Cervical dysplasia

Cervical dysplasia is an abnormal change in the cells of the cervix. It is a precursor to cancer there are no symptoms, therefore all active women should have a yearly check-up and Pap smear. It can take up to five years for the abnormal cells of the cervix to become cancerous, although in rare instances the change can occur very quickly. The average age for cervical dysplasia is thirty, while cancer occurs in the mid forties. Any abnormal bleeding during menopause, between periods or after intercourse should be investigated immediately to rule out cancer, even though there are numerous more harmless sources of bleeding.

A number of conditions which cause repeated irritation and inflammation of the cervix create an environment for cells to change. Many sexually transmitted diseases increase the risk of cervical dysplasia and cancer, including the human papilloma virus responsible for genital warts. The prevalence of genital herpes also increases the risk. Sexual promiscuity and the long-term use of contraceptive pills definitely increase risks. Smoking also increases the chance of developing cervical dysplasia and cancer. Vaginal douching, especially if done regularly, alters the natural vaginal flora and allows infections to occur more easily, thereby increasing the risk for cell changes. Certain vitamins and minerals, especially beta-carotene, folic acid and vitamin C are depleted in women with cervical dysplasia, and these supplements aid in reversing the condition.

Supplements and herbs

Successful treatment of cervical dysplasia has occurred with high dosages of folic acid, vitamin A, vitamin C and selenium. A folic-acid deficiency is often related to oral contraceptive use. Take a B complex twice daily to prevent imbalances. Vitamin E is also recommended for its antioxidant, anticarcinogenic properties. It also increases the amounts of oxygen available to the cells. Be sure to choose a natural form of vitamin E. Selenium and vitamin E work well when taken together.

Herbal remedies are excellent for stimulating the immune system.

• Rose hip tea and acerola juice are excellent for vitamin C supplementation. Take 1 cup of tea or 1 tbsp. of juice three times daily.
• Take a goldenseal douche every day for 3-4 weeks. Pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1 tsp. of the herb, steep for fifteen minutes, strain and use lukewarm as a vaginal douche (protect underwear with a pad, as goldenseal stains clothing).
• Boost the immune system by taking Echinacea tea or tincture once a week.

What else you can do

• A recent study showed a relationship between vaginal douching and cervical cancer. There were no differences with regard to douching preparations. It was concluded that frequent douching alters the chemical environment, making the cervix more susceptible to pathologic changes. There was actually a four fold risk for cervical cancer from vaginal douching more than once per week.
• Some cases of cervical dysplasia clear up without treatment, but others require cauterization. Cauterization will prevent the abnormal cells from invading the deeper layers of the cervical tissue.
• Vitamin A or Micellized vitamin A suppositories also work well. Use one nightly for four weeks.

How much to take

• Folic acid, 5 mg
• Vitamin B complex, 100 mg twice daily with folic acid
• Vitamin A, 25,000 IU
• Beta-carotene, 25,000 IU
• Vitamin C, with bioflavonoids, 1,000 mg, one to three times daily
• Selenium, 200 mcg
• Vitamin E with 400-800 IU

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