African American Women and Fibroids

African American women are at a higher risk of being diagnosed with fibroids than other races. Read on to find out what is being said and how to find out if you have fibroids too.

I heard that black women have a higher chance of getting fibroids, is that true?  If so, how can I find out if I have fibroids?

For black women, uterine fibroids can pose as quite a burden. They occur more often than in their white counterparts, develop sooner and grow larger. Estimates show that fibroids will bring on numerous complications in half of all black women by age 50, compared to 30% of white women. Although rare in most women under the age of 20, some women do experience symptoms.  Fibroids, however, are most common in women in their 30s and 40s, and tend to shrink after the menopause.  The reason as to why black women are more at risk for fibroids is unknown; additional research must be carried out to find this answer.

Uterine fibroids are growths that commonly develop in the uterus, many times without causing any symptoms that would make a woman aware that they are present. But for some, fibroids can cause discomfort and heavy vaginal bleeding. Further, some fibroids attached to the uterus by a stalk which can get twisted, causing pain and fever.

There are a number of symptoms that can point a woman in the direction of knowing that she has uterine fibroids.  If you notice any of these symptoms, be sure to bring them to the attention of your OB-GYN:

• Heavy periods—bleeding that lasts longer and is more frequent than what you’re used to seeing
• Bleeding between periods
• Pain in your back or abdomen
• Difficulty eliminating, either during urination or bowel movements
• Pain during sex—Fibroids that press on the cervix or hang through the cervix into the vagina can make penetrative sex painful and cause bleeding during sex

If you believe that you are experiencing any of these symptoms, we advise that you consult your OB-GYN.  You can also give the Fibroid Treatment Collective a call at 866-362-6463 or Contact Us Online.  We will be more than happy to answer any of your questions and/or help you find medical alternatives if you have been diagnosed with fibroids.

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African American Women and Fibroids