In the last month, I’ve been doing a lot of work on fibroids and all of the different areas of support that are available to women with this condition.
In my research, I was shocked to learn that fibroids occur in anywhere from 20-50% of women over 30, depending on the country.
They are so common, yet I don’t see much discussion of fibroids in the mainstream or health press.
Despite how common uterine fibroids are, especially in women of African / Afro-Caribbean origin, it’s quite uncommon to see any discussion of them, in the same way as PCOS or endometriosis.
So let’s talk about them now!
According to the NHS, fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus. The growths are made up of muscle and fibrous tissue and vary in size. They’re sometimes known as uterine myomas or leiomyomas.
Fibroids can start off being asymptomatic, meaning you could have them and not realise it.
Then you might find that you have a heavier menstrual flow, more painful periods, more urgency to urinate, a bloated or swollen tummy or pain during sex.
Your GP will likely do a physical examination and then can refer you for an ultrasound to identify the number, size and location of the fibroids.
Once you’ve been diagnosed, there are quite a few options available to help manage the fibroids, including with diet, movement and body work.
Do you have fibroids? Are you looking for more support and guidance on how to manage them? Get in touch with a free 30 minute fibroid and hormone health review to understand how you can improve your health and wellbeing.
Photo by Autumn Goodman
