Fibroids and Perimenopause: What Your Body Might Be Telling You

Hot flashes. Mood swings. Irregular periods. If you’re in your 40s or early 50s with these symptoms, it could be a sign that perimenopause is starting, the marked, natural transition toward menopause. This phase can lead to uncomfortable, unpredictable menstrual cycles and physical and emotional symptoms that fibroids can worsen. In this article, we’ll discuss perimenopause, what to expect, the connection to fibroids, and the best management for maintaining well-being. 

 

Understanding Fibroids and Their Impact on Perimenopause 

Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous tumors composed of smooth muscle cells and other tissues that develop in or on the uterus.¹ Fibroids are increasingly common, affecting a whopping 80% of women and people assigned female at birth by 50.¹ Fibroids can be a singular growth or a cluster with a range of sizes, from a little seed to a watermelon. Fibroids seldom turn cancerous.

 

Fibroid symptoms in females

Fibroids, also called uterine leiomyomas, are often asymptomatic, with symptoms severity dependent on size, number, and location.² Signs and symptoms that could indicate fibroids include:

• Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding.
• Pelvic pain or pressure.
• Frequent urination.
• Difficulty emptying the bladder.
• Constipation.
• Long-term or chronic vaginal discharge.
• Increased abdominal enlargement.
• Back or leg pain.
• Painful intercourse.
• Reproductive issues such as infertility or complications during pregnancy. ²  

Pain from fibroids can vary among women. Some women experience heaviness, dull aches, or cramps, while others may get sharp, stabbing pain. It’s best to see a medical practitioner if you experience these or sudden similar symptoms. 

 

What Causes Fibroids? 

The exact cause of uterine fibroids remains unknown. Research suggests that they often grow during a female’s reproductive years, when estrogen and progesterone levels are highest, with these hormones believed to play a key role in fibroid development. ¹

Certain factors can increase the risk of developing uterine fibroids, including:

• Being overweight or obese.
• Being in your 30s or 40s.
• Having a family history of fibroids.
• Never having been pregnant.
• Starting your period before age 10.
• Experiencing menopause later than average.
• Having low vitamin D levels.
• Eating a diet high in red meat and low in vegetables, fruits, and dairy.
• Consuming alcohol. ³

 

The Connection Between Uterine Fibroids and Perimenopause

 

Some women experience more intense perimenopausal symptoms with fibroids, including heavier and/or more extended menstrual periods, pelvic discomfort, and increased urination. These symptoms can substantially impact a woman’s quality of life during this transition.

Perimenopause Explained 

Perimenopause precedes menopause, usually starting in the mid-40s, but it can begin earlier or later. On average, perimenopause lasts three to four years, but it can be shorter or much longer, lasting up to a decade. ¹  

Your body might be telling you that perimenopause is starting if you experience:

• Irregular or missed periods.
• Heavier or lighter bleeding during periods.
• Mood changes, like feeling irritable or low.
• Hot flashes.
• Night sweats.
• Vaginal dryness.
• Changes in sexual desire.
• Sleep problems.
• Frequent urination.  
• Headaches.
• Joint and muscle aches.
• Issues concentrating.
• Excessive sweating. 1

 

Fibroids During Perimenopause

Perimenopause causes significant hormonal changes affecting many aspects of the body, including uterine fibroids. Research suggests that about 30% of newly diagnosed fibroids occur during this phase.2

How do hormones influence fibroids?

1. Estrogen sensitivity: Fibroids are extremely sensitive to estrogen, so when estrogen levels rise, fibroids proliferate, with some women experiencing enlargement during perimenopause.
2. Progesterone fluctuations: Changes in progesterone can contribute to symptoms such as heavy or irregular bleeding.
3. Declining fertility: As ovulation becomes irregular, bleeding can become unpredictable, and fibroids can make this increasingly pronounced.¹

Understanding hormone shifts and fibroid growth can help anticipate changes for management strategies. Symptoms usually, but not always, ease upon menopause.1

 

Understanding Risks of Fibroids

While fibroids are typically benign, their complications include:

• Anemia: Chronic heavy bleeding that may lead to iron deficiency anemia.
• Infertilité: Certain fibroid types, particularly submucosal fibroids, can interfere with implantation or pregnancy.
• Pelvic pressure: Large fibroids may press on organs, causing chronic discomfort.
• Surgical intervention: In severe cases, fibroids may require procedures such as myomectomy or hysterectomy.1

If you suspect fibroids, particularly during perimenopause, it’s important to speak with a healthcare provider – find one near you using the Physician Finder Tool. Diagnosis can involve a physical exam, a non-invasive ultrasound to confirm the presence, size, and location of fibroids, or an MRI for more detailed imaging if the fibroids are large. A hysteroscopy or sonohysterography procedure is done if direct visualization of the uterine cavity for submucosal fibroids is needed. 

 

Supporting Yourself Through Perimenopause With Fibroids 

If you are diagnosed with uterine fibroids, these lifestyle habits may help: 

• Eat low-processed foods.
• Limit red meat.
• Avoid alcohol.
• Cut down on caffeine.
• Do some moderate exercise daily. 
• Reduce your stress levels and include stress-reduction techniques.
• Get at least 7 hours of sleep a night.
• Have regular pelvic exams.

 

Listen To The Signs Your Body Might Be Telling You

Perimenopause is a completely natural phase that can come with challenges, particularly for those with fibroids. Understanding the connection between these changes and fibroid growth empowers women to take steps for their health. In recognizing symptoms, consulting healthcare providers, and exploring both medical and lifestyle approaches, you can navigate this transitional period with confidence. Your body gives signs. Be sure to listen carefully and seek timely medical advice in managing fibroids during perimenopause. Learn more about Caldera Medical.