My Journey Through Uterine Fibroids and Iron Deficiency
My Journey Through Uterine Fibroids and Iron Deficiency: Finding the Right Path for My Health
Navigating perimenopause and managing women’s health issues like uterine fibroids and Iron Deficiency can be extremely daunting, especially when it feels like you're on your own. I’ve faced several personal health challenges that I hope sharing might help someone else experiencing similar struggles.
The Start of My Health Journey
At 43, I went to my primary care physician for an annual physical. I reported heavier periods, new migraines and feeling very fatigued—something felt off, and I didn't feel like myself.
Despite my concerns, my doctor dismissed the possibility of perimenopause, insisting I was too young.
Now, I know that's false.
Hormonal changes can start as early as 35, and perimenopause is based on symptoms and age, not a blood test.
(Want the list of symptoms? Grab my free guide.)
I was referred to a gynecologist, who diagnosed me with three large uterine fibroids and iron deficiency and anemia. My ferritin level was 3!
That’s what was causing these symptoms!!
The solutions offered to me were either a hysterectomy or birth control pills, neither of which felt right for me at the time. No shade to anyone who chooses either of these options, I know many have found relief from them. I had a bad reaction to birth control pills in my 20’s and a hysterectomy felt like an extreme solution to this really healthy midlife lady.
Seeking Alternative Solutions
Determined to find a less invasive solution, I did what every wellness loving person would do- I started scrolling instagram for solutions. (Not recommended for medical guidance!)
I found an online “hormone coach who specialized in heavy and painful periods”. This sounded like a solution! I embarked on a six-month intensive regime of nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle changes aimed at supporting my hormonal health. She also sold me a DUTCH hormone test, that I now know is not evidence based or recommended by NAMS. I do not recommend it.
I also have deep compassion for that version of me who was desperately searching for a solution and was caught between dismissal and extreme solutions of a traditional medical system and the hocus pocus, non evidence based solutions of the ‘hormone coach”.
Unfortunately, despite my hard work, I was still bleeding to death every month; I felt like I was drowning! And my iron deficiency was getting worse by the day.
Choosing Uterine Fibroid Embolization
After six months of struggling and trying the reduce the size and symptoms of my fibroids through hormone balancing habits, I made the choice to undergo a Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) — a non-invasive procedure that required a two to three week recovery and was a better solution for me than a hysterectomy.
A few months after my UFE, I received an iron infusion to boost my iron levels from a ferritin of 3 to 108. This was a game changer in my health!
Interestingly, neither my primary care physician, gynecologist, nor pelvic pain doctor recommended an iron infusion.
It was through my research and advocacy that I found an amazing community of people with iron deficiency, and it was my persistence that led my gynecologist to refer me to a hematologist. The hematologist confirmed that based on my blood work, I must have felt like hell for the last eight months and promptly scheduled me for an iron infusion.
Reflecting on the Journey
Today a few years after the UFE and iron infusion, I'm happy to share that I feel great and like myself again.
My period flow has been reduced by 80-90%.
Before the UFE, I couldn’t leave the house for 2-3 days a month, was bleeding through ultra tampons and overnight pads every 45-90 minutes, and was waking up multiple times a night to change them.
Now, I use regular and super tampons for 4+ hours, and I haven’t needed Advil or spent a day in bed because of my period for the last few years.
Empowering Women to Advocate for Their Health
This journey has fueled my passion for helping women feel empowered in their relationship with their hormones, food, and body.
Too many women are brushed off, dismissed, and ignored by traditional medical doctors who lack the training, tools or time to educate on supporting the body through hormonal transitions.
And too many ‘wellness advocates’ are taking advantage of women in perimenopause who just feel off by selling them expensive at-home hormone tests and loads of supplements.
If you can relate to my story in any way, know that you don’t have to suffer.
Please educate and advocate for yourself.
Connect with Me for Personalized Help
If you're struggling with uterine fibroids, heavy and painful periods, or perimenopause symptoms, I’m here to help.
Everybody is different and you are empowered to make the right choice for YOU.
Book a free consult call with me, and let's work together to find the right solutions for your health.
You can also stay connected through my FREE Perimenopause Guide which includes a list of perimenopause symptoms and a list of hormone supporting habits.