How Exercise Can Help Manage Uterine Fibroids

The Tie Between Uterine Fibroids and Exercise

Though exercise is not a cure for fibroids, it can help manage certain factors contributing to their growth and symptom severity.

Physical activity supports hormonal balance, particularly in regulating estrogen levels, which can influence fibroid causes.

Regular exercise also helps maintain a healthy weight, reduces inflammation, and boosts circulation, which may ease symptoms associated with fibroids.

Benefits of Exercising With Uterine Fibroids

For women managing fibroids, regular exercise offers a range of benefits that can significantly improve comfort and quality of life:

• Provides significant symptom relief
• Improves overall well-being
• Enhances cardiovascular health
• Increases flexibility and muscle strength
• Reduces pressure from fibroids on surrounding organs
• Alleviates discomfort and supports pelvic health
• Reduces stress, which can help stabilize hormonal fluctuations

The Best Exercises to Reduce Uterine Fibroid Symptoms

Certain types of exercise are beneficial for managing fibroid symptoms. Each workout type offers distinct benefits, from promoting flexibility to enhancing core strength.

Cardiovascular and Aerobic Exercises

Cardiovascular activities like walking, jogging, cycling, and swimming are excellent for those with fibroids. These low-impact aerobic exercises support heart health, reduce body fat, and encourage hormonal balance. To experience these benefits, aim for 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise weekly.

• Walking and light jogging: Walking and light jogging are gentle on the joints, improve circulation, and reduce stress, making them ideal for daily routines.
• Swimming: Swimming provides a full-body workout without placing pressure on the pelvic area, making it a beneficial option for managing fibroid discomfort.

Strength Training

Strength training benefits include building muscle, improving bone density, and providing core stability. For those with fibroids, focusing on bodyweight exercises or resistance training can effectively build strength without excessive strain on the abdomen.

• Bodyweight exercises like squats, lunges, and modified push-ups engage multiple muscle groups and are easy to adapt at any fitness level.
• Resistance bands allow for a controlled range of motion and help build strength, especially core stability, without putting unnecessary strain on the pelvis.

Flexibility and Stretching

Flexibility exercises are excellent for reducing muscle tension and addressing lower back pain and pelvic pressure, often associated with fibroids. Incorporating yoga or Pilates into your routine promotes flexibility, eases tension, and improves core strength.

• Yoga: Gentle yoga poses, like child’s pose and cat-cow, stretch the pelvic region, improve circulation, and relieve tension.
• Pilates: Focused on core and pelvic floor stability, Pilates offers low-impact exercises that support the abdomen and can help alleviate discomfort.

Exercising After Fibroid Surgery

For those who have undergone fibroid surgery, a gradual return to exercise is important to support healing and avoid straining the body. Post-surgery activities should focus on gentle movements that promote circulation without disrupting recovery.

How Long After Fibroid Surgery Can I Exercise?

The timeline for resuming exercise after fibroid surgery depends on the type of procedure and individual recovery progress. Generally, light activities can begin within a few weeks, but it’s essential to consult your doctor for a personalized plan. They can guide you on when it’s safe to increase intensity and which exercises to avoid until fully healed.

Safe Exercises Post-Fibroid Surgery

Once you have medical clearance, you can start with low-impact activities that help rebuild strength and flexibility while supporting healing.

• Light walking: Walking is a gentle, low-impact way to promote circulation and ease into regular activity.
• Gentle stretching: Targeted stretches, especially for the lower back and pelvic area, can relieve post-surgical tension and improve flexibility.
• Pelvic floor exercises: Light pelvic floor strengthening exercises can restore core stability and aid recovery.

When to Consult a Doctor About Exercising With Fibroids

If you experience any unusual symptoms, such as sharp pain, excessive bleeding, or severe discomfort during or after exercise, it’s essential to consult your healthcare provider. They can help assess your condition and advise on safe routine modifications.

Consulting with a fibroid specialist at Dallas Fibroid Center ensures a tailored approach to managing your symptoms and achieving your health goals.

Eliminate Fibroid Pain With Our Expert Team in Dallas

Exercise can be a valuable tool for managing fibroid symptoms, but some women may require medical intervention to address fibroids effectively.

At Dallas Fibroid Center, we specialize in minimally invasive treatments, including Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE), which reduces fibroid size by cutting off blood supply to the growth. Our team develops customized care plans, combining lifestyle guidance and advanced treatment options to help you manage fibroids with comfort and confidence.

Schedule a consultation with our experienced team today for more information on managing fibroids through exercise or exploring treatment options.