Fibroids

By: Jay Dee, MPH

My Uterine Fibroids Have Been Kicking My Ass…

So here’s the tea: I’ve been battling some real chaos in my uterus lately. And while there’s allegedly no direct link between fibroids and hormonal imbalance (so they say), baby… something is definitely off.

First, for anyone new to the conversation—uterine fibroids (also called leiomyomas or myomas) are noncancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus, most often during the reproductive years. They can range in size from a seed to a melon, and can grow inside the uterine wall, on its surface, or within its cavity.

Some folks don’t have symptoms at all, while others deal with heavy menstrual bleeding, painful cramps, pelvic pressure, bloating, frequent urination, constipation, and even pain during sex. Oh, and let’s not forget fatigue—because when your uterus is out here running a blood donation center every month, your energy plummets.

(Click here for more info from the Mayo Clinic.)

Years ago, my gynecologist diagnosed me with a single fibroid sitting on the outside of my uterus—barely 2 centimeters. Cute, right? About the size of a blueberry. Tiny. Manageable.

Fast forward to 2023: I went in for a check-up because my cycle had started shifting—and whew chile, that “cute” little fibroid brought friends. Five of them, to be exact.

Now if you’ve been following me, you might remember I interviewed Dr. P, a board-certified OB/GYN affectionately known as The Fibroid Slayer. He said something that still lives rent-free in my head:

“If you’re ever told you have one fibroid, multiply that number by two or three.”

So if I’ve got five confirmed fibroids, I could realistically be hosting 10 to 15?! Shut. The. Front. Door. Somebody come get this uterus.

(If you haven’t seen the interview yet, click here—it’s a must-watch.)

Let me tell you—fibroids are greedy. They thrive off blood supply, which means the more blood they receive, the more they can grow. And guess where all that blood is coming from? Yep—you. That’s why people with fibroids often have heavier and longer periods, which can lead to iron-deficiency anemia and intense fatigue. It’s not just “being tired”—it’s dragging through your day, foggy, dizzy, and borderline collapsing by 3 PM. The math ain’t mathing when your body can’t keep up with your flow.

Since 2021, I’ve been using a menstrual cup—and let me just say, it’s been a game-changer. Less cramping, shorter periods, no leaks, no waste, and peace of mind for up to 12 hours. But even with the cup, these fibroids are showing out.

My cycle lately? Whew. Day one is brutal. I’m dumping the cup every couple of hours. “Heavy” doesn’t even cover it—it’s giving crime scene. By day three, things calm down, but that first 48 hours? Pure chaos.

And my skin? Girl. My cheeks and chin have been breaking out like they’re in protest. Thankfully, I found a new esthetician—Ciara at Ciaradise—and she’s been heaven-sent. Based on the location of the breakouts, she thinks it might be hormone-related.

I’ve got a hormone panel scheduled, but in the meantime, I’ve been loading up on supplements:

• Iron + Vitamin C (Vitamin C helps your body absorb iron)

• Vitamin D + Magnesium (Magnesium supports Vitamin D absorption and hormone balance)

• DIM (supports estrogen metabolism and hormonal regulation) limited research!

  
  

Why all this effort? Because I want flawless skin at all times and some energy during my period. I’m way too vain for hormonal acne.

At this point, I’ve been bleeding since I was 10 years old. I’m exhausted. After I have a baby, I’m absolutely planning for a partial hysterectomy. I’m done with the uterine drama. It’s been real, but it’s time to wrap it up.

Your Turn: Have you been checked for fibroids? Noticed any shifts in your menstrual cycle, energy levels, skin, or even vaginal dryness?

Don’t suffer in silence. Talk to your doctor. Advocate for your body, your health, and your peace.

Until Next Time,

The Vagina Liberator