Fibroids are noncancerous growths that develop in or on the muscular wall of the uterus. Many women develop fibroids at some point, but usually they don't cause symptoms and don't require treatment. However, some fibroids cause troublesome signs and symptoms — such as heavy menstrual bleeding and pelvic pressure — that may worsen after menopause.
Common symptoms of fibroids after menopause include:
- Heavy and prolonged menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia). You may experience periods lasting more than 7 days or cycles shorter than 21 days. Your flow may be so heavy that you soak through pads and tampons quickly. Large blood clots may also pass through your vagina.
- Pelvic pressure and pain. Fibroids can compress nearby structures and cause a constant dull ache or sharp pain. This is often worse during your period.
- Bladder issues. Large fibroids may press against your bladder, causing urinary frequency, urinary incontinence or difficulty emptying your bladder completely.
- Constipation and bloating. Fibroids that press against your rectum can cause difficult or infrequent bowel movements.
- Anemia. Excessive menstrual bleeding can cause anemia, a condition in which your blood lacks enough healthy red blood cells. Signs and symptoms include fatigue, shortness of breath and weakness.
After menopause, when a woman's
estrogen levels decline dramatically,
fibroids usually shrink. But some fibroids may remain after menopause and cause continued symptoms:
- Heavy bleeding. Some women continue to have excessive menstrual bleeding after menopause.
- Pelvic pressure and pain. Fibroids don't always shrink enough to alleviate compression and pain in nearby structures.
If you have new onset or persistent fibroid symptoms after menopause, see your doctor. An imaging test, such as an ultrasound or MRI, can confirm if fibroids are present.
Treatment options for fibroids after menopause may include:
- Watchful waiting. If fibroids aren't bothering you, your doctor may recommend coming in once or twice a year to monitor them.
- Medication. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists can shrink fibroids by suppressing estrogen production. But these drugs cause menopause-like side effects and can only be used short term.
- Uterine fibroid embolization. This minimally invasive procedure cuts off blood flow to fibroids, causing them to shrink. Studies show it provides symptom relief for 85% to 90% of women with fibroids.
- Hysterectomy. Removal of the uterus is the only sure way to resolve fibroid issues. This permanent solution may be an option if you've completed childbearing or have other indications for hysterectomy.
There are also natural ways to help manage fibroid symptoms without resorting to surgery, such as:
- Avoiding xenoestrogens: Chemical compounds that mimic estrogen in the body may stimulate fibroid growth. Limiting use of conventional body care products and plastics can help reduce xenoestrogen exposure.
- Trying herbal remedies: Herbs like milk thistle, vitex, red clover and turmeric have hormonal and anti-inflammatory benefits that may ease fibroid symptoms. Work with an experienced herbalist for guidance.
- Optimizing hormones naturally: Engaging in stress relief practices while supporting the body's natural detoxification process can encourage hormonal balance. Nutrients like B vitamins, magnesium and zinc are particularly important. () for customized natural hormone solutions.
The takeaway is that
fibroids sometimes persist and cause troublesome symptoms after menopause. Heavy, prolonged menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain and pressure are common complaints. If problematic fibroids remain, uterine artery embolization or hysterectomy may be necessary. But non-surgical options like
natural hormone balancing strategies are worthwhile to try first. Check with your doctor to explore the pros and cons of each approach.
