Fibroids and Lethargy

 Being lethargic... it's not the same as being lazy.  

When a person is "lazy", their mind matches their body, and neither one is motivated.  When someone is lethargic, their body cannot keep up with the energy of their mind - and that's what I've been going through for the last 2+ years...   

What causes it?   Many health issues can cause a person to be lethargic - listless, fatigued, etc. - but this post is specific to fibroids and how they contribute.  It's no secret that fibroids cause significant bleeding, both during and not during a woman's period.  This incredible loss of blood (which occurs long-term), contributes to anemia - low iron.  With little iron and oxygen in the organs and muscles, the woman with fibroids is operating on the "bare minimum" for nutrients and can benefit from:

• Taking iron supplements and eating iron-rich food
• Having bed rest during the first day or two of menstruation when it's heaviest
• Getting blood transfusions during heavy menstruation
• Avoiding the use of heat for pain
• Taking a tranexamic acid such as Cyklokapron to control bleeding
• Getting surgery to either remove the fibroids, or the whole uterus

In addition to feeling very tired from fibroid-bleeding (even with adequate hours of sleep), another incredibly common symptom of the anemia they cause, is being cold all the time. This is because the amount of blood and iron needed for warming all the muscles throughout the body, just isn't enough.  When we have the "bare minimum" of blood in our bodies, it will be focused in the torso, where our major organs need it... meaning our extremities (arms & hands, legs & feet) won't get as much.  Being small-framed makes this even worse, and if you know someone like this, please don't body-shame her 🙁 

On the bright side, often when the fibroids have been removed and the patient recovers, with proper transfusions and taking iron, the body should re-establish a healthy amount of blood and then energy levels should increase! 

Fibroids and the 'Phantom Tampon'

 

Image may be subject to copyright

Some of you ladies know what I'm talking about... you've accidentally left an old tampon in, and you have a heavy, painful feeling in your vagina... it starts toward the cervix and eventually, your vulva feels sore.   What if I told you... you removed your last tampon already?

This is referred to as the Phantom Tampon because it feels like it's there, but when you check by feel and eventually with a pocket mirror, you realize nothing got "left behind"... except for a medical condition, such as vaginal dryness, irritation or polyps in there.  

Fibroids typically don't enter the vaginal cavity, but on occasion, larger (heavy) fibroids can "fall" through the cervix, causing an uncomfortable and painful feeling of fullness in the vagina.  Unfortunately, they are tender and can bleed easily, and ironically, if a woman is unaware (not likely but still) that it's there and rams a tampon against it, that can cause a very heavy bleed which will likely require transfusions... this is why it's so important that we ladies take our uterine health very seriously and see our doctor when something is wrong - that can save our life!

Fibroids and Bowel Movements

 💩

This is a topic not everyone wants to discuss, but when it comes to health, it's often necessary - pooping. 

Well, no matter what title you've assigned to doing it, there is one thing that can really impede the ability to be regular: 

Fibroids!

I used to think it was just me, and assumed I naturally inherited my mother's IBS (irritable bowel syndrome, which I was initially diagnosed with a couple years ago before the fibroids diagnosis).  I am also bad for eating too many sweets/carbs, and not enough veggies... so admittedly some of my constipational issues are just a consequence.... 

However, I've learned from hundreds of other women on facebook support groups that it's common to experience moderate trouble being regular, mainly due to the growth of the fibroids against the bowel.  It can even become very painful if a pedunculated one(s) end up wrapping around some part of the bowel, which could lead to an ER trip and emergency surgery, not to mention extreme pain!  This is part of why it's so important to get your fibroids (or endometriosis, etc.) treated as soon as you can!  

The best treatment of course, is to stay hydrated.  Get your water, your electrolytes... and try to avoid alcohol as a regular beverage.   Of course, the other best treatment is to try to avoid empty carbs and get some more fibre in your diet.  This can be from whole grain bread and pasta, and eating nuts & seeds.  I find one of the best "treats" to keep regular, is dark chocolate almonds, because they give some real ruffage.  It's also a good idea if you can eat it without gagging, to get probiotics from yogurt.  You can also take probiotic supplements if you like. It all helps.

When you really need an emergency 💩 due to pain & bloating, then opt for a fast-acting stool softener. Just be sure to set aside time for privacy in the bathroom ;) 

Anyway girl, make sure to get your uterine health checked out.  You shouldn't suffer in silence when it can be fixed for you.  

Fibroids, Hysterectomy and Intercourse

 This one is for all the husbands and boyfriends out there (I'm directing it specifically at male partners, because I believe female romantic partners will be a lot more understanding due to having the same parts). 

When a woman has had any of the 3 types of hysterectomy - whether it was done vaginally, abdominally, or via laroscope - her interior will need at least 6 weeks to heal, and sometimes up to 8 weeks or more.  In fact, technically, after a hysterectomy, she is not to be having sexual activity at all (even externally) until cleared by a doctor. 

