What You Need to Know about Uterine Fibroids after Menopause

But it’s important to note that this medical condition does not disappear along with the reproductive years. In fact, women sometimes have issues with fibroids long after they begin menopause. Here are a few things you should know about uterine fibroids after menopause.

1. Uterine Fibroid Growth Tends to Stop After Menopause

Since there is a drop in estrogen levels in the body during this physiological change, uterine fibroid growth stops. In some cases, the fibroids will actually shrink and relieve some of the associated symptoms.

2. Symptoms of Fibroids Stay the Same After Menopause

No matter how old you are, the symptoms of fibroids can still be the same. You may experience things like:
- Abdominal enlargement
- Lower back pain
- Bladder or bowel pressure
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Fatigue
In severe cases, fibroids can even cause anemia and pain in the legs.

However, some women have fibroids and never or rarely experience symptoms.

3. Hormone Replacement Therapy Can Allow Fibroids to Continue Growing    

  
The artificial hormones found in replacement hormones act just like estrogen in the body, which means they encourage the growth of fibroids. Speak to your doctor if you are concerned about this side effect of your menopause treatment.

Overall, fibroids after menopause can still be a problematic thing, but not always and not for all women. If you are concerned about uterine fibroids after menopause, call the Georgia Vascular Institute at 770-506-4007  or click here to schedule an appointment.