Uterine Fibroids After Menopause - Treatment and Management Options

Understanding Uterine Fibroids After Menopause

Fibroids after Menopause are not usually a cause for concern. In many cases, the fibroids shrink and cause fewer symptoms after Menopause. But for some, they may disrupt their rhythm of life.

What Are Uterine Fibroids?

The fibroids originate from uterine smooth muscle cells called myometrium, whose growth is primarily dependent on the levels of circulating estrogen. These are benign growths made of smooth muscle and connective tissue in the womb(uterus).

Uterine fibroids typically are seen in three significant locations: 

• Subserosal (outside the uterus)
• Intramural (inside the myometrium) 
• Submucosal (Inside the uterine cavity)

Why Do Fibroids Persist After Menopause?

In women, Menopause is a phase of decline in estrogen and progesterone, the hormones that fuel fibroid growth. 

Then, why do these fibroids remain after the drop of these hormones?

The reasons for the growth of these uterine fibroids are the following:

• Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) - Supplemental hormones may escalate fibroid growth
• Obesity- The estrogen produced by excess body fat can keep fibroids active
• Genetic Predisposition- Family history may influence fibroid persistence

Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids After Menopause

Menopause doesn’t always mean freedom from fibroids- but understanding your symptoms is the first step to relief.

Even after Menopause, fibroids can linger and cause:

• Pelvic Pain or Pressure: A constant discomfort that feels hard to ignore.
• Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding: Rare but still possible post-menopause.
• Frequent Urination: When fibroids press on your bladder, even a small amount of urine feels urgent
• Constipation or Bloating: Digestive troubles caused by fibroids pressing on the bowel
• Pain During Intercourse: Fibroid placement can make intimacy uncomfortable
• Distended Abdomen: Larger fibroids can mimic weight gain or bloating

When to Seek Medical Attention

“Generally, fibroids are benign. But, if postmenopausal symptoms like unusual bleeding or pelvic pain persist, do not ignore it. Timely evaluation can rule out serious conditions like uterine cancer and guide effective care”- Dr Aswathy Krishna, Senior Ayurveda Consultant Nirva Health.

Be vigilant about the symptoms you experience. Consult a healthcare provider if you have any of the following symptoms:

• Unusual vaginal bleeding.
• Persistent pelvic pain or pressure
• Sudden or severe pain
• Difficulty urinating or frequent urinary tract infections

Treatment Options for Uterine Fibroids After Menopause

With the right approach, relief for uterine fibroids is within reach. Managing the fibroids after Menopause should not feel like a challenge. It is easier than it seems when you have proper guidance.

1. Watchful Waiting

Yes! You read that right. Sometimes, the best course of action is to simply observe.

Give it time!

Not every fibroids needs intervention.

• If fibroids are small, asymptomatic, and not growing, no treatment may be needed.
• Regular monitoring through ultrasounds or pelvic exams ensures they remain stable and do not affect your well-being.

2. Medications

Want relief without surgery?

When symptoms need attention but you do not want surgery as an option, then the following medications can step in to find relief.

a) Hormone Replacement Therapy(HRT):
While HRT can sometimes worsen fibroid symptoms, adjusting or discontinuing it under medical guidance may help alleviate symptoms.

b) Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) Agonists:
Do you know about GnRH? 
It’s a hormone that regulates reproductive functions. GnRH agonists mimic this hormone to control estrogen and progesterone levels. They shrink fibroids by reducing hormone production. While effective, they are typically used short-term due to side effects like bone loss.

c) Pain Relievers and Iron Supplements 
Combat fibroid-related pain with Non-Steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs(NSAIDs) and tackle anaemia caused by heavy bleeding with iron boosters. These simple yet effective remedies help you regain energy and improve overall health.

3. Minimally Invasive Procedures

For quick recovery and effective results without the hassle of major surgery, minimally invasive procedures are a great choice.

Take a look into some of those procedures for a balanced approach to treatment.

a) Uterine Fibroid Embolisation (UFE):
In UFE, the procedure cuts off the fibroid’s blood supply, causing it to shrink over time.

b) MRI-Guided Focused Ultrasound Surgery (FUS):
No scalpel, No Stitches- just focused results! Yes, this is FUS. A non-invasive option that uses precise ultrasound waves to destroy fibroid tissue.

c) Hysteroscopic Myomectomy:
This procedure is commonly used to remove submucosal fibroids through the vagina using a hysteroscope. It offers targeted relief without major surgery.

4. Surgical Options

If symptoms persist despite other treatments, surgical intervention may be the key to delivering the results you deserve. 

a) Myomectomy:
This procedure removes fibroids while preserving the uterus. Myomectomy is ideal for women with severe symptoms who prefer to retain their uterus.

b) Hysterectomy:
For large or persistent fibroids, the surgery called hysterectomy(removal of the uterus) offers a permanent solution.

5. Lifestyle and Home Remedies

Transform your lifestyle and everyday habits with natural remedies to take charge of your fibroid symptoms.

It’s simpler than you think!

6. Diet and Nutrition:

• Eat a balanced diet that includes fruits and vegetables, whole grains and lean meat
• Increase Fiber: A fibre-rich diet supports digestion and helps reduce bloating.
• Anti-Inflammatory Foods: Leafy greens, berries, and fatty fish may help reduce inflammation.
• Limit Processed Foods: Reduce sugar and unhealthy fats that can worsen symptoms.

Read more on Top Menopause-Friendly Foods to Naturally Balance Your Hormones.

7. Regular Exercise:

Stay active!

Even a daily walk or light stretching can make a difference in how you feel.

a) Maintain a Healthy Weight: 
Regular exercise helps to regulate hormones and keeps weight in check, both of which can reduce fibroid growth

b) Reduce Pressure:
Physical activity can ease the pressure fibroids exert on surrounding organs.

Do you want to know some exercises that you can practise to stay fit after menopause? Read about them at Nirva Health- Menopause Fitness: Exercises to Stay Active and Fit Throughout

8. Stress Management:

Making time for yourself is not only a form of self-care; it is also a crucial part of controlling the symptoms of fibroid disease.

Some of the best methods for managing stress are:

• Yoga 
• Mindfulness exercises
• Practices for deep breathing

You can enrol in our yoga sessions at Nirva Health if you want to practice yoga or are unclear about the proper practices.

Preventing Fibroid Complications 

Even while fibroids are not always preventable after menopause, you can prevent difficulties by following these easy steps:

• Keeping a healthy weight in mind.
• Restricting the amount of alcohol consumed.
• Controlling long-term illnesses like diabetes or high blood pressure.
• Arranging for routine gynaecological examinations.
• For personalised guidance and support, our experts at Nirva Health are here to help you navigate your journey with care and understanding.

Wrapping Up

Although less common, fibroids after menopause can still cause discomfort or complications.

From watchful waiting to medications and minimally invasive procedures- there is a solution to every situation, depending on the severity of symptoms. 

Changing one’s lifestyle to include regular exercise and a nutritious diet might help control symptoms. 

Need personalised support?

At Nirva Health, our experts are ready to guide you in every way to provide a tailored treatment plan. 

Book your appointment here.

Read more on: Mental Health in Menopause: Handling Emotions, Stress and More - The Natural Way