This is because there is a risk of infection, which could turn life threatening and extremely painful for her.  There is also the risk of bleeding, which can become severe and is often caused by popping the "cuff" (the top of the vagina, where the surgical wound is sewn back together).  

Image available at iStockphoto.com 

The doctor needs to examine her surgical wounds and see how they're healing... and in many cases, the go ahead even for clitoral stimulation isn't until about the 6-week point. 

However, many women feel it when they're ready to approach sex again... each one is different and depending on whether her ovaries were removed, will have varying levels of sex hormones. It's really best if you let her initiate the romance with you, and not the other way around.  

*Unfortunately, though this thankfully isn't true of all men, some partners become frustrated and impatient with waiting, which has led to ultimatums - pressuring her into sex before being cleared first, cheating, and the like.  On behalf of women everywhere: Please don't.

Now this is for the ladies (the ones who have had or will have a hysterectomy): 

First of all, listen to your body, and to your doctor. Don't let anyone pressure you, nag you, or threaten you to get sex out of you.  Your body is healing and needs time to repair itself.  If you feel you're at risk of domestic violence, seek out your local hotline or talk to your family doctor about it ASAP!

Chances are, while you still had fibroids or whatever was the reason for your hysterectomy, you were already experiencing pain with intercourse, and possibly even spontaneous bleeding from having sex.  Girl I feel you - for the past couple of years, I've been finding penetration more & more painful, and now it's at the point of spotting right afterward.  Anyway, you will likely find that sex after recovery will be better than it was pre-surgery.  

If full-on penetration (even with a toy) sounds intimidating, that's totally okay.  It's your body and only you really know what you like... so if it's easier, start with external stimulation the first few times, and work your way to other things as time goes by. 

Again, every woman is different and just because your friend who had a hysterectomy says that now her orgasms are through the roof, doesn't mean it's a competition (and, how do you even know she's telling the truth?)  You may find that sex feels a lot better without the impeding fibroids, or maybe it's about the same as it was before... or if you are experiencing sexual difficulties such as lack of arousal/lubrication, painful intercourse, no orgasm or minimal pleasure, or strange discharge, it's wise to talk to your gynecologist to find out what can be done to improve it for you.  After all, you shouldn't have to suffer in silence.

Fibroids and Cramping

 

Image may be subject to copyright

Fibroids are benign tumors which grow in, on and around the uterus (some are pedunculated), and of course they are rarely not symptomatic to some degree.  It's true that some women are lucky enough to not even know they have fibroids, but for most of us, that's not the case.

In addition to the obvious heavy menstrual flow (spotting, prolonged periods, anemia, ER trips, etc.) there is one very distinct symptom of fibroids: PAIN!

The pain is worst during the menstrual period, as normal cramping sort of "massages" the fibroids, which are fairly solid and will push back against surrounding muscles - ouch!  And even worse for us, is that using heat to soothe the cramps, will increase our heavy blood loss, so we often need to find other options for pain relief:

• My first & foremost option is Aleve.  I know it's designed for joint & muscle pain, but the uterus is sort of 'muscular' so it works.  Over the years, I've experimented with various pain relief meds, from NSAIDs, to Ibuprofen... just try them until you find the one that works for you.
• Light exercise - but nothing strenuous!  Staying upright, rather than laying down, can help just by ensuring that the fluid flows out of you naturally, so your uterus and surrounding muscles don't have to "squeeze" so hard to get it out. 
• Staying hydrated, and taking your iron supplements. It's amazing how the "little things" we do for our health, can have such a profound impact when done regularly... when your body is healthy, you'll feel better overall. 
• Use a folded cloth on your lower belly. It gently uses your own body heat, without overheating you and causing heavier bleeding.  One thing I sometimes do, is while wearing leggings, fold a face cloth and shove it against my lower belly and use my leggings to hold it in place. Weird? Oh yes. Helpful? Ooooh yessss......
• Lay off on the caffeine... for awhile.  When your cramps are bad, one thing that can make them worse is caffeine, as it stimulates your central nervous system and increases a lot of your body's mechanisms. Sometimes a nice hot cup of peppermint tea with honey can hit the spot just as well 🍵
• Using cold - yes, contrary to what most women use for cramps, using a cool damp wash cloth, ice pack, frozen peas or something else to "chill" your lower abdomen can be quite calming and soothing.  If you have sensitive skin, use a thin towel (like a kitchen towel) as a barrier to protect you from frost bite - true story. 
• Eating turmeric - this spicy flavor may be an acquired taste, but if you like Indian food (butter chicken? Yes please!) then you can add this anti-inflammatory seasoning to your meals, which can help decrease inflammation in your body and therefore should lessen the cramps a bit.  Cinnamon has a similar benefit and is delicious on desserts, chicken (yes), and in warm beverages like tea. 
• Staying calm... you already know this, but stressing increases heart rate and blood pressure, and therefore your cramps.  Try some adult coloring, listening to binaural beats, baking, smelling essential oils such as lavender, watching funny videos, or anything else that relaxes you.

