Are uterine fibroids safe in women over 40?

Fibroids are growths of muscle and connective tissue in or around the uterus. They can cause heavy or prolonged periods, pelvic pressure, pain, urinary symptoms or difficulty with bowel movements, although some cause no symptoms. Around the years leading to menopause, hormone changes may alter bleeding and fibroid symptoms. New bleeding after periods have stopped, a rapidly enlarging abdomen or a changing mass needs medical assessment rather than being attributed automatically to fibroids. The diagnosis may involve an examination and pelvic imaging.

Arrange a review if bleeding is heavy, periods are changing, pain is affecting daily activities or you have symptoms of anaemia such as unusual tiredness or breathlessness. Bring a record of bleeding days, clots, pain, pressure and medicines. Your clinician may discuss observation, medication, a procedure or surgery according to the fibroid's position, symptom burden, menopause status and preferences. Ask how the plan would change if you are approaching or have passed menopause. Read more in Uterine Fibroids.

Seek urgent help for bleeding that soaks through protection rapidly, fainting, severe weakness, severe pelvic pain, fever or a rigid or very swollen abdomen. Contact a clinician promptly for bleeding after menopause, bleeding between periods that is new, persistent pelvic pressure, or a noticeable change in symptoms. These signs do not identify one diagnosis by themselves, but they should be assessed so that the cause and appropriate treatment are clear.

Which options fit my age, menopause status, health conditions and future pregnancy plans?