Fibroids occur in about 20 to 30 per cent of women over thirtyfive years old. These noncancerous growths, the development of muscle cells that provide a layer of force in the wall of the uterus can be microscopic or as large as a grapefruit. They are usually harmless, but can affect fertility. A doctor can diagnose fibroids during a pelvic exam or ultrasound. Additional tests to eliminate other conditions can take place, including a biopsy, hysteroscopy (with a fiber optic tube to view the uterus) or a Pap smear. The symptoms of fibroids may include pain and tenderness in the pelvic area, heavy bleeding or prolonged bleeding between periods, back or leg pain, frequent urination, pain during intercourse, or recurrent urinary tract infections. Although the cause of fibroids is unknown, they appear to be linked to estrogen levels, as they tend to grow during pregnancy and decrease after menopause (except when taking hormone estrogen). A lowfat vegetarian diet is a potent estrogen reducer. Animal fatout taking productsand all of their diet in favor of highfiber grains, vegetables, fruits and vegetables dramatically suppress the hormone surges that are at the root of many reproductive difficulties. If infertility is a problem for you, by all means see your doctor. There are causes of infertility that have nothing to do with diet, and treatments that require constant medical monitoring. br br
