According to the Mayo Clinic website:

“Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths of the uterus that often appear during childbearing years. Also called leiomyomas (lie-o-my-O-muhs) or myomas, uterine fibroids aren’t associated with an increased risk of uterine cancer and almost never develop into cancer”

Fibroids can arrange in size and go undetected in most women.  The most common symptoms of fibroids are: 

·         Heavy menstrual bleeding

·         Menstrual periods lasting more than a week

·         Pelvic pressure/pain

·         Increased urination

·         Difficulty emptying the bladder

·         Constipation

·         Backache or leg pains

Black women are more likely to develop fibroids than any other racial group.  Scientists haven’t really pinpointed the reason as to why this happens to black women. But research has shown that symptoms occur in black women at a younger age, our fibroids are much larger, and the symptoms are much more severe. 

One smart tool is to track your cycle and know what your normal is. Some women cycle last five days. Some seven days. And others three. Changes in your cycle will be indication that something could possibly be wrong.

Another smart tool is knowing your family history. Personally, my mother and grandmother both had total hysterectomy due to fibroids issues.

Knowing your body is your first line of defense when speaking to your health professional. Everything doesn’t always fit into the textbook way of things. Take time to read up on fibroids and know your family history. Also watch your diet.

More to come next week!

Happy Saturday!

Neikeita