Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths in the uterus. Black women are disporportionately impacted are two to three times more likely to develop them compared to white women. Black women also tend to develop fibroids at younger ages—often in their 20s and 30s—and their fibroids are typically larger and more numerous, leading to more severe symptoms. Perhaps most concerning, studies show that Black women often experience delays in diagnosis and treatment, with their pain and concerns frequently minimized or dismissed by healthcare providers. This disparity in care means many Black women endure debilitating symptoms longer before receiving appropriate treatment.

The most common symptom of fibroids is heavy menstrual bleeding—periods lasting longer than seven days, bleeding that soaks through protection every hour, or bleeding between periods. Women may also experience pelvic pressure or pain, frequent urination, difficulty emptying the bladder, constipation, backache, leg pain, and discomfort during sex. Some notice their abdomen becoming enlarged or feeling hard as fibroids grow. 

While researchers are still working to understand why Black women face higher fibroid rates, several factors likely contribute. Genetic predisposition plays a significant role, with certain genetic variations more common in Black women and family history increasing risk. Environmental factors may also contribute, including stress exposure, vitamin D deficiency (more common in Black women due to reduced vitamin D production from sun exposure), earlier onset of menstruation, and higher rates of high blood pressure in the Black community.

If you’re experiencing potential fibroid symptoms, don’t wait to seek care or accept dismissive responses from healthcare providers. Keep detailed records of your menstrual cycles and symptoms, noting their impact on daily life—be specific about changing protection hourly or missing work due to bleeding rather than simply saying periods are “heavy.” Effective treatments exist, ranging from medications to minimally invasive procedures that preserve the uterus, and newer options like uterine fibroid embolization offer alternatives to surgery. Don’t hesitate to seek second opinions or specialist referrals if your concerns aren’t taken seriously.