Natural Methods to Treat and Prevent Cervical Dysplasia
Cervical dysplasia is a term used to describe the occurrence of abnormal, sometimes pre-cancerous cells in the cervix...
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Cervical dysplasia is a term used to describe the occurrence of abnormal, sometimes pre-cancerous cells in the cervix, the lowest part of the uterus. Having regular PAP smears is the single most important habit a woman can adopt to detect dysplasia.
The stages of dysplasia can be classified as mild, moderate or severe. Early diagnosis of dysplasia is important as the majority of mild cases may regress on their own, but they can be treated with proper defensive measures. In more severe or untreated cases, the risk of invasive cervical cancer is much higher. This progression into cervical cancer may occur slowly over the years or may evolve aggressively over a shorter period of time.
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Early detection and treatment of dysplasia is essential for cancer prevention. For this reason, most physicians remove suspicious cervical lesions right away and see their patients every three to six months for regular PAP smear tests to rule out a recurrence.
Risk Factors
There are certain known risk factors linked to cervical dysplasia including multiple sexual partners, poor nutrition, STDs (especially HIV and human papillomavirus (HPV)), low immunity, smoking and possibly the birth control pill.
HPV Infection
80% to 90% of women with cervical dysplasia have an HPV infection.
HIV Infection or Immune Suppression
Women who are infected with HIV are at a greater risk for developing dysplasia. Suppression of the immune system from anti-rejection drugs for organ transplants or weakened immunity from other causes also increases the likelihood that dysplasia will not resolve on its own.
Smoking
Nicotine and other chemicals found in tobacco products have been found in the cells of women who smoke. These chemicals may cause cellular changes leading to abnormal PAP smears. Surprisingly, men who smoke also secrete these same chemicals in their semen which then contact the cervix during intercourse without a condom and can lead to cellular damage in their partners.
High-Risk Sexual Behaviour
Beginning sexual activity early, having multiple sex partners or having sex with a man who has had multiple sex partners are high-risk factors for cervical dysplasia.
Poor Nutrition
There is growing evidence that certain vitamins, such as folic acid, B2, B12 and B1 are essential for cervical cell health. Poor dietary habits also weaken the immune system. Ultimately, a decreased ability to fight viral infections such as HPV leads to the risk of developing cervical dysplasia.
Oral Contraceptives
Some research shows that women who use oral contraceptives may be at a higher risk for developing cervical dysplasia. However, it is not clear if the risk is directly attributed to the hormone products in contraceptives or to the depletion of folic acid that occurs with regular use of the birth control pill.
Natural Treatment Options
It is imperative to implement lifestyle changes not only to treat cervical dysplasia, but also to prevent a recurrence. A liver cleanse using herbs such as dandelion, milk thistle, turmeric and artichoke is highly recommended to improve healthy hormonal balance. You can also follow these tips for obtaining more healthy hormonal balance.
Nutrition: Elimination of unhealthy, inflammatory fats is highly beneficial. This includes foods such as red meats, full-fat dairy products, peanut products and other foods containing hydrogenated oils. Include vegetables and salads with your meals two times a day, lean protein the size and width of your palm three times a day and include healthy fats such as olive oil, avocadoes and walnuts with each meal. All “white” processed products should be avoided.
Supplements: The most important supplement for treatment and prevention of cervical dysplasia is folic acid because of its known role in formation of healthy DNA in fast growing cells such as those on the cervix or the digestive tract wall (colon). It is often prescribed at doses of 5 mg to 10 mg per day. The pre-cancerous nature of dysplasia makes antioxidant protection a must. Minerals such as selenium, magnesium and zinc along with vitamins E, A and C offer a first line of defense. Since cervical dysplasia may also be caused by an excess of estrogen, indol-3-carbinol and B vitamins are especially useful for healthy hormonal balance.
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