Black women are at a higher risk for uterine fibroids, and many are advocating for more nuanced care.
Many women with fibroids never notice anything amiss, but approximately 25% to 50% struggle with heavy menstrual bleeding, frequent urination, and pain, which can lead to depression, reproductive health issues, and lower work productivity. Omari's friends explained that there are an array of possible treatments, including medications and myomectomy, a surgery that removes fibroids and preserves the uterus.
That was the case for Omari. Luckily, thanks to her friends, she had an alternate view from her doctor's recommendation. A friend referred her to a"very respectful, thoughtful" surgeon who specialized in minimally invasive treatments. After explaining Omari's options for preserving her fertility, the surgeon removed her fibroids with"no complications."Patients often come in to Cannon's practice complaining about heavy bleeding and painful cramping.
While a hysterectomy may be the proper treatment for certain patients, the Food and Drug Administration recently approved Marsh hopes that doctors learn to listen more and take advantage of developments that broaden options, but she notes that change will be difficult without a concerted effort."I don't know of any specific requirement or specific programming that focuses on education about fibroids in women of African descent," she says.
advocates for women with fibroids and works to destigmatize the condition by providing educational and networking resources. Journalist Tanika Valbrun founded the nonprofit in 2015 after undergoing two myomectomies to remove 27 fibroids. Speaking out also encourages much-needed funding for medical research and public education, adds Valbrun. She is optimistic that Congress will take action soon on the, which would create new programs to disseminate information and collect data, as well as direct substantial additional resources to the National Institutes of Health.
"If I hadn't talked to that friend, I wouldn't have found my doctor," says Leake, who detailed the four-year-long saga in aCommenters chimed in with questions about their fibroids, and Leake learned that many women had similar stories to tell, often involving doctors pushing hysterectomies.Coochie Conversations
Alexandra Angrand-Robinson never wore white prior to her 2014 surgery to remove her fibroids. She was thrilled to be able to wear a white dress to her wedding in 2020.Demystifying fibroids and the available treatment options can also encourage women to seek out the care they need, says Alex Angrand-Robinson, 38. She had never learned much about the condition when she noticed her periods getting markedly longer right after college.