Danger in IGNORING a LARGE but ASYMPTOMATIC fibroid?

Hello again Dr. del Junco-

Thank you again for this wonderful site and for the important work that you are doing.

My question is this. I have a large (8.5 cm) fibroid that is giving me VERY minimal problems.

Is there any danger in just IGNORING it for the time being and waiting to see if it will decrease in size after menopause? I’m 48 so will probably be going through menopause soon anyway. However, as of now I continue to have VERY regular cycles (a fact which seemed to amaze my GYN and technicians who did the ultrasound, considering the size of my fibroid). I have no children and would still like to have a child if possible.

Thank you!
Ellyn

Dear Ellyn-
We do not recommend waiting for menopause..especially a larger tumor like yours. Your tumor probably will shrink some after menopause..how much is undeterminable, however ONLY if you remain OFF ALL forms of hormone replacement therapy. Any type both natural and synthetic will promote tumor growth.
We have also had women with breakthrough bleeding after menopause due to tumors…this is also concerning. Physicians usually end up recommending surgery..and the patient is now several years older than when originally diagnosed and the older age poses more of a danger to undergo a major surgery.
Do not wait.. have your tumor removed.