Remember that the best way to relieve cramping caused by fibroids, is to make an appointment with your gynecologist and discuss options.  You'll also want to get tested to find out if it could be endometriosis (uterine lining on surrounding organs such as bladder, bowels and surrounding tissues), or cancer.  Getting checked is safer than ignoring it.  

Follow Up

 Hi everyone!  

So as you know, yesterday I went to see my primary care physician regarding the fibroids and suggestion of a hysterectomy.

I showed him my bloated belly and complained that my fibroids were getting too big... his medical assistant weighed me in, and I've put on 8 pounds since the last time I visited late last year... which is actually a big deal for my otherwise tiny frame.  As it turns out, it's not entirely from growing fibroids...

He had me lay down and pressed around my belly... and it turns out, I've been comfort-eating to make up for lost iron (my desperate attempt at replacing lost energy through consuming lots of sugar).  I will admit that was an embarrassing moment, LOL!

We discussed my blood loss and symptoms of anemia, and after commenting that I look pale (even for me, which is not good since I'm part Irish, Scottish and British), he gave a requisition form to get my hemoglobins checked with a blood test.  The earliest I can get in at the lab right now (with all the Covid stuff going on) is October 26.  That's just as well, since I don't want to get blood drawn while menstruating heavily, since I need as much blood as I can keep right now...

Take a look at these comparison pictures

Me in 2011 on wedding day with Rob, and me today (October 8, 2020):

Over the past 9 years, gradually-increased blood loss has led to anemia, which has led to a dangerously low level of iron in my body.  I often get comments on how pale I look these days, and back when I was still in touch with my (narcissist) mother, she sometimes said I looked almost like a zombie with "gaunt cheeks". Though it might've been partially insult, she wasn't wrong... my health is visibly deteriorating... 

Anyway, one time during a recent period, I went to pee and was bleeding like a pig with it's throat cut!  It was awful how much was coming out and how quickly... I don't normally do this since it's vulgar and indecent, but for medical reasons I came back with my phone (after washing hands) and took a reference photo to show him.  He had a very appropriate response, which was horror, and then he wrote another prescription for Cyklokapron, which helps blood form clots and stop flowing so freely out of the body. The picture is below...

TRIGGER WARNING - GRAPHIC CONTENT BELOW...

PHOTO BLURRED SO IT'S NOT AS DETAILED...

The above is just from wiping after peeing, and not sure how that much blood needed to come out at once, but it was very heavy, watery and bright red!  This is exactly the reason that women with heavy menstrual bleeding caused by underlying health conditions, need to see your doctor right away to get it taken care of.  It can become life-threatening!

On a side note, I took a couple of Cyklokapron pills this morning. Frankly the only way I'm even able to, is by taking 2 chewable Gravol gingers with them, to ward off the nausea that comes with them.  It is a minor side effect but worth it to be safe 👍

Thank you for sitting through my gross posts, I appreciate you being along on this journey with me!

Fibroids and Frequent Urination

 If you've ever been pregnant, then you know the awful feeling of "WTF!? I just emptied my bladder 20 minutes ago!"  Of course, this can also be a symptom of diabetes, due to overactive kidneys trying to filter.... but there is something specific about this when you fibroids - like a growing baby, these tumors 'rest' against the bladder, making it near impossible to hold our urine for long periods of time 😠

Unfortunately, short of stopping drinking water, the only real way to treat this is to get rid of your fibroids, either by a myectomy or hysterectomy.  After 6-8 weeks of recovery, you should be starting to feel better. 

On a personal note, and this is very likely relatable among all the women with fibroids, for the past few weeks, I've been getting up in the middle of the night to pee a river, which is very disruptive to sleep.  It's not too terrible if I can sleep in, but the days I need to get up at 6am for work, it's unacceptable.  And it makes me feel kind of helpless, since I cannot just decide not to stay hydrated - I still need to drink water, and do at bed time because our room is dry enough to cause morning nose bleeds.  I'm not looking forward to the whole concept of having a hysterectomy, but boy am I looking forward to not having to deal with urinary urgency anymore... I'm only 32 years old, LOL. 

If you are experiencing any symptoms which could be caused by fibroids, please make an appointment with your gynecologist! 

Fibroids and Spotting

 

From "The Shining" by Stephen King and Stanley Kubrick 

If you have fibroids, then you likely already know how damn easy it is for them to start a spontaneous bleed!  Of course, the most common cause of heavy fibroid bleeding is menstruation... as blood flows to the uterus to become part of the lining which eventually sheds, blood flows to and through the fibroids, like a funnel!  

