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 no direct link between fibroids and hormonal imbalance (so they say), baby, something is off.

First, for anyone new to the conversation, uterine fibroids—also known as leiomyomas or myomas—are noncancerous growths of the uterus that often appear during childbearing years. They can vary in size, number, and location, and while some people have no symptoms, others experience heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, and more. Click here for more on fibroids from the Mayo Clinic.

Years ago, my gynecologist diagnosed me with a single fibroid sitting on the outside of my uterus—no more than 2 centimeters, about the size of a blueberry. Cute, right?

Fast forward to 2023: I went in for a check-up because my menstrual cycle had started shifting. And whew chile—that one fibroid had multiplied into five!

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

“If you’re ever told you have a fibroid, multiply that number by 2 or 3.”

So… if I have 5 confirmed fibroids, I could 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.

Since 2021, I’ve been using a menstrual cup, and let me just say—it’s one of the best products on the market. It lessens my cramping and makes my period end a full day earlier. It’s reusable, cost-effective, and gives me peace of mind for up to 12 hours. But even with the cup, these fibroids are showing out.

My cycle lately? Whew. Day one, I’m dumping the cup every couple of hours—heavy is an understatement. By day three, it’s back to normal. But the first 24 hours? A crime scene.

Add to that—my skin is in shambles. My cheeks and chin have been breaking out like never before. Thankfully, I found a new esthetician, Ciara at Ciaradise, and she’s a gem. She suggested that my acne might be hormone-related based on where it’s popping up. I’ve got an appointment soon to get my hormone levels checked, but I’m already on top of it with supplements:

• Iron + Vitamin C (help absorbs Iron)

• Vitamin D + Magnesium (help absorbs Vitamin D)

• DIM

  
  

Why? Because I want flawless skin at all times. I’m too vain for acne. Period.

At this point, I’ve been bleeding since I was 10 years old. I’m tired. After I have a baby, I’m manifesting a partial hysterectomy. I’m over this uterine drama. Let’s wrap it up!

Your Turn:Have you been checked for fibroids? Noticed any shifts in your menstrual cycle, skin, or even vaginal dryness? If so, please—talk to your doctor. Advocate for your body, your health, and your peace.

Until Next Time,

The Vagina Liberator