Fibroids in Black Women: Symptoms, Treatment Options and Natural Support

Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths in or on the womb. They are very common, and research shows Black women get them more often, at a younger age and with more severe symptoms. Many women live with fibroids for years without knowing what is causing their heavy periods or pelvic discomfort. Here is what you need to know.

What are the symptoms of fibroids?

• Heavy or long periods, sometimes with clots
• Pelvic pressure, heaviness or a swollen lower belly
• Lower back pain
• Needing to urinate often, or constipation
• Pain during sex
• Tiredness and dizziness from blood loss (anaemia)

Some women have no symptoms at all, and their fibroids are found during a routine scan.

What causes fibroids?

The exact cause is unknown, but hormones (oestrogen and progesterone), genetics and family history all play a role. Low vitamin D levels, being overweight and a diet high in red meat have also been linked to a higher risk.

Fibroids and ovarian cysts: what’s the difference?

Fibroids grow from the muscle of the womb. Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs on the ovaries. Most ovarian cysts are harmless and go away on their own, but both conditions should be diagnosed with an ultrasound.

How are fibroids treated?

Treatment depends on your symptoms, the size of your fibroids and whether you want children. Options include:

• Watchful waiting if symptoms are mild
• Medication to reduce bleeding and pain
• Procedures such as removing the fibroids (myomectomy) or blocking their blood supply
• Surgery to remove the womb, for severe cases

Fibroids should be checked by a doctor or gynaecologist. Public clinics can refer you for a scan.

Natural ways to support your body

• Eat more vegetables, fruit and fibre, and less red and processed meat
• Get your vitamin D checked, and spend a little time in the sun
• Eat iron-rich foods like spinach, beans and liver if your periods are heavy
• Stay active and aim for a healthy weight
• Limit alcohol

Can herbal tonics help with fibroids?

Many South African women include traditional herbal tonics in their wellness routine. Our Imvelo Fibroids & Cysts Herbal Tonic blends ginger root, green tea, milk thistle, burdock root, dandelion root and arjuna to support uterine health and pelvic comfort. Herbal tonics have not been proven to shrink fibroids. Use them alongside your medical care, not instead of it.

When to see a doctor urgently

• Bleeding that soaks a pad every hour
• Severe pelvic pain
• Feeling faint, breathless or very tired
• Bleeding after menopause

We deliver across South Africa, with free delivery on orders over R600.

This article is general information, not medical advice. Herbal products are not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment by a registered health professional. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist first if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or take chronic medication.