Cervical dysplasia, is a premalignant lesion (abnormal condition of cells) that can progress to cervical cancer.
It is primarily associated with a sexually transmitted strain of the human papillomavirus (HPV) and/or with the Herpes simplex virus type-II, although it has not been determined whether these viruses reflect a decreased resistance or are themselves the causative agents.
Not all women with either virus develop cervical dysplasia as there are many factors that can contribute to the progress of the disease or conversely help protect the body from it.
Invasive cervical cancer develops from precursor lesions of the cervix called cervical intra-epithelial neoplasia or CIN.
CIN 1 represents mild dyspalsia and has a high rate of spontaneous remissions and a low rate of progression to carcinoma.
CIN 2 and 3 have lower rates of remission and higher rates of progression to carcinoma.
The long term use of oral contraceptives is certainly associated with an increased risk of cervical cancer and is known to decrease levels of numerous nutrients including Zinc and vitamins C, B6, B2, B 12 and Folic acid.
Most good multivitamin tablets would supply these nutrients but better results are obtained if people use both a time released B complex tablet, plus Colloidal minerals, which will give afar better range and absorption of minerals.
Better still, would be a B complex tablet, Colloidal minerals plus a separate B12 and Folic acid capsule. This would ensure a higher levels and uptake of all these important elements.
Cigarette smoking is also known to be a major risk factor for cervical dysplasia. Cigarette smoking contributes to low vitamin C and B levels and may also depress immune functions.
Oral supplementation of Folic acid (5 -6mg daily, note this is mg NOT mcg) has long been associated with improvement or normalisation of abnormal smears, particularly in patients with early stage cervical dysplasia but it is unclear whether Folic acid supplementation would be effective in preventing the progression of more advanced dysplasia.
Further recommended supplementation would be:
– Vitamin C 1000mg daily.
– Vitamin E 200IU 2-3 times daily.
– Vitamin A and caroteniods (yellow veges).
Good results have also been shown in studies using Indole-3-carbinol. This is a phytochemical found in all cruciferous vegetables. Studies used doses between 200mg and 400mg daily, but to make more sense 400mg is apparently equivalent to about of third of a head of cabbage… eat more greens!!
Using green vege powder supplements can also help by increasing alkalinity in the body.
Some years ago I also saw a good report of improvement being found in women that used diaphragms for contraceptive purposes.
It was unclear as to whether this was due to them stopping taking the pill or whether it was due to the device providing protection to the cervix during intercourse.
As HPV is often involved, apart from these recommendations it is always a good idea to further boost the immune status as far as possible to cope with viral infection. Treatments that can be effective against this type of infection are:
– Lysine (taken at least 1000mg daily and more if infection is active).
– Herbs that have anti-viral action such as Melissa (Lemon balm), Olive leaf and Hypericum. Hypericum can be especially useful, as it helps the mind have a more positive outlook!
– Rye grass extract/greens can be effective.
– Reishi mushroom extract can also be useful.
All these hebal treatments work on boosting the immune system.
NOTE: As there are often little or no noticeable symptoms to warn of cervical dysplasia being present it is extremely important that women maintain a regular schedule of cervical smear tests.
Up-dated August 2013