Menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) is not given specifically for uterine fibroids.
These are medications prescribed for fibroids:
- Gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists (Gn_RH): blocks estrogen and progesterone production to prevent fibroids from growing
- Progestin-releasing IUD: relieves heavy bleeding, but doesn’t make them go away
- Tranexamic acid: slows blood clot breakdown and reduces bleeding caused by fibroids
- NSAIDS: pain-relievers
Fibroids are also treated by surgical interventions. Otherwise, they can become smaller without intervention as the years go by.
MHT or HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy) eases menopausal symptoms by putting back small amounts of estrogen and progesterone in the body. It does the opposite of what Gn_RH does, so it is not recommended for controlling fibroids.
Fibroids are known to grow when there are copious amounts of estrogen. Estrogen subsides naturally during menopause, but MHT/HRT can cause it to surge temporarily. This is especially the case when the medication remains in the body longer than it should.
MHT gets metabolized in the liver. Liver problems can prevent the hormone from being eliminated. This can activate fibroids, especially when too much is taken. However, this won’t be a problem among women who don’t have metabolic problems.
It is important to take the right doses of MHT and at the right frequencies. Also, it is best to stick to one route of medication to prevent overdose. If you have already taken MHT orally, you shouldn’t use a transdermal patch unless the doctor tells you to.
MHT involves less-than-normal amounts of estrogen – just enough to prevent menopausal symptoms. Experts say that the estrogen in MHT is not sufficient to trigger an outbreak of fibroids. However, in some studies, pre-existing fibroids were seen to grow larger when MHT is given. Thankfully, the fibroids gradually disappear after a few years whether MHT is continued or not.
Although MHT is not usually contraindicated among women with fibroids, it may be discontinued when unpleasant symptoms are experienced. The fibroids may be removed or starved of estrogen.
The doctor can check whether you have a high estrogen level by getting a sample of urine or blood and letting a lab technician check it. If it is high, he/she may discontinue MHT. He will also find out what else may be causing the increase of estrogen. You may be asked to list other medications and substances you are taking.
Being fat may also contribute to high levels of estrogen. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology states that estrogens are elevated among the obese, and losing weight lowers estrogen level in the blood. Thus, if you are overweight, your doctor may include weight loss measures for treating your uterine fibroids.
In Conclusion
MHT does not work for uterine fibroids. It is not designed for treating them. There is a slight chance of fibroids getting bigger if MHT is taken, so you may be prohibited in taking MHT if your body can’t metabolize it properly. There are other hormone-based treatments for fibroids such as Gn_RH agonists. Ask your doctor if this is more appropriate for you.
Share this:
