Fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in or on the muscular wall of the uterus. After menopause, when a woman's estrogen levels decrease significantly, existing fibroids usually shrink or disappear. However, this does not mean they have become cancerous.
The vast majority of fibroids are completely benign (non-cancerous). There are three main types:
- Intramural fibroids - grow within the muscular uterine wall
- Subserosal fibroids - grow on the outside of the uterus
- Submucosal fibroids - grow just underneath the uterine lining
Risk Factors for Developing Fibroids
There are several evidence-based risk factors associated with developing fibroids:
- Being over age 30
- African American ethnicity
- Obesity
- Never having had children
- Family history
- Unmanaged stress
- Estrogen dominance - estrogen levels significantly higher than progesterone
Most fibroids shrink after menopause when estrogen levels substantially decline. However, some data indicates that in rare cases, fibroids may persist after menopause or even newly develop.
Can Fibroids Become Cancerous?
The medical community emphasizes that uterine
fibroids are distinct from cancerous tumors like uterine sarcomas.
- Fibroids are almost always non-cancerous, while sarcomas are malignant.
- Fibroids grow slowly while sarcomas grow rapidly.
- Microscopically they are quite different - fibroids have dense cores while sarcomas are more spongy.
However, medical literature does indicate
extremely rare instances of fibroids undergoing malignant transformation.
- This phenomenon is estimated to occur in less than 0.2% cases.
- Complex atypical hyperplasia occurring in dense fibroid cores may be associated.
- Rapid growth after menopause may indicate sarcomatous change.
So while fibroids becoming cancerous after menopause is high unlikely, women should still monitor fibroids for any signs of atypical growth.
Fibroid Symptoms after Menopause
Fibroids may cause symptoms like:
- Heavy, prolonged menstrual bleeding
- Pelvic pain and pressure
- Bladder dysfunction
- Painful intercourse
As most fibroids shrink after menopause when estrogen levels decline, associated symptoms often resolve. However, some data indicates that
submucosal fibroids that bulge into the uterine cavity may be more prone to persisting after menopause. Symptoms may include:
- Postmenopausal bleeding
- Pelvic pressure
- Bladder dysfunction
If abnormal bleeding or rapid fibroid growth occurs after menopause, medical attention is warranted to rule out malignant changes. Thorough evaluation often involves imaging tests and biopsy.
Treating Fibroids after Menopause
Most fibroids require no intervention as they shrink on their own after menopause. However, treatments may be advisable if fibroids become problematic, persistently bleed, or show atypical growth after menopause.
Non-surgical treatment options may help control symptoms:
- Medications like NSAIDs and low-dose birth control pills
- MRI-guided ablation using ultrasound waves or thermal energy
- Uterine artery embolization to cut off the blood supply
If more aggressive treatment is warranted, surgical options range from less invasive procedures like endometrial ablation of the uterine lining to major surgery:
- Myomectomy - removes just the fibroids
- Hysterectomy - removes the uterus, guarantees symptom relief
The skilled physicians at Balance & Renew Clinic routinely help women optimize their hormone levels to shrink troublesome fibroids without surgery. Call today to learn about science-based natural hormone replacement options!
