Fibroids After Menopause
What are fibroids?
Uterine fibroids are a very common benign growth, meaning it’s non-cancerous.
These fibroids grow inside the uterus and can range in size from small to large and even multiple fibroids.
In many cases, they don't have symptoms and don’t cause any issues. But in other cases, they can cause heavy menstrual bleeding, abdominal pain, discomfort during intercourse, and other symptoms.
There are treatments available that focus on reducing symptoms. A doctor may opt to reduce the hormones associated with fibroids or recommend more serious treatment, such as surgery, if necessary. It is important for women of all ages to be aware of the characteristics of uterine fibroids and understand how to properly address them if needed.
Is it possible to get fibroids after menopause?
Fibroids after menopause can occur and symptoms may vary depending on the type and severity. However, women who are pre-menopause are much more likely to develop fibroids.
Fibroid symptoms after menopause:
Women who have gone through menopause may experience symptoms such as the following:
heavy menstrual bleeding
pelvic pressure or pain
backache or leg pains
frequent urination
pain during intercourse
infertility
It’s also important to remember that symptoms of post-menopausal fibroids can be similar to other medical conditions, so it’s recommended that women consult their physicians and make informed decisions about treatment options.
With the right combination of fibroid knowledge and care, symptoms from post-menopausal fibroids can be managed successfully.
If symptoms begin to interfere with everyday activities, it’s important for women to speak to their physician about treatment options.
Will my fibroids still be a problem after menopause?
“Not necessarily. Your fibroids won’t be a problem after menopause, but if you are taking hormonal supplements, then there is the estrogen that feeds the fibroid and that potentially can get the fibroid to grow. So it’s the hormones that make the fibroid grow. So if you are not on any replacement, then it’s unusual to have fibroids be a problem after menopause.” -MIMIT Health’s Dr. Chopra
“In fact, a lot of the gynecologists would say if you’re very close to menopause, do not do anything. When you reach menopause, there are no hormones, so it will settle down and you won’t have a period. But that’s not always true these days; there’s a lot of replacements and other things that come into play.” -MIMIT Health’s Dr. Chopra
How do you treat fibroids after menopause?
Treatment for fibroids after menopause largely depends on symptom severity and individual health conditions.
Treatment options include medication, uterine artery embolization, endometrial ablation, hysteroscopic myomectomy or hysterectomy. In some cases, symptoms of post-menopausal fibroids may resolve without treatment.
When should I seek medical attention?
Seek medical attention if you have severe vaginal bleeding or you have new or worse belly or pelvic pain.