Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths in the uterus that affect many women, often leading to pelvic pressure, abdominal swelling, and heavy menstrual bleeding. While the exact cause of fibroids is unknown, they are strongly associated with hormonal imbalances, particularly elevated levels of estrogen and progesterone.
At Minneapolis Functional Medicine, Dr. Alexander Y. Zubkov, MD, PhD, offers a personalized, non-surgical approach to fibroid treatment using advanced functional medicine and Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT). This approach addresses the root causes of fibroids, offering relief and long-term hormone balance.
Common Symptoms of Fibroids
Fibroids can significantly impact your quality of life, and conventional treatments often involve surgery. At Minneapolis Functional Medicine, we focus on helping your body heal naturally by correcting hormonal imbalances and supporting overall health.
If you’re concerned about symptoms such as pelvic pressure, abnormal bleeding, or abdominal bloating, it's a good idea to speak with your doctor or gynecologist. They can perform a pelvic exam to check the size and shape of your uterus. If fibroids are suspected, they may recommend further testing to evaluate the number, size, and location of fibroids. These diagnostic tools may include:
---Ultrasound
---MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
---Hysteroscopy
---Saline Hysterosonography
Identifying the exact characteristics of your fibroids is an important step in creating an effective treatment plan.
While fibroids are not a common cause of infertility, pregnancy-related hormonal changes can cause existing fibroids to grow in size and number. As fibroids enlarge, they may increase the risk of complications during pregnancy and delivery. These may include:
---Preterm labor
---Breech presentation
---Placental abruption
---Increased likelihood of cesarean section
Expecting mothers with fibroids should be closely monitored to ensure a healthy pregnancy and delivery.
The good news is that uterine fibroids are almost always benign. It is extremely rare for a fibroid to become cancerous, and current research shows no evidence that fibroids increase the risk of developing other cancers.
Fibroids can affect any woman of reproductive age, but certain factors may increase the risk, including:
---Age (more common in women in their 30s and 40s)
---Family history of fibroids
---Obesity
---High intake of red meat or alcohol
---Low vitamin D levels
These risk factors may influence the growth and severity of fibroids.
In many cases, fibroids remain small and asymptomatic, requiring no intervention. However, if left untreated and symptomatic, fibroids may cause:
---Difficulty conceiving or complications during delivery
---Persistent pelvic or abdominal pain
---Heavy menstrual bleeding leading to anemia
If you’re experiencing ongoing discomfort, heavy bleeding, or fertility challenges, it may be time to seek expert care.
If you’re looking for long-term relief from fibroid-related pain or hormonal imbalance, Dr. Alexander Y. Zubkov, MD, PhD, in Minneapolis offers compassionate, personalized care using Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy. This natural, non-surgical treatment approach helps restore hormonal balance, relieve symptoms, and improve overall health and well-being.
Schedule your consultation today and start your journey to feeling better, naturally and safely.
What Makes BHRT Different From Regular HRT?
The main difference is the type of hormones used. Traditional hormone therapy often uses synthetic hormones that aren’t an exact match to the ones your body makes. These can cause unwanted side effects because your body may not fully recognize them.
BHRT, on the other hand, uses hormones that are bioidentical: they’re chemically the same as the ones your body naturally produces. They’re typically made from plant sources like yams or soy, making them more natural and better tolerated by most people.
Can I Buy Bioidentical Hormones Online?
You might see bioidentical hormones sold online, but we strongly recommend against it. These products often lack proper regulation, may contain unknown or unsafe ingredients, and might not even include real hormones.
Even if they are legit, without medical guidance, you won’t know which hormones you need, in what dose, or what delivery method is right for you. That’s why it’s important to work with a trained provider like Dr. Zubkov, who will customize a safe and effective treatment plan just for you.
What Forms Does BHRT Come In?
BHRT can be delivered in different ways, including:
--Pills
--Creams
--Patches
--Pellets (inserted under the skin) (we do not recommend this form)
--Injections
Each option works differently, and your provider will help you choose what works best for your needs and lifestyle.
How Much Does BHRT Cost?
Costs can vary based on which hormones you need, how they're delivered, and how long your treatment lasts. Pricing will be determined by compounding pharmacy, schedule a consultation with Dr. Zubkov.
Does Insurance Cover BHRT?
Coverage depends on your specific insurance plan. Some plans may cover parts of BHRT, but it’s best to check directly. Most of the plans, unfortunately, does not provide coverage
Is BHRT Safe?
Yes, when prescribed and monitored by a qualified provider like Dr. Zubkov, BHRT is generally safe. We’ll review any potential risks or side effects with you before starting treatment so you can feel fully informed and comfortable.
What Conditions Can BHRT Help With?
BHRT can help manage many issues related to hormone imbalance, such as:
--Menopause symptoms (like hot flashes, mood swings, sleep problems)
--Low libido
--Fatigue
--Brain fog
--PMS or PMDD
--And more
Sometimes BHRT is used to treat symptoms, and in other cases, it addresses the root cause of a condition. Dr. Zubkov will guide you through the best approach for your body.
Still Have Questions?
It’s completely normal to have more questions! We’re here to help before, during, and after treatment. Schedule your first visit.
Dr. Zubkov combines the latest in functional medicine with BHRT to create a customized treatment plan tailored to your hormonal profile and lifestyle. This plan may include hormone therapy, nutritional support, lifestyle changes, and targeted supplementation to reduce fibroid size and alleviate symptoms.
This non-invasive, root-cause-focused strategy supports natural healing and helps avoid unnecessary surgeries or long-term pharmaceutical use.
Why Choose Functional Medicine for Fibroids
If you're experiencing fibroid-related symptoms and looking for a more natural, effective solution, schedule a consultation with Dr. Zubkov at Minneapolis Functional Medicine. Get to the root of your symptoms and feel better from the inside out.
Minneapolis Integrative and Functional Medicine doctor, Alexander Y. Zubkov, M.D., treats women struggling with uterine fibroids using bioidentical hormone replacement therapy in Hennepin County and Bloomington, Brooklyn Center, Brooklyn Park, Champlin, Chanhassen, Crystal, Eden Prairie, Edina, Golden Valley, Hopkins, Maple Grove, Minneapolis, Minnetonka, New Hope, Plymouth, Robbinsdale, Rogers, St. Louis Park, Saint Paul, Eagan, Woodbury, Coon Rapids, Burnsville, Blaine, Lakeville, St. Cloud, Stillwater, Hudson, River Falls, Chaska, and Shakopee.
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