What You Don't Know About Fibroids: Why Black Women Are Disproportionately Affected
Did you know that up to 80% of women will develop fibroids by age 50?
Despite how common they are, fibroids remain one of the least talked-about women's health conditions. Many women suffer in silence, believing painful periods, heavy bleeding, and debilitating cramps are simply part of being a woman.
They're not.
In this episode of Curated Clinical, Dr. Allison Mathews sits down with Dr. Crystal Taylor (Dr. KT), founder of Odd Duck Science, to break down the science of fibroids, explore why Black women are disproportionately affected, and discuss practical steps women can take to advocate for their health.
What Are Fibroids?
Fibroids are non-cancerous tumors that grow in or around the uterus.
The word "tumor" often sounds frightening, but fibroids are not cancer.
However, they can significantly impact a woman's quality of life.
Common symptoms include:
Heavy menstrual bleeding
Severe cramping
Back pain
Frequent urination
Pain during sex
Infertility challenges
Pelvic pressure or fullness
Some women experience no symptoms at all, while others find that fibroids interfere with their daily activities, work, relationships, and reproductive health.
When Pain Isn't Normal
One of the most important messages from the conversation is that many women have been taught to normalize pain.
For generations, women were told:
"That's just part of being a woman."
"Everyone has painful periods."
"You just have to deal with it."
But severe pain, excessive bleeding, and symptoms that disrupt your life should never be ignored.
Your menstrual cycle provides important information about your overall health.
As Dr. Mathews explains, your period can act as a vital sign, offering clues about hormonal balance, stress levels, nutrition, and underlying health conditions.
Learning what is normal for your body is one of the first steps toward self-advocacy.
Why Are Fibroids More Common in Black Women?
Research consistently shows that Black women are more likely to develop fibroids and often experience more severe symptoms.
Some studies suggest:
Black women are diagnosed with fibroids approximately three times more often than White women.
By age 35, approximately 60% of Black women will have fibroids.
Black women are more likely to experience larger fibroids, more severe symptoms, and earlier diagnoses.
While researchers continue studying the exact causes, several factors may contribute to these disparities.
The Hidden Role of Stress
One surprising factor discussed in the episode is chronic stress.
Stress affects far more than our emotions.
It affects our hormones, immune systems, inflammation levels, and overall health.
Research has found links between chronic stress and elevated estrogen levels, which may contribute to fibroid development.
For many Black women, stress can include:
Workplace discrimination
Financial pressures
Caregiving responsibilities
Racial discrimination
Environmental stressors
The body doesn't simply forget these experiences.
Over time, chronic stress can create biological changes that affect reproductive health.
Environmental Exposures Matter
Dr. Taylor's expertise in toxicology brings another important issue to the forefront: environmental health.
Many everyday products contain chemicals known as endocrine disruptors.
These chemicals can interfere with hormones and potentially influence reproductive health.
Examples include:
Chemical Hair Relaxers
Research has raised concerns about potential links between chemical hair relaxers and reproductive health conditions, including fibroids.
While researchers continue studying these associations, the evidence highlights the importance of understanding what ingredients are in the products we use.
Plastics and "Forever Chemicals"
Many plastic products contain compounds such as phthalates and other chemicals that may disrupt hormone function.
These chemicals can be found in:
Plastic water bottles
Food containers
Packaging materials
Personal care products
Reducing exposure where possible may be one way to support overall reproductive health.
Small Changes Can Make a Big Difference
The conversation emphasizes progress, not perfection.
No one can eliminate every environmental exposure overnight.
Instead, consider small, manageable steps:
✔ Use reusable stainless steel or glass water bottles
✔ Avoid heating food in plastic containers
✔ Store food in glass when possible
✔ Choose fragrance-free products
✔ Read ingredient labels
✔ Use trusted resources to evaluate product safety
✔ Increase fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet
Each small change can contribute to a healthier environment for your body.
Why Clinical Trials Matter
One reason Curated Clinical exists is to increase awareness about the importance of representation in research.
Black women have historically been underrepresented in clinical research, despite often carrying a disproportionate burden of certain health conditions.
When Black women participate in research and help shape research priorities, scientists gain better insights into:
Risk factors
Treatment options
Prevention strategies
Health outcomes
Representation helps ensure that future treatments work for the communities most affected.
Be Your Own Health Advocate
Perhaps the most important takeaway from this episode is the importance of advocacy.
Ask questions.
Seek second opinions.
Track your symptoms.
Research your options.
And remember that treatment is not always one-size-fits-all.
While hysterectomy may be appropriate for some women, other treatment options may exist depending on individual circumstances.
The more informed you are, the better equipped you are to make decisions about your health.
The Bottom Line
Fibroids affect millions of women, but they do not have to define your life.
Understanding your body, recognizing symptoms, reducing environmental exposures, managing stress, and advocating for yourself can make a meaningful difference.
Most importantly, remember that your pain deserves attention.
Your concerns deserve answers.
And your health deserves investment.
Watch the full Curated Clinical conversation with Dr. Crystal Taylor to learn more about fibroids, women's health, environmental justice, and how to become a stronger advocate for your own care.