If you’re reading this blog post, it’s probably because you’ve just received your pap results and guess what - they’re abnormal.
Your first thought? What does this even mean?
An abnormal pap means that there are abnormal cells on your cervix → referred to as cervical dysplasia. Your pap result will also give you a rough idea of the grade of dysplasia - how severe the dysplasia is, but to be most accurate this is best followed up by a colposcopy and/or biopsy.
Cervical Dysplasia (CIN 1)
Depending on the grade, your health care provider may recommend that you repeat the pap in six months, refer you to a colposcopy clinic for further assessment or recommend a LEEP procedure to remove the abnormal cells. Regardless of the recommendation, patients are often told that there’s nothing they can do to affect the health of their cervix.
Not. True.
“You can affect the health of your cervix”
There is a whole host of things you can do to take charge of your cervical health after an abnormal pap result - here are my Top 5 Things you can do about your cervical dysplasia right now!
Consult your ND to see if Escharotic Therapy is right for you
Depending on the degree of cervical dysplasia, a course of escharotic therapy may be a good option for you. This is a topical treatment applied directly to the cervix in your ND’s office over a series of 8 - 12 sessions. The treatment selectively targets the abnormal cells while sparing healthy cervical tissue.
Strengthen your Immune System
Cervical dysplasia is caused by HPV - a virus that is virtually everywhere in this world. A healthy immune system should be able to fight off this infection within appx. two years. If the immune system isn’t working properly, HPV can persist in cervical tissue and continue to cause damage to the cells. Ways that you can support your own immune system include getting adequate Vitamin D, eating a Mediterranean-like diet, ensuring enough sleep and using targeted supplements like a mushroom complex.
Boost your intake of Cervix-Friendly Foods
Your diet has a HUGE impact on your cervical health! Diets high in Vitamin C, carotenoids, Vitamin E and selenium have been found to be protective against cervical cancer. Higher levels of vegetable consumption were associated with a 54% decrease of HPV persistence. Include such nourishing foods as pumpkin, kale, peppers, carrots, broccoli and spinach.
Balance your Hormones
Some research suggests an excess of estrogen may contribute to the development of cervical cancer. This is highly individual, but your cervix does respond to hormonal changes throughout your cycle. If you notice painful periods, PMS symptoms like bloating and irritability or heavy periods, this could be a sign that your hormones need some support.
Find Activities that Promote your Creativity and Relaxation
Stress and anxiety directly suppress your immune system and now you know that you need a robust immune system to kick that HPV infection. Studies show that a highly anxious state is even correlated with cervical dysplasia! There’s no right or wrong way when it comes to the best way to relax - find what resonates with you. It could be going for a walk in nature, a high energy spin class, taking up that painting class you’ve been putting off - whatever the activity, choose something that connects to your creativity and nourishes your sense of peace.
So there you have it - 5 Things you can do right now to heal your cervical dysplasia. The mainstream message is that there’s nothing you can do - just sit back and wait for that next pap test or colposcopy appointment. No way - there are so many things you can do to take charge of your cervical health and heal your dysplasia. Go for it!