Natural Treatments for Ovarian Cysts

By Denise DeWitt HERWriter

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Ovarian cysts are sacs of fluid that form on or in a woman’s ovaries and are most common during the childbearing years. Symptoms of ovarian cysts include pain and pressure in the pelvic area, abnormal vaginal bleeding, and pain during sex. There are a number of natural treatments for ovarian cysts that can help ease these symptoms.

If you suspect that you have an ovarian cyst, the first step in treating the condition is to see your doctor for an evaluation. Most ovarian cysts are not life threatening and many go away on their own over time. But ovarian cysts can cause serious health problems if they block blood flow to the ovary, or if they contain cancer.

If your doctor determines that your cysts are not dangerous to your health and do not require aggressive treatment such as surgery, you might want to consider these natural remedies:

• Herbs – A skilled herbalist can combine herbs and other plants to help balance hormones. Be sure to tell your doctor about any herbs you are taking since some herbs can interact with other medications. Herbs that can help promote hormonal balance include Chasteberry (Vitex) , red clover, blue cohosh, dandelion, and wild yam. Other herbs that promote a strong immune system are also recommended. Talk to a qualified herbalist for specific recommendations.
• Antioxidants – Zinc, vitamins A, E, and C, black currant oil, borage oil, and evening primrose oil supplements may work as natural remedies for ovarian cysts.
• Diet – Some people believe a diet that drastically reduces or eliminates red meat can help with ovarian cysts. Others suggest a vegetarian diet including beets, carrots, dark-green, leafy vegetables, and lemons. Other recommendations include eliminating caffeine and alcohol, limiting sugars such as honey and syrup, and including foods containing B vitamins and iodine.
• Compresses – A hot water bottle placed over the lower abdomen may help stimulate circulation to speed healing. Castor oil and essential oils such as lavender, rosemary, and chamomile can also be added to the compress.
• Exercise – Exercise techniques to relieve stress may be a natural treatment for ovarian cysts. Yoga and meditation are sometime suggested, as are breathing techniques, support groups, other methods to uncover and relieve sources of stress.

Many world systems of medicine recommend natural treatments for ovarian cysts. Whatever method you chose, be sure to maintain contact with your medical doctor to make sure your ovarian cysts do not grow or cause become more serious concerns.

Sources:
National Women’s Health Information Center
Women’s Health: About.com
Answers.com Medical Encyclopedia
Holistic Online Herb Reference
Herbal Encyclopedia
Love to Know
ovariancysts.com

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We value and respect our HERWriters' experiences, but everyone is different. Many of our writers are speaking from personal experience, and what's worked for them may not work for you. Their articles are not a substitute for medical advice, although we hope you can gain knowledge from their insight.