Uterine fibroids are common non-cancerous growths of the uterus that often appear during childbearing years. While they are usually not dangerous, they can cause discomfort and, in some cases, lead to complications. Managing uterine fibroids involves understanding their impact at different stages of life and taking proactive steps to address any symptoms or concerns. In this age-by-age guide, we'll explore how uterine fibroids can affect you at different stages of life and offer tips for managing them effectively.
In Your Teens and Twenties
Uterine fibroids are less common in younger women, but they can still occur. However, if you start your period before age 10, you may be at increased risk of developing fibroids later in life, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
During these years, it's essential to pay attention to your menstrual cycle and any changes in your periods. If you experience unusually heavy or prolonged bleeding, severe menstrual cramps, or pelvic pain, it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider.
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Naghmeh Salamat Saberi, M.D., OB/GYN division director at University of California Irvine Health in Irvine, CA explains, that these factors can also affect your sexual desire in your 20s, which is around the age that many women start considering starting a family.
“Treatment of fibroids may depend on your age and your reproductive goals,” Dr. Saberi tells Health Central.
Establishing a healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise and a balanced diet can help support overall reproductive health.
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In Your Thirties and Forties
This is the peak time for uterine fibroids to develop and cause symptoms. As you approach your thirties and forties, it's crucial to monitor any changes in your menstrual cycle, as well as any symptoms such as pelvic pain, pressure, or an increase in menstrual bleeding.
Planning to get pregnant? Most women with fibroids can conceive naturally and have successful pregnancies.
However, because the hormones associated with pregnancy can promote fibroid growth, your fibroids may enlarge during pregnancy, potentially affecting your baby's position and increasing the risk of growth issues, breech birth, or premature delivery.
Your doctor might recommend removing or treating your fibroids before you conceive to minimize these risks.
If you have been diagnosed with uterine fibroids, discuss your symptoms with your healthcare provider to explore management options. This may include medication to control symptoms, hormonal treatments, or, in some cases, surgical procedures.
As you approach your 40s, you enter perimenopause (the stage before menopause). During this stage, your body undergoes various changes, which can be confusing because the symptoms often overlap with those of fibroids.
Additionally, fibroid symptoms are often more troublesome during perimenopause, as the growths can reach their largest size (some can grow larger than a watermelon, Bala Bhagavath, M.D., OB/GYN and medical director of University of Wisconsin Health’s Generations Fertility Care Center in Middleton, WI tells Health Central).
If you no longer wish to have children, your treatment options for fibroids may expand to include hormonal therapies or hysterectomy.
In Your Fifties and Beyond
As you enter menopause, the production of estrogen and progesterone decreases, which can lead to a reduction in the size of uterine fibroids and a decrease in symptoms.
However, if you have been experiencing symptoms of uterine fibroids leading up to menopause, it's essential to continue monitoring your health and discussing any concerns with your healthcare provider. While menopause can bring relief from uterine fibroid symptoms for some women, others may continue to experience symptoms that require management.
“For a woman who is very close to menopause—say, 50, and her periods may stop soon—you might use [hormone therapy] tablets to put her in artificial menopause until natural menopause has occurred, rather than something like hysterectomy,” Dr. Bhagavath notes.
General Tips for Managing Uterine Fibroids
- Stay Active: Regular physical activity can help manage symptoms and improve overall well-being.
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Being overweight can increase the risk of uterine fibroids and worsen symptoms.
- Eat a Balanced Diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can support reproductive health.
- Manage Stress: Stress can exacerbate symptoms, so finding healthy ways to manage stress is essential.
- Stay Informed: Educate yourself about uterine fibroids and stay proactive in managing your health.
Managing uterine fibroids is a journey that evolves with age. By staying aware of your body's changes, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and seeking medical guidance when needed, you can effectively manage uterine fibroids at every stage of life. Remember that every woman's experience with uterine fibroids is unique, so working with your healthcare provider to develop a personalized management plan that meets your specific needs is essential.
