Suffering from fibroids? Bookmark this resource list

Why are black women more likely to have fibroids​, and what are the implications?

While we know that infertility affects all races, genders and backgrounds, some races have shown higher rates of infertility paired with a lower likelihood of seeking or accessing fertility treatment.

Research has shown that black, indigenous and women of color experience infertility at higher rates than their white counterparts. More specifically, black women have a greater lifetime incidence of fibroids and are three times more likely than white women to have uterine fibroids.

This year’s theme for Black History Month is Black Health and Wellness and it is an important opportunity to highlight the reproductive health disparities and risks that exist in the black community.

Despite higher rates of infertility, African American women are less likely to seek fertility treatment when trying to conceive. While specific reasons vary from person to person, research has speculated why those affected by infertility delay seeking fertility treatment or don’t seek it at all.

It could be due to the assumption that black women are hyper-fertile, less willing to share private pregnancy struggles, less trusting of medical providers, don’t have access to insurance coverage for treatment and more.

As a black-owned fertility practice, Laurel Fertility Care strives to help raise awareness about reproductive health in these communities.

What are fibroids?

Fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop around the uterus. These growths are made up of muscle and tissue and can vary in size.

The exact cause of fibroids is unknown, but they have been linked to the hormone estrogen.

What are the symptoms?

Whilst many women are unaware they have fibroids because they experience no symptoms, other women will seek treatment for symptoms including:

• heavy or painful periods
• bloating
• back pain
• abdominal pain
• frequent need to urinate
• pain or discomfort during sex
• constipation
• infertility resulting from (rare) fibroid complications

The symptoms can cause stress and have a significant impact on one’s quality of life if left untreated – uterine fibroids have a disproportionate impact on African-American women.

What support is available for women with fibroids?

There are nonprofits and other organizations focused solely on helping women with fibroids connect with healthcare providers and fostering a community of support. We encourage you to take advantage of the resources these communities can provide— wellness tips, insurance information, treatment options… to name a few of the benefits of a fibroid support community.

If you are seeking fertility treatment or experiencing infertility, it’s not uncommon to feel stressed, anxious or overwhelmed. Looking after your mental health is important when trying to conceive and can help to prepare for any challenges that might lie ahead. Finding and leaning on a community for support can also make a significant impact on your journey. Support groups can open your eyes to new options, help you cope with difficult emotions during fertility struggles and create lasting connections.

We’ve put together a list of some of our favorite Instagram accounts, podcasts, communities and resources for black women and people that were created by black women to help guide and comfort you on this journey.

Fibroid support groups and communities

• Hannah’s Daughters
• Sisters In Loss
• Mind Your Own Womb
• The Fibroid Pandemic
• The Broken Brown Egg
• Black LGBTQ Moms

Nonprofits and financial assistance for women with fibroids

• The Tinina Q. Cade Foundation
• We Can Wear White
• Filling Empty Wombs

Fibroid education and awareness

• Kellee Stewart’s Warrior Wednesdays 
• Eggs Over Easy: Black Women and Infertility Documentary
• Fertility For Colored Girls
• Black Mamas Matter Alliance
• The Game of Life by Dacìa Lewis

Licensed therapists and financial assistance for women with fribroids

• Shivonne Odom, Akoma Counseling
• Dr. Loree Johnson