Menopause signals the start of a new life stage. During this new phase, risk of developing some gynecologic conditions drops as estrogen levels decline. However, new issues surface for similar reasons.
Menopausal and postmenopausal women are encouraged to continue preventive care through routine pelvic exams, pap tests, and breast exams. When women present with worrisome symptoms, a combination of physical exams, blood tests, and 3D ultrasound can help physicians arrive at an accurate diagnosis so they can recommend personalized treatment.
Here are three of the most common issues where 3D ultrasound provides valuable insight.
Precancerous Conditions and 3D Ultrasound
Some common perimenopausal and menopausal symptoms mimic those of gynecologic cancers. Bleeding between cycles, for example, in addition to frequent bleeding and/or heavy or prolonged bleeding in women over age 45 may be associated with uterine cancer. Bloating, nausea, and shortness of breath are a few symptoms which may be associated with ovarian cancer.
Hormone therapy, which is typically used to relieve menopausal symptoms, may increase the risk of some cancers. For example, in women who still have their uterus, taking estrogen alone may increase risk of endometrial cancer. Taking estrogen with progesterone is not associated with increased uterine cancer risk.
A pelvic exam, as well as 3D transvaginal ultrasound, is a first-line technique for identifying possible cancerous or precancerous lesions. Ultrasound also helps physicians rule out other conditions, such as endometriosis.
Irregular Bleeding and 3D Ultrasound
Irregular bleeding could indicate a number of conditions in menopausal and postmenopausal women. Use of hormone replacement therapy and age-related thinning and atrophy of the vagina are the two most common causes, but it's also a sign of endometrial cancer.
By providing detailed visualization of the uterine and pelvic structures, 3D ultrasound is an effective way for gynecologists to determine whether there's cause for concern. Based on initial findings, and any necessary additional testing, they can provide specific recommendations to address spotting and heavy bleeding.
Hyperplasia and 3D Ultrasound
Irregular bleeding is also a symptom of endometrial hyperplasia, a condition associated with abnormal tissue growth in the uterus. When estrogen levels remain high, without the balance of progesterone, it can cause an overgrowth of the uterine lining. While most cases resolve on their own or with progesterone treatment, there is a low risk of uterine cancer.
A transvaginal 3D ultrasound helps gynecologists assess the thickness and characteristics of the endometrium. A biopsy is used to determine whether cancer is present.
If the biopsy reveals precancerous changes in the uterine lining, the risk of developing cancer increases. Early detection and treatment is the optimal line of defense to prevent that outcome in menopausal and postmenopausal women.
Use Ultrasound as a Preventative Measure to Address Issues Proactively
Risk of developing certain gynecologic conditions drops in menopausal and postmenopausal women, but new issues may arise as estrogen and progesterone levels decline. Preventive care exams allow gynecologists to proactively address common issues in this growing population. When symptoms indicate necessity, further testing with 3D ultrasound can help guide physicians toward targeted treatment.
