Uterine fibroids are common. Most women will have at least one fibroid at some point, but Black women have the highest rate.


7 out of 10 white women and 8 out of 10 Black women have fibroids by age 50.


There can be just one fibroid or many, and they vary in size:


Small: Up to the size of a cherry

Medium: Up to size of an orange

Large: Up to size of a grapefruit (or larger)


About 1 in 5 women with fibroids have symptoms.


Some fibroids cause no symptoms but others can severely affect a woman’s quality of life.


Ways fibroid symptoms can affect you


Fibroids affect more than just your blood flow. They can make periods heavier, longer and more frequent, which can cramp your lifestyle.


Finances


Fibroids can be expensive when you have to pay for


Pads

Tampons

Underwear

Cleaning supplies for leaks

Visits with healthcare providers

Treatments

Relationships/Social Life


If you’re in pain or bleeding heavily, it may affect your relationships


You may not feel fun to be around

Choosing what to wear may cause stress

Physical intimacy may feel challenging

Work


Having fibroids at work poses challenges


It can be stressful if you can’t get to the bathroom when you need it

Uniforms may not hide leaks

Severe cramping may make it hard to concentrate

Fear of losing your job because of absences can cause anxiety

Mental health


Studies show that women with fibroids are more likely to have depression or anxiety .


Feeling out of control can affect mental health

Fear of going out while menstruating may result in social isolation

Fibroids can cause stress about infertility or pressure to have children sooner

Fibroid-related health problems


Although fibroids don’t always cause symptoms, they can cause physical problems. These include:


Blood clots

Blockage of the ureters

Infertility

Pregnancy complications

Severe anemia

If you’re having symptoms, you don’t have to try to simply power through. For more information on how to manage bleeding and treatment options, visit the White Dress Project