Gallery: 5 Natural Treatments For Fibroids

As defined by Web MD, uterine fibroids are, "benign tumors, especially of the uterine wall, that consist of fibrous and muscular tissue." They are very common as up to 80% of all women will develop at least one fibroid tumor before the onset of menopause. 

Specific causes are unknown, however Black women are more likely to develop them at an earlier age and in higher numbers than Whites. Women who have a family history of fibroids, who started menstruating before age 10, who have never given birth, and who have high blood pressure are all at greater risk.

Symptoms of fibroids range from mild to severe and vary from one woman to the next. Common complaints include heavy periods, cramping, painful sex, and a frequent urge to urinate. Depending on the severity, fibroids may be treated with hormone therapy like birth control and procedures like embolization. A hysterectomy is usually considered as a last resort. 

If all of these sound a bit artificial or invasive, you may prefer a natural approach. After all, the human body is designed to heal itself under the right conditions. Here are 5 natural ways to treat the symptoms of fibroids and maybe do away with them once and for all! (Be sure to consult your physician before starting any treatment plan.)