Since there is no real way of stopping this externally (aside from taking lots of tranexamic acid medication), it can become life threatening if not properly treated!  At the very least, it will certainly cause anemia from loss of iron.  

Fibroids, as they grow, develop their own blood vessels for nourishment... like something out of a Hollywood horror movie! 

Image belongs to www.jvir.org

Other examples of what causes spotting/bleeding from fibroids:

• Overexertion; exercising too hard, lifting something too heavy, etc.
• Emotional stress, as it can cause high blood pressure.
• Poor diet, specifically consumption of too much caffeine, which can cause high blood pressure.  Try a variety of (non-alcohol) beverages for relaxation. 
• Aggressive sex, either with a partner or toy.  If you have fibroids and they're prone to bleeding, try to steer clear of vibrating sex toys.  If intercourse causes bleeding, ask your partner for clitoral stimulation instead. 
• Heat - whether it's a hot tub, a hot bubble bath or using a heating pad for cramping, heat increases blood flow and can cause you to literally need a transfusion - I came damn close a couple years ago when using Icy Hot pain relief patches and had to go to the ER for bleeding from it. 
• Other health issue, such as obesity, diabetes, hypertension or something that can cause issues with circulation in your body. 

To avoid bleeding, at least until you've had your hysterectomy or other fibroid treatment, keep yourself calm, hydrated, well-rested and be careful with your limitations.  If you know what triggers your spotting (which is bleeding during a time that's not your actual period), then don't do that thing.  And please, see your gynecologist pronto 🩸

 

Make sure to get checked out!

Fibroids and Bloating

 Fibroids are benign tumors, which means they can definitely have some girth to them.  Some fibroids removed from women, have been the size of a grapefruit... so it's no surprise that they can make a woman appear 2-3 months pregnant in some cases.

In fact, in a sick way, when a uterus is riddled with fibroids (especially the kind that sit inside the lining of the uterus), it's like the patient is "pregnant" with them... so it's actually quite common that women with this condition will opt for maternity pants for comfort!

A uterus with a large fibroid inside it

The only real way to relieve this bloating, is to either have a myectomy to remove the fibroids themselves... but due to risk of heavy bleeding from this procedure (and knowing that fibroids can grow again) a hysterectomy is much more common.  After about 8 weeks of healing, a lot of women who have had a hysterectomy report a great sense of relief!

Here is a personal example of what my belly has started to look like...

Anyway, if you are experiencing a heavy, bloated feeling and you have tested whether it's dietary, and you know you're not pregnant, please make an appointment with your gynecologist!

1-year Anniversary

 Hi everyone!  👋

So, I wouldn't really call this a "celebration", exactly... just can't believe that it's already been a year + 1 day since this blog was started!

In early September last year, I got diagnosed with fibroids after having seriously heavy bleeding, prolonged periods, and excruciatingly painful cramps.... it was a surreal diagnosis, especially when the doctor told me to get a hysterectomy to ease the symptoms and reduce the risk of fatal bleeding...

Admittedly, I was tempted to get that surgery right away, but I was also in the middle of a major life change, with leaving one long-time job and starting a new one... so that time period didn't work.  Then we had a family trip shortly after that, so eventually - against my better judgement - I put this much-needed hysterectomy on a back burner....

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It's currently September 29, 2020, and there is no doubt that my fibroids are causing me more grief... 

• I constantly have a "swelly belly" that feels heavy and painful. It makes me look 2-3 months pregnant, and causes low-grade aches 24/7.  The maternity pants are actually feeling tight now.
• There is spotting that is hard to monitor... it's random enough now that I basically wear light pads 24/7 now, and sometimes use a tampon before enjoying a bath at any time of the month....
• This spotting has thrown a wrench into mine & Rob's intimacy... it's scary not knowing if I'll "break the damn" and bleed all over him and the bed 😨
• It's becoming the norm to get up in the middle of the night and pee a river... even when I don't drink a lot of water before bed, the growing fibroids' weight rests on top of my bladder while lying down. It's been waking me up almost constantly!
• Quite frankly, my fibroid symptoms are at a point where I kind of feel like I'm already recovering from a hysterectomy, since some of the symptoms can be similar.

So, after my hubby's upcoming birthday in early October, I'm going to pull up my belt, sniff with pride, and call my family doctor for a year follow up, leading to surgery.... It feels like it's time...

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Before I go today, I'd like to mention that, as a surgery looms in the future, the heaviness of financial uncertainty weighs on both mine & Rob's minds.  Yes I do have savings put aside for that time period... it's just that I don't yet know how many weeks I'll be recovering, and how much work I'll be missing.  My position at work doesn't really offer much in the way of sick leave or medical benefits, which is why I've been working on building up savings... 

