At 52, she thought it was menopause but doctors found a 1.7 kg uterine fibroid instead

Kozhikode: A 52-year-old woman, weighing around 93–94 kg, assumed her heavy monthly bleeding and abdominal discomfort were simply part of menopause. What doctors at Motherhood Hospitals, Lullanagar, Pune, discovered instead was startling — a massive uterine fibroid measuring 14 cm and weighing 1.74 kg, nearly the size of a seven-month pregnancy.

Speaking to Mathrubhumi, Dr Padma Srivastava, Senior Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at the hospital, said that this case underscores a growing but often overlooked concern — the link between obesity, hormonal imbalance, and fibroid growth in women approaching menopause.

“Many women assume that irregular or heavy cycles during their 40s and 50s are just a natural transition. But persistent or excessive bleeding can signal fibroids, polyps, or hormonal issues that shouldn’t be ignored,” said Dr Srivastava.

During perimenopause, estrogen and progesterone levels fluctuate. In some women, estrogen remains high for longer periods, which can trigger or accelerate the growth of uterine fibroids — benign tumors of the uterus. Compounding the problem, fat tissue continues to produce estrogen even after ovarian function declines, keeping hormone levels elevated in obese women.

The patient’s obesity, Dr Srivastava noted, also masked the abdominal swelling, delaying diagnosis. “By the time she came to us, the fibroid had grown to a size that left surgery — a hysterectomy — as the only safe option,” she said.

Untreated fibroids can cause anemia, bladder or bowel pressure, kidney complications (hydronephrosis), and severe pelvic pain, and in rare cases, may even undergo degeneration or infection.

Dr Srivastava emphasised that regular gynaecological check-ups after 40 are essential, even after completing one’s family. “Pelvic examinations, ultrasounds, and Pap smears are vital for detecting fibroids, ovarian cysts, and endometrial changes early. Annual screenings make a huge difference,” she said.

The patient has now recovered and has been advised on weight management, lifestyle changes, and regular follow-ups. “Heavy or irregular bleeding after 45 should never be ignored. Managing fibroids early helps prevent serious complications and improves quality of life,” Dr Srivastava cautioned.

5 Things Women Approaching Menopause Should Do

1. Don’t Dismiss Irregular Bleeding

Heavy, prolonged, or erratic bleeding after 45 isn’t always “normal.” Get it checked promptly — it could signal fibroids, polyps, or hormonal imbalances.

2. Get Regular Gynaecological Check-Ups

Schedule annual pelvic exams, ultrasounds, and Pap smears even after completing your family. Early detection makes treatment simpler and prevents complications.

3. Watch Your Weight

Obesity keeps estrogen levels high even after ovarian function slows down, fueling fibroid growth. Maintain a healthy BMI through diet and exercise.

4. Track Hormonal Symptoms

Mood swings, bloating, fatigue, or sudden changes in bleeding patterns can indicate hormone fluctuations that need medical attention.

5. Adopt a Preventive Lifestyle

Eat fiber-rich foods, stay physically active, manage stress, and avoid self-medicating with hormonal supplements. Prevention and regular follow-ups are key to a smooth menopausal transition.