Can Uterine Fibroids Grow During Menopause
Uterine fibroids (leiomyomas) are benign tumors that form on or within the inner lining of the uterus. While fibroids can occur at any time in a woman’s life, they are more common during childbearing years. But can fibroids increase in size during menopause?
American Fibroid Centers are leading experts in the diagnosis and treatment of uterine fibroids. We also provide uterine fibroid embolization (UFE), a minimally invasive way to manage these growths in Brooklyn, Queens, Fishkill, Harlem, West Orange, NJ, and Cincinnati, OH.
Below, we discuss the link between uterine fibroid growth and menopause. Call now for an appointment with a leiomyoma specialist in your area.
What causes fibroids to grow?
Factors like race and family history influence the development and growth of uterine fibroids. Another factor that drives fibroid growth is estrogen. Estrogen is produced at higher levels during a woman’s childbearing years, which explains why fibroids are common in the years before menopause.
Diet and lifestyle factors also contribute to the growth of existing leiomyomas. For example, red meats and processed foods tend to release estrogen as they are consumed. Patients are encouraged to maintain a nutritious diet with fresh fruits and vegetables to reduce their risk.
Do fibroids grow during menopause?
Menopause occurs when a woman’s ovaries stop producing eggs. This transition usually happens in women between the ages of 45 and 55.
During menopause, estrogen levels are known to decline. This decrease in hormone production leads to many changes in a woman’s body, including hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness. In some cases, menopause can also cause fibroids to shrink.
It’s also possible for fibroids to grow during menopause. As mentioned earlier, estrogen production is not the only factor that drives fibroid growth—diet and lifestyle choices play a role as well. Patients in Brooklyn, Queens, Fishkill, Harlem, West Orange, NJ, and Cincinnati, OH can receive the expert care they need at American Fibroid Centers.
What are the symptoms of fibroids?
Large uterine fibroids cause a number of unwanted symptoms that impact a woman’s quality of life. These may include bloating, pelvic pain, urinary incontinence, abnormal menstrual cycles, and discomfort during intercourse. Those seeking a minimally invasive way to manage fibroids can receive uterine fibroid embolization at American Fibroid Centers.
Patients must undergo an evaluation to determine their candidacy for this procedure. Our team may ask about current symptoms and if menopause has begun. We also review a patient’s medical history and order imaging tests to get a better look at the fibroids themselves.
How does uterine fibroid embolization work?
UFE is an outpatient procedure that stops the blood flow to leiomyomas, causing them to shrink over time. The procedure is performed by trained specialists who use the latest tools and equipment in the industry. American Fibroid Centers can serve women of all backgrounds, whether they are of childbearing age or currently going through menopause.
Treat fibroids with UFE
Menopause can be a difficult time for women. American Fibroid Centers is here to help patients manage uterine fibroids and improve their quality of life. Learn about our minimally invasive procedure by calling a qualified team member in Brooklyn, Queens, Fishkill, Harlem, West Orange, NJ, and Cincinnati, OH.
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