                                                                                                                                                                      

Anyway, as you know, I'm a cartoonist by trade and have a Patreon page about it. I'd really appreciate if you could consider making small monthly pledges, and in exchange, you'll get rewards such as coloring pages, stickers, and more. 

Thank you for being with me along the last year of this journey!

This time last year...

 Wow.  It's already been over a year since I first got diagnosed with fibroids... 

I remember feeling horrified, relieved, and partly expecting it, as fibroids do run in my family and both my mother and grandmother have had hysterectomies due to them. 

It was within the first week of September that I sat in the doctor's office, already suspecting something serious, going by his tone. Especially since he tried calling me shortly after the ultrasound I had prior.  After he told me, we discussed possible treatment options... I had a lump in my throat, as I was on the verge of tears, but trying to sound strong I casually suggested birth control pills to slow down the bleeding... he thought about it, but said that would make the bleeding even heavier.  He strongly suggested a hysterectomy was best, especially since my "main" fibroid seems to take up almost half my uterus... did at the time in 2019, I don't know about now...

I thanked him for his time, and went on my way for a light lunch to the Dairy Queen across the street... I was in such a daze, that I accidentally bit off a small part of the tip of my tongue (ouch!) while eating... to this day, the tip of my tongue is misshapen from it.  I still felt like crying, and a lot of thoughts were going through my head... I was trying to come up with the right words to tell my husband that I'd need this surgery... and confirmed forever that we won't be having any babies. 

 I took a ruler and drew, as per what the measurements were in the ultrasound findings, my womb and the fibroids' size in relation. The biggest one seems to be the main culprit for the cramping pain and the heavy bleeding... it was 2.5 cm wide at the time, and a year later, probably bigger! 

So, though I know it's very important to get these removed for my health (to stop being anemic, to reduce the risk of fatal hemorrhaging, to improve quality of life with no cramps, etc.) it seemed that everything was happening to impede the ability to have surgery at the time...

• I was in the process of leaving one job and beginning another (this blog started on September 28, which is the same day I left my job at Old Navy after 7 years). 
• We had family trips coming up, pre-booked long in advance so I wasn't able to be recovering at the same time...
• After the trips, I was going to try again to book a surgery, but the Covid19 pandemic hit, and the hospital closed down to anything considered non-emergency, while they dealt with lots of cases of the bug. Now they are slowly reopening...

I feel mentally and emotionally (and physically) ready for this surgery now that it's been so long since diagnosis... just need to make an appointment with my family physician and get more tests to see where I stand with these fibroids, and then we can go from there...

Fibroids and Sugar

 Recently, I found out something kind of scary about fibroids... they crave sugar.  More accurately, that explains why I always crave sugar.  This morning, I had a Nutella waffle for breakfast... and then 2 hours later, I made another one 😭  

Admittedly, I don't usually indulge to this degree, but I will admit that over the past 4-5 years, my cravings for sweet have increased to the point where I feel almost desperate for my next "fix".  I've racked up quite the debt on my card, which I tap to the vending machine every other day at work, for an Oh Henry! bar (my favorite). 

Kicking the sugar habit cold turkey is near impossible. My brain & tongue are too trained... but the good news is, I can start making healthy choices - and if sugar cravings get you too, then read on:

• Strong soothing flavors - such as peppermint, ginger & cinnamon - can be great alternatives and all have health benefits. They can be found (or put) in green tea. 
• Choose water over pop, and put fruit or fruit juice into the water for a boost of flavor.
• Use honey instead of refined sugar, on things like cereal or toast.
• Opt for smoothies over milkshakes, and yogurt over ice cream - when possible.
• It's okay to indulge in actual sugar sometimes - just not all the time!
• Choose chocolate covered nuts or granola bar over typical candy snacks.
• Dark chocolate = less sugar and healthy antioxidants. Yay!
• Limit it to no more than 1 treat per day. More than once a day is a problem...

Cutting back sugar won't single-handedly get rid of fibroids, but it can sure help slow their growth and make things like cramps less intense over time... Plus, you'll feel better overall!

Pictures of Belly Bloat

 Hello all!

As you know, fibroids can be the size of a pea, or they can eventually become the size of a grapefruit! Mostly, they remain somewhere in between... in many cases, their size can make a woman appear several weeks pregnant as they fill the womb...

For example, all of these are pictures of me from over the years (many are before I even knew about having fibroids). I currently look approx. 2 months pregnant, and have for quite a long time... tune in to a future post to hear all about my new collection of super-comfy maternity pants!

Some of the above photos date back to about 2010... so something was already beginning and would just worsen over time. Along with a slowly growing belly, I also experienced worsening cramps and heavier flow! It just doesn't get better... 

Anyway, I'm getting hesitant to wear the white sweater-dress pictured above (on my 26th birthday), because it's really begun to emphasize "the bloat".  My response to "Oooh, what are you expecting?" will be, "a hysterectomy."

