This month is Fibroid Awareness Month and it is important to find out if you are one of the 26 million women in America who have them. Fibroids are non-cancerous growths that typically grow inside and outside of the uterus. If they’re not treated early, they usually continue to grow, and you’re more likely to have noticeable symptoms. Unfortunately, for some people, doing the tests that help diagnose the condition is an obstacle to getting treatment. If that’s you, then you should take advantage of the free fibroid screenings that are available.
“Millions of women suffer in silence, believing their symptoms are normal,” Dr. Yan Katsnelson, Founder and CEO of USA Fibroid Centers, says. “An early symptom check can change everything, pointing patients toward life-changing, non-surgical options like UFE.”
According to the USA Fibroid Centers, approximately 26 million women in America between the ages of 15 and 50 have uterine fibroids. Some grow steadily until menopause, while others stay the same size for years.
The most common uterine fibroid signs and symptoms include:
While some clinics offer free fibroid screenings throughout the year, you’re more likely to find more during July because it’s Fibroid Awareness Month. Some places will also specifically seek out minorities, as they may not get checked as regularly as other ethnicities. The best place to start is to check your local clinics and hospitals so you can schedule your screening as soon as possible.
The details of a free screening can differ from one place to another, so it’s important to confirm what to expect before the screening. At a minimum, there will be a physical exam where the doctor will check your pelvic area for anomalies after discussing your medical history. Generally, this exam will include pressing on the stomach while their gloved fingers are inside the vagina. Some places also offer an ultrasound during a free screening. Ultrasounds are imperative for confirming the presence of fibroids as well as their location, size, and type. However, depending on the types of fibroids you have, a doctor can determine that they’re there from the pelvic exam alone.
“Free screenings are a critical first step in closing that awareness gap,” Dr. Jacob White, Interventional Radiologist and Medical Director at USA Fibroid Centers, says. “Too many women delay care because they don’t recognize their symptoms. By making screenings accessible, we can identify fibroids earlier and help patients take control of their health sooner.”
RELATED: Is It Fibroids? 5 Uncommon Symptoms Black Women Should Keep An Eye On
If you don’t have symptoms of fibroids and your physical exam doesn’t suggest that you have the condition, the doctor will likely suggest you get screened again in a few years. If you have symptoms of fibroids but the doctor didn’t find any abnormalities during a physical exam, they may suggest further testing. Some people need an ultrasound or MRI to accurately determine the presence of fibroids because the growths aren’t in a location or aren’t large enough to be detected in a physical exam.
People who have symptoms and signs of pelvic abnormalities will usually be referred to a doctor to explore treatment. You may opt to stick with the doctor who does the test or go to your regular doctor. In either case, you will need confirmation through an ultrasound or MRI. Depending on your symptoms and the results of the imaging tests, your doctor will discuss treatment options. Most doctors will choose to start medication to manage the symptoms unless the fibroids are affecting your quality of life. In that case, you can explore medication that can shrink the fibroids or surgical procedures to remove them.
RELATED: Fibroids: What Every Black Woman Should Know
Studies show that Black Americans are up to three times more likely to develop fibroids than other ethnicities. While others generally have fibroids later in life, some Black people can develop the condition as early as 25. Interestingly, even with having symptoms, they may not get an accurate diagnosis for years after seeing a doctor for the first time. Though doctors aren’t sure why, some Black Americans’ symptoms progress more quickly and can result in needing emergency care because they’re not aware of having fibroids. Additionally, a lot of Black people don’t get checked for fibroids and don’t see a doctor until the illness has gotten to a level that needs immediate medical intervention. This usually results in more Black Americans having invasive surgical procedures such as hysterectomies instead of exploring other possible treatment options.
Given their increased risk of developing fibroids, it’s important for Black people to get screened regularly. An early diagnosis can lead to early treatment where you can explore all your options. Prepare for your doctor’s visit with these questions.
Several health organizations offer free fibroid screenings. While it’s good for anyone to schedule an appointment, Black woman should especially get screened so they know their status. It’s easier to manage the condition when you get an early diagnosis.
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