Rufus R. Noble “More research is needed, but fibroid growth seems to be linked to prolonged exposure to estrogen, and African ancestry is considered a key risk factor for fibroid development,” says the board-certified obstetrician and gynecological surgeon and the founder of Lady Parts: a multimedia platform designed to simplify female health Dr. Stephanie Hack. “Environmental factors such as diet, history of abuse, exposure to stress, and vitamin D deficiency have also been linked to fibroid growth.”
Fibroids, also known as leiomyoma, are defined by the term “smooth muscle cells and connective tissue” that are commonly located in the uterus; however, they can also be found in other organs that produce reproductive hormones, like the fallopian tubes and ovaries, according to the doctor Dr. Hack. It can be accompanied by heavy and long periods, frequent spotting during menstrual cycles, discomfort in the abdomen and pelvic region, lower back pain, constipation, and, on rare occasions, infertility.
“They may be the sole cause of infertility in two to three percent of women,” the OBGYN describes. “Much of it is related to the location of fibroids which is caused by fibroids that expand into the uterine cavity also known as submucosal fibroid, being the primary cause. A lot of women get pregnant due to fibroids, only to be healthy and have healthy babies.”
Every patient’s experience with fibroids will appear different; however, when left untreated, these fibroids can grow bigger, trigger more intense symptoms, and cause pressure on various organs within the pelvic area. The good news is that many treatments can be tailored to the patient’s needs. There are multiple options, including hormone therapy that can reduce the size of the mass and the introduction of birth control medications, IUDs, and progesterone injections to minimize bleeding and discomfort. People can also choose other minimally invasive procedures, such as uterine artery embolization to cut off blood flow to the fibroids or undergo a hysteroscopic myomectomy, also known as abdominal myomectomy, which surgically removes the mass. A complete hysterectomy, in which the entire uterus gets removed is an alternative.
Some may want to add supplements or certain food items to their diets, too. A 2022 study published in Nutrients, an open-access scientific journal on human nutrition, discovered a strong connection between vitamin D deficiencies and uterine fibroid development. The results also revealed that a diet rich in vitamin A can help prevent or reduce fibroids’ growth, too. Further research has shown that those who consume at least four portions of vegetables or fruits daily are less likely to develop fibroids than those who eat only one serving simultaneously.
With this all being said, it is evident that coping in a uterine fibroid state as a woman of color, especially a Black woman, as well as trying to navigate a healthcare system that is discriminatory and navigating a system of discrimination, is never a straight and transparent way. Alongside the typical physical symptoms, there’s psychological stress and fatigue, as well as anxiety, a loss of enjoyment during sexual activities, the cost of treatment, and many other aspects that are frequently not considered.
The severity and effects of fibroids can differ in a wide range, so it’s crucial to consult your physician to discover the best treatment option. Hearing other people’s experiences can bring confidence and comfort, if only because it shows that you’re not alone. To get attention to the very frequent, yet under-appreciated, problem of fibroids in the uterus, Allure interviewed more than 30 Black women from all walks of life to learn more about what the journey truly like, as well as how this has impacted their ways of taking care of and advocate for themselves, as well as their bodies.
Bonita Jalane
I was diagnosed with uterine fibroids] in 2022 following a bout of nausea for a couple of months during my period. It also occurred to me that even though I was exercising every day and getting weight loss, I could not reduce my stomach size. Initially, I was in the hospital, and doctors told me they were unsure what was wrong. However, after the sonogram and a diagnosis, I was found to have. My OBGYN stated that the fibroids resembled an apple, and the other was a mango. One was also resting on my uterus. He also advised that if I decided to have children, I’d need to have my fibroids removed. So I decided to undergo surgery. It took six weeks for me to recover, and although there was a feeling of satisfaction, I was concerned about the scars that appeared when my skin became keloid. As the weeks pass, I’ve become content with how my body appears. I’m happy that the spots are part of my identity. It reminds me of the fact that I’m an enduring person. Every day, I take it as a part of my daily routine to cherish myself. One day, I’ll tell my child I sacrificed myself for them.
Meaghan Taylor
Before being diagnosed properly, I’d seen a variety of doctors in an attempt to understand the cause of my excessive menstrual bleeding as well as a gastric ulcer. One doctor finally requested a vaginal ultrasound and confirmed that I had fibroids. Before this, I was unsure what the term “fibroid” meant, so it was a frightening encounter involving frequent ER trips for blood transfusions and morphine to treat anemia and pain. The diagnosis helped me realize what was happening in my body and why I was suffering from breakouts and an expanding stomach. Also, fatigue, mood swings, and excessive bleeding. I’ve been through the process of having fibroids removed twice in 2018, once in 2018 and 2021. I’ll return within two weeks for an ultrasound to check whether they’ve recurred. Although the experience was challenging, it has made me more aware of the changes within my body, and I’ve adopted a holistic approach to treating it. Reducing stress levels is crucial, so even with all the stress, I try to concentrate on the positives and remember to be relaxed. I also believe a significant part of the healing process is creating a sense of community. Although fibroids are familiar, I was shocked to discover an abundance of information the medical community isn’t unaware of about fibroids. Black women must depend on one another. I’ve had conversations about this with my family, friends, and even my social media followers until the point where people seek me out to get help and support. This is a significant problem in our community, and I’m happy we’re beginning to engage in more discussions.
