Why are more middle-aged women getting affected by Uterine Fibroids?

Have you ever noticed how our moms and middle-aged women around us often complain about back pain, weight issues, or irregular periods? These symptoms, which they often brush off as just signs of ageing, can sometimes signal underlying health issues like Uterine Fibroids. Dr. Jyotsna Mirlay, a highly regarded specialist with 33 years of experience in Obstetrics & Gynaecology shares a closer look at why more women in this age group are being affected:

As women age, especially during their middle years, hormonal changes become more pronounced. These changes, particularly fluctuations in Estrogen levels, can lead to the development of fibroids. Oestrogen is a hormone that increases during pregnancy and peak reproductive years, and its imbalance can trigger the growth of these noncancerous tumours in the uterus. Unfortunately, many women dismiss the symptoms associated with fibroids, such as heavy periods, pelvic pain, and frequent urination, attributing them to normal ageing or PMS.

Lifestyle factors also play a significant role. The demands of modern life—balancing work, family, and personal responsibilities—often lead to unhealthy habits. A sedentary lifestyle, combined with high-stress levels, can result in conditions like high blood pressure. Studies have shown that women with untreated hypertension are at a higher risk of developing fibroids. The pressures of urban living and career demands can also exacerbate these risks, leading more women to experience these health issues.

Menopause, another critical phase in a woman’s life, brings its own set of challenges. As women transition into menopause, their hormone levels fluctuate more erratically. This hormonal upheaval can contribute to the growth of fibroids, with studies indicating that over 30% of newly diagnosed cases occur in women aged 45-49, during this transitional period.

Treatment Options: Beyond Surgery

When women think about fibroids, many believe that surgery is their only option. However, advancements in medical treatments have introduced less invasive alternatives that are both effective and more comfortable for patients.

One such option is Interventional Radiology (IR), particularly a technique known as Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE). UFE is a minimally invasive procedure that offers a quicker recovery time compared to traditional surgery. During UFE, an interventional radiologist, under X-ray guidance, accesses the blood vessels supplying nutrients to the fibroids through a small incision in the wrist or groyne. Tiny particles are then injected to block the blood flow to the fibroids, causing them to shrink. This procedure is not only less painful but also allows patients to return to their normal activities much sooner.

Prioritising Health: A Call to Action

For middle-aged women, who are often the caregivers in their families, it’s crucial to prioritise their own health. The demands of daily life can make it easy to overlook symptoms or delay medical check-ups, but self-care is essential. By following a healthy lifestyle, managing stress, exploring treatment options like UFE, and staying on top of regular medical check-ups, women can take control of their health and effectively manage or even prevent the impact of fibroids.