Re: fibroids and menopause (LONG)

[Guest guest]

Cindi,

I believe I have reached menopause. The last few months of 2002 I was

bleeding very irregularly. After my D&C 2/21/03 I stopped bleeding entirely for

about 6 months. Since then I have had 3 episodes of bleeding, there was also

breast tenderness and some cramping. The blood did not have the same appearance

as menstrual blood, darker and thicker at times and other times bright red and

thin like water. Were these periods? I am not sure. This year a " new "

fibroid appeared on my ultrasound and I have increased bulging. I am also

urinating more often, including that lovely sensation of still feeling like I

have to

urinate when I lay down in bed after just using the toilet (that is so

conducive of good sleep).

About 2 years ago I was preparing to have UAE and had an ultrasound. This

ultrasound showed some decrease in size. At the same time I was enjoying much

less frequent urination, my bowels were moving better and I felt more

comfortable. Based on those things and my age we decided to postpone the UAE.

I have seen other women in menopause here who have been troubled by fibroids.

I know, its not what we all hope for. I am obese so maybe I have more

estrogen.

I am convinced that I have had at least 1 fibroid for 25 years. In the late

70's I missed a period (was not pregnant) and was sent to a Gyno by my PCP. I

do not remember what testing was done. I don't think it was ultrasound. In

the end I was told I had an enlarged uterus but it was nothing to worry about.

In 1980 I conceived my daughter and carried her to term in a normal

pregnancy. When I went into labor, in spite of laboring for 24 hours and having

pitocin to induce more productive labor, my cervix would not dilate and her head

was down but tilted backward. She was delivered by Caesarian Section.

Fast forward to 2001 a new Gyno attempts my first endometrial biopsy 2 times

and is not able to obtain a specimen due to the location of a fibroid. 2002

my current Gyno attempts an endometrial biopsy and cannot get past that

fibroid. He does the D&C 2/21/03. March 3, 2004, current Gyno once again tries

to

do endometrial biopsy but cannot get past the fibroid. Is it too much of a

stretch to conclude that the problem in 1979 was a fibroid, that the cause of

the

problems with labor and delivery in January 1981 was a fibroid, when we know

I have a fibroid at the opening of my cervix for at least 3 years?

How close are you to menopause? Are you doing " watchful waiting " or have you

opted for some treatment?

P.

[Guest guest]

Hi ,

Thanks for your reply. You have had some history with the fibroid. I have had

fibroids for quite some time myself and recently my physician has recommended

a UAE. At first I was inclined to go forward with it but after researching

the procedure itself and experiences of others I have decided against it. To me

it sounds painful and risky and according to what I have read doesn't always

get rid of all of the fibroids not to mention that some women have

experienced them growing back. So to answer your question, I think I'll keeping

watching and waiting and try to manage the symptoms with healthy living. I am

also

against other surgical options unless absolutely a medical necessity. I only

hope that menopause will be the answer for me. Maybe you still haven't reached

your yet. Has your Physician done any tests to determine if it has started yet?

Wishing you the best!

Cyndi