Strange Bleeding and Another Follow Up

Hello lovely ladies (and others here), 

It's now July 8 and I haven't been keeping up regularly with this blog as much as I'd like to.  It's been quite busy at work (customer service desk at a hardware store during the Summer).  Anyway, in late May I made a follow up post for you.

I had all-but bragged that my last period was relatively short and pain-free, but now I'm back to a point of on again/off again spotting, as well as near-constant lower abdominal cramps.  As noted, these tend to get worse when I'm under emotional stress, so I try to relax and take it easy as much as possible, and turn to journaling when I simply have waaaay too much on my mind! 

📓🖉

So now I'm having another issue... and I don't know what to make of it.  For the past about 5 days I've been spotting (which I've gotten used to), but now there appears to be a bit of blood that leaks out from my urethra.... it scares me to death to have to go to a doctor and have them examine me, since I don't want anything being put in there (the thin tube above the vaginal opening, where urine and female ejaculate come out of).  I imagine it would be quite painful and lead to a nasty infection... and I finally confessed - very embarrassed - last night to my husband about it, and he said we should see a doctor since I have today off work. 

However, my period this month was due in only 3 days, and seems to have gone ahead & started... so maybe this is a blessing in disguise? I can pray and hope that the urethral bleeding will clear up on it's own, or better yet - that I just imagined it or was mistaken.  

Either way, I know I will eventually need to go back to a doctor, now that the Covid-19 situation is lifting and hospitals and doctor's offices are letting in limited amounts of people with masks and appointments... 

😷

In the meantime, I am looking forward to buying more maternity jeans like these ones here

**This blog is intended to share a personal journey with an intimate issue, and readers are strongly encouraged to open up and share personal issues too. This is intended to be a safe space for you. A place to relate and realize you're not alone.

Menopause and Irony

Prior to the diagnosis of having several fibroids, the symptoms I'd been experiencing made me believe I may be going through an early menopause.

I actually believed this to the point that I began researching the likelihood, and what the symptoms would be like - I'd been experiencing very irregular & heavier periods, as well as a lot of stress, abdominal pain, vaginal pain/discomfort with intimacy, troubled sleep, bloating, feverish hot flashes both in bed and at work, and mood swings.

Well, I'm 32 years old as I write this and will likely get a hysterectomy done prior to 40, and if they take my ovaries (won't know until the surgery) then I will be catapulted into an early menopause, which may include symptoms such as:

Limited libido/vaginal dryness, mood swings, hot flashes, brain fog, and the others I'd been experiencing, listed in the second paragraph above. 

😭🌡🛌😠🎂🍟😕

The irony of this is that I thought, before my diagnosis, that I might've been in for an unnaturally early menopause - but the fibroids will likely require a hysterectomy which has the potential to put me into menopause anyway!

🤣

Belly Bloat and COVID-19 Stress

This is a photo of my belly, in my new "maternity" jeans. It's bloated because of having a distended uterus caused by ever-growing fibroids.  I've been asked already if we're expecting, and we're not.

 This explains why I was never able to "flatten" my tummy with abdominal crunches...

Anyway, prior to learning I have fibroids, I always thought it looked strange when staring at it from above - whether that be in the bathtub, half sitting up in bed, or just sitting around in general.  I look at it a lot from the side in mirrors, as well.  When I tell someone I feel bloated, they almost always skinny-shame me and make the moment awkward.


Here are more images of these comfy new jeans (I plan on getting more later when I can afford to, and when it's safe to shop again:

 

I really love how the band just hugs my bloated belly (swollen uterus), but it isn't tight!  I am looking forward to eventually replacing the jeans with buttons... with these beauties 😍 

On COVID-19-induced Stress:

It's no secret that fibroids have blood vessels of their own (which is why the periods can be so damn heavy!), and it's no secret that emotional stress increases blood pressure, which in turn, increases bleeding.  Thankfully, prior to this period, it's been months since my last "outburst" in the summer of 2019.  But since this coronavirus has spread, and all the news sources, social media, and basically the entire world have been putting out warnings about it, I've been getting increasingly worried.  Believe it or not, it's not the thought of being sick that frightens me. It's the way the world as we know it is shutting down, and frankly, I'm frightened for the economic future.  My shifts are being drastically cut at work, and I dread the thought of possibly having our home put into foreclosure if we cannot afford the mortgage.  My husband is a fast food manager and right now, it's basically drive-thru only, so he is coming home early. I am happy to see him of course, but it seems soon, neither of us may be going to work for awhile.. and will need to apply for a government grant to help out.  These thoughts increase my bleeding, and I've been having my current period for about 8 days now... and was spotting lightly before that.  I've been taking my iron supplements to the best of my ability, since right now, it's not as easy to go to the doctor about symptoms.

