Many women assume that fibroids will disappear completely after menopause. However, this isn't always the case. While decreased estrogen and progesterone levels can reduce the size of fibroids, this doesn't mean they can't reappear or grow. It's important to understand how hormonal changes work to be more aware of symptoms and risks that may persist, even after menopause. Let's take a look!
Can Myomas Grow During Menopause?
In general, fibroids tend to shrink after menopause because hormone levels, especially estrogen, decrease significantly. However, in some women, fibroids can reappear or grow back. This is usually influenced by several factors, such as:
- Postmenopausal hormone therapy (HRT) can increase estrogen levels again.
- Being overweight , because fat tissue can produce additional estrogen.
- Certain medical conditions that affect the balance of hormones in the body.
That is why, even though the risk of fibroids decreases after menopause, regular check-ups are still recommended to monitor for possible changes.
Characteristics and Symptoms of Myoma in Menopausal Women
While many women assume fibroids no longer cause problems after menopause, some symptoms can persist. To help identify them more quickly, here are some signs of fibroids to look for:
- Abnormal bleeding after stopping menstruation
After menopause, bleeding should no longer occur. If spotting or bleeding persists, this could be a sign of fibroids or other uterine problems. - Pain or pressure in the pelvic area
Myomas that are large enough can press on organs around the pelvis, causing pain or discomfort. - The stomach feels enlarged or bloated
Fibroid growth can make the stomach look larger or feel full, similar to prolonged bloating. - Frequent urination due to pressure on the bladder
Myomas that grow towards the bladder can press on the organ and cause increased frequency of urination. - These symptoms are often mistaken for normal effects of menopause.
Many of the above complaints are considered normal during menopause, so fibroids often go undetected.
These symptoms can mimic natural bodily changes during menopause, but if they persist or interfere with your daily activities, it's important to see a doctor. Early detection helps determine whether the symptoms are caused by fibroids or another health condition.
How to Diagnose Myoma After Menopause
Diagnosing fibroids in postmenopausal women involves several tests to determine whether the symptoms are due to fibroids or another condition. Initial testing typically involves imaging, but additional tests may be needed if necessary.
Commonly performed examinations:
- Transvaginal ultrasound or pelvic ultrasound: to clearly see the size, location, and number of fibroids.
- MRI (if needed): provides a more detailed image when the ultrasound results are not accurate enough.
- Biopsy: recommended if there is abnormal bleeding to confirm the nature of the tumor and exclude the risk of malignancy.
This screening is crucial, especially for postmenopausal women experiencing suspicious symptoms. Early detection helps determine the best treatment and prevent unwanted complications.
Treatment of Myoma in Menopausal Women
Treatment for fibroids in postmenopausal women generally depends on the size of the fibroid, the severity of symptoms, and overall health. Not all fibroids require aggressive treatment, especially if they are small and not causing symptoms. Possible treatments include:
- Regular monitoring
Small, asymptomatic fibroids usually require regular monitoring to ensure they are not growing or changing. - Medical action if necessary
- Hormone-reducing drugs: used in certain conditions to help reduce the size of fibroids.
- Uterine artery embolization: a procedure that cuts off blood flow to fibroids, causing them to shrink.
- Surgery: recommended if the fibroid causes heavy bleeding, presses on surrounding organs, or is suspected of having a risk of malignancy.
- Healthy lifestyle adjustments
Adopting a healthy lifestyle can help maintain natural hormonal balance. This includes maintaining a healthy weight, eating a nutritious diet, exercising regularly, and managing stress.
With the right approach and regular monitoring, fibroids in menopausal women can be managed well so that they do not interfere with quality of life.
Although menopause reduces the risk of fibroid growth, it doesn't mean women are completely immune to the possibility of developing new symptoms. Because symptoms often mimic normal postmenopausal changes, it's important to remain aware of any changes in your body.
A medical examination is very important because the doctor can determine whether the complaint is really caused by fibroids or other conditions that may be more serious, such as polyps or even uterine cancer.
Early detection allows for appropriate and more effective treatment and helps prevent complications that can impact quality of life. With regular checkups and vigilance, you can maintain optimal reproductive health.
This article was written by Dr. Ervina Ningsih, Sp.OG (Obstetrics and Gynecology Specialist at EMC Pulomas Hospital).