Exploring the Menopause-Fibroids Connection

If you or a loved one have uterine fibroids, you may hope that menopause will provide relief.

While some fibroids shrink after menopause due to lower hormone levels, not all will, and symptoms may persist. Understanding the menopause-fibroid connection is key to managing symptoms effectively.

At Dallas Fibroid Center, we specialize in helping women manage fibroid symptoms at every stage of life. We offer non-surgical treatment options for lasting relief.

To learn more about the menopause-fibroid connection, contact our team or continue reading below.

What is menopause?

Menopause is the permanent end of menstrual cycles, officially diagnosed when you’ve gone 12 consecutive months without a period.

It typically occurs in your early 50s but can also be induced through medical procedures like hysterectomy or certain cancer treatments.

Stages of Menopause and Fibroid Impact

Menopause doesn’t happen overnight. Instead, it progresses through three stages:

• Perimenopause – Hormonal fluctuations can cause fibroids to grow or shrink unpredictably. Symptoms like heavy periods and pelvic pain may persist.
• Menopause – After 12 consecutive months without a period, estrogen levels drop significantly, which may reduce fibroid size.
• Post-Menopause – Fibroid growth usually stabilizes, but symptoms can persist, especially if HRT is introduced.

Does Menopause Shrink Fibroids?

No, not all fibroids shrink after menopause.

While some decrease in size due to lower estrogen and progesterone levels, others may persist and continue causing symptoms like pelvic pain and pressure.

Additionally, women who start hormone replacement therapy (HRT) after menopause may experience fibroid regrowth due to increased hormone exposure.

Menopause and Fibroid Symptoms

The impact of menopause on fibroid symptoms varies:

• Some women experience symptom relief as fibroids shrink naturally.
• Others notice persistent or worsening symptoms, including pelvic pain and bloating.
• A healthcare provider should always evaluate post-menopausal vaginal bleeding, as it may indicate fibroids or other underlying conditions.

Fibroid Risk Factors

Certain factors increase the likelihood of developing fibroids, including:

• High blood pressure
• Obesity
• Vitamin D deficiency
• Family history of fibroids
• High-stress levels
• Never having been pregnant
• Being of African-American or Asian ethnicity
• Age over 40

Managing Fibroid Symptoms After Menopause

While menopause may naturally shrink fibroids, some women continue to experience discomfort.

Symptom management strategies include:

• Lifestyle changes – Regular exercise and a balanced diet can help reduce inflammation and discomfort.
• Minimally invasive treatments: Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) is a non-surgical option that shrinks fibroids by cutting off their blood supply. It provides long-term relief without major surgery.
• Medications – Birth control or hormone-regulating medications can help control fibroid symptoms in certain cases.
• Surgical options – While some women consider hysterectomy post-menopause, it’s not the only solution. Minimally invasive treatments like UFE can provide relief without removing the uterus.

Finding Relief for Post-Menopausal Fibroids

If you’re still experiencing fibroid symptoms after menopause, seeking treatment can improve your quality of life.

Studies show that UFE is a viable fibroid treatment for post-menopausal women, providing significant symptom relief without major surgery.

At Dallas Fibroid Center, we offer advanced, minimally invasive treatment options to help women of all ages find relief.

Whether you’re in perimenopause, menopause, or post-menopause, we’ll help you determine the best approach to managing your fibroid symptoms.

Schedule an appointment today or call 469-341-5997 to explore your treatment options.