I was ironically told by a friend, recently, that now everyone's nearly out of work, I should go ahead and have a hysterectomy.  As tempting as that it, right now, hospitals cannot really cater to non-emergencies.  It's just not safe right now to bring in potential germs where there are very sick patients, plus the staff & resources are currently focusing on this virus.  I respect that.

Thankfully, I haven't been overexerting myself recently (with my shifts so aggressively cut), so I'm mostly taking it easy at home.  The bleeding seems to be slowing down today, so that's a good sign.  And I'll take another iron supplement with lunch today.

In the meantime, it's important right now that we:

• Listen to our government officials - and heed their advice!
• Only go out for things we need, like extra food & medication.
• Practice social distancing, but in the most respectful way possible.
• Keep ourselves and our hands and surfaces we touch, clean.
• This means please do not cough or sneeze on your hands. Please use your inner elbow.
• Bow rather than hug or shake hands... it's been an alternate sign of respect for centuries.
• Reach out to loved ones and neighbors over the phone, and offer services.
• Distance ourselves from the sick and from the vulnerable.
• Keep a positive mindset and share the love 💗

Being Cold All The Damn Time

Believe it or not, this annoying (and sometimes embarrassing) phenomenon is a symptom of fibroids.  Well, it's caused by a symptom of fibroids: Anemia due to loss of iron from heavy blood loss.

This may not sound like it's related to needing a sweater or wanting to sit by a fireplace, but there is a correlation.  According to one medical website - Crozer-Keystone Health System - the loss of oxygen, iron and nutrients from anemia, can lead to a slew of problems such as tiredness and cold extremities, but is often easily fixable with iron supplements and a healthier diet.



Despite my tiny frame, I wasn't always freezing as a child or adolescent.

Me in 2016, about 28

In fact, even in my earlier adulthood, I don't recall constantly requiring a sweater.  It was around when my periods began to become heavy a few years ago, that I started to always be cold [the entire month and not just "that week"].  I just wasn't yet aware of the correlation between the two.


Anyway, I'm writing this blog post to let people know the reason that I shiver in room temperature and wear 4 layers of clothes is nothing funny, and I have a legitimate medical reason.  And it is very mean to mock and tease me over it.  The nerve! :)

Seriously though, if you know anyone in your life who is tiny, pale, or otherwise almost not quite like you, please think before judging and don't put her or the spot or make a scene about it. Though you may harbor some resentment for the skinny, I can tell you just how unpleasant it is to have to wear a housecoat around home in June when everyone else is nice & warm. 
Thank you for your consideration. 

What is it Like to Have Fibroids?

Though fibroids eventually become common for a lot of women (often starting in the 30s, and becoming more likely as we age), not every woman has them and may wonder what it is like to have them.  For instance, you may want to visit your family doctor or gynecologist if you experience any of the following symptoms...

  [From my own experience] it started with very irregular and very heavy "menstrual" bleeding.  It started up about 2.5 years ago (in Spring of 2017), where my periods were quite heavy - to the point where I ended up in the ER in May.  I was light-headed, dizzy and slightly nauseated from blood loss. As it turns out, I'm bordering on anemic and need iron supplements and a blood-clotting medication called Cyklokapron.  In addition to that, the cramps would feel like someone was karate-kicking me in the lower abdomen... the cramps were bad enough to occasionally cause fever, chills, vomiting and cold-sweats.  I've had to go home sick from work because of them.

In addition to heavy periods, they also cause frequent and irregular ones... I one time had over 6 weeks of continuous spotting, with some occasional "periods" - the bleeding went for near two months!  The anemia makes me tired, and also very cold most of the time.  I have to dress in layers and have the heat turned up high, since my body can no longer naturally warm itself.  

In 2018, I was diagnosed with IBS (irritable bowel syndrome), because I was experiencing a great deal of painful, gassy bloating (often looking 3 months pregnant), gradually-increasing bowel disturbances (less "regular" than I used to be), and some nausea.  Now it makes sense - my bowels are being pushed against by the ever-growing fibroids.

The fibroids are also putting pressure on my bladder, which leads to more frequent urgency.  Sadly, this can happen at night when I'm sound asleep, which is an annoying trip to the bathroom, with blurry eyes, that makes me feel like I may as well be 80 years old.

To be honest, as they were developing (before I was officially diagnosed in September 2019), I thought it might be perimenopause - the beginning stages of menopause, though at 31 I'm kind of too young for that. Perimenopause made sense to consider, due to my mood and sleep disturbances, changes in bathroom habits, irregular menstruation, and of course mild vaginal pain and discomfort with sexual intimacy. That's only been occurring for the last year or so... and again makes me feel like I may as well be 80.


