegetables developed fewer fibroids than those who consumed more meat. As constipation is associated with endometrial fibroids, eat whole grains, bran and other fiber-rich foods--and drink plenty of water--to promote waste elimination. These diet changes should also help with weight loss.

    Take Birth Control Pills

    • The National Uterine Fibroid Foundation says that the primary symptom of fibroids is excessive bleeding. With every menstrual cycle, endometrial fibroids place pressure on the uterine lining and increase instances of irregular bleeding. To prevent endometrial fibroid and irregular bleeding, doctors may prescribe birth control pills to help women regulate their hormone levels and menstrual cycles. Consult with your doctor about potential side effects of the pill.

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