🔴 🔴 🔴 🔴 🔴 🔴 🔴 🔴 🔴 🔴 🔴 🔴 🔴 🔴 🔴 🔴 🔴 🔴 🔴 🔴 🔴 🔴


Just a recap, the symptoms of fibroids may include:

•  Heavy, prolonged uterine bleeding that can extend beyond typical periods and include spotting for weeks or months at a time.  If you soak through a pad or tampon within an hour or less, see a doctor!
• Anemia (loss of iron) which leads to feeling cold, tired, & hungry a lot of the time.
• Vaginal pain, dryness or other sensitivity with intimacy.
• Pressure on your bowels and/or bladder, which can change your bathroom habits over time.
• Nausea, fever, sometimes chills - this may be caused by nerves in the area as the fibroids grow.
• Highly visible and painful bloating, which eventually interferes with being able to wear jeans.
• Constant 'tummy ache' pain, similar to low-grade menstrual cramps.
•  A feeling of 'heaviness' and pressure in the lower abdomen, vagina, and lower back.

When in doubt, ask your family doctor or gynecologist about new symptoms developing. 👍
 

What is Ekobi(TM)?

Yes, I did say I planned on going for a hysterectomy to resolve the unpleasant (and unsafe!) symptoms of my uterine fibroids...

Then, that thought was [at least temporarily] halted when I saw something awesome on the news last night, here in Alberta - there is a new technology for UAE (Uterine Artery Embolization), which involves the first biodegradable product for blocking the blood flow to the fibroids.  It is made, essentially, from the same material for dissolving stitches, and will eventually break down in the body when it's ready - after the fibroid tumors have shrunk from no more nutrition supplied by blood.


The awesome thing about this is that, while fibroids are being starved of blood, they should not be bleeding and the heavy periods [and related anemia] should subside - what great news!


I admit I was dreading the next appointment with my family doctor, having to ask about the next steps in booking a hysterectomy - now I feel excited to try this minimally-invasive procedure first, and see what becomes of the fibroids afterward.  Admittedly, I will probably still require a hysterectomy down the line (hoping for next autumn), but this can be a great delay in fibroid-growth.


Anyway, check out the website for Ekobi™

 

Bleeding from Fibroids

Hello there,

Today's post is sort of a PSA (public service announcement).  It's about the unfortunate effects that emotional stress has on your uterus when you have fibroids.


So for the past couple of years, I've been dealing with worsening anxiety symptoms... and it can get very bad, to the point where I'm having full meltdowns - crying, shaking, yelling, swearing - the works!  Well, when something from my life triggers this event, something else happens too...

I begin to bleed vaginally... like a period, but not.  It can happen just a few days after the end of the most previous period, and often only lasts 1-3 days, depending on how stressful the trigger is.  I've learned to do things like cut back on caffeine (sorry, coffee), try deep breathing techniques and of course, journalling to help me put the stress into healthy perspective.  Then the bleeding lets up.

This "stress bleed" is caused by a spike in blood pressure, which bursts the randomly-developed ones that feed the fibroids - which is where the PSA part comes in...

Ladies - if you've been dealing with fibroids - or any condition that leads to abnormal uterine bleeding - then it's imperative that you keep your blood pressure at a reasonable level.  This is something to discuss with your doctor, and many adults do see their physician about stress - so you have nothing to be ashamed of, and you will likely come away with lots of great techniques!



Here are some of my personal favorite de-stressing techniques:

•  Throw on a good tune like "The Cha Cha Slide" by DJ Casper, or any music that feels very happy to you 😃
• Do some light housework - it's good exercise, and you accomplish something clean. Win-win.
• Go for a walk on your block, or stand outside on your step or balcony - the fresh air is great, even on a crisp winter day. 
• Cut back on caffeine... try decaf coffee for your "fix", or a hot chocolate, peppermint tea or any relaxing beverage.
• Also drink more water - hydration feels great!  Your skin will look great, too. 
• Do some light yoga... maybe to relaxing music...
• Practice some deep-breathing and mindfulness exercises...
• Write out your stressors in a journal/diary - rant about them!  Then, go back and look at them from a problem-solving perspective.  When you do this, your problems shrink.
• Lock yourself in the bathroom for a bubble bath & spa facial.
• Hang out with a really good friend, and laugh together.
• Watch a classic comedy show or movie with positive (non-political) vibes.
• Go to a pet store or shelter and interact with cute animals - if you can, adopt one so you can spend time with them often.

Techniques that are not a good idea:

• Having sex or masturbating, since these will only increase your bleeding in that region. 
• Drinking alcohol or indulging in junk food to soothe your woes - that won't end well. 
• Giving in to anger and intentionally raging - this only increases your stress hormones and your blood pressure... you want calm, not rage.
• Ranting on facebook - this will only put people off, and you'll probably lose friends, as well as respect.  Do you really want to be known for being angry?

Anyway, hope the above tips help you if you've ever experienced sudden vaginal bleeding during a time of stress.  Remember to always check with your doctor if this is the first time this has happened, or if it happens to you often.  Your health is very important!