Fibroids are muscular growths that develop within the uterine wall. Although they are often non-cancerous, they can exist as solitary tumors or manifest in multiple masses within the uterus. These growths vary in size, ranging from as small as an apple seed to as large as a grapefruit.
Research says that 90% of Black and 70% of White women will be diagnosed with fibroids by the age of 50. However, it’s important to note that not all individuals will encounter symptoms or necessitate treatment.
In this fascinating chat, Adrianna is open and honest about her experiences, and how little she knew about her own body growing up. A lack of information meant that she had no idea about what was considered a ‘normal’ or ‘heavy’ period, or the symptoms that should have made her speak to her medical team.
Adrianna also shares her thoughts on digital health solutions and talks about the work she does with The White Dress Project, a non-profit organization that supports people managing life with fibroids.
Topics include:
Adrianna’s symptoms and the lack of education about her periods
Why your relationship with your doctor should be the same as the one you have with your hairstylist
How Adriana only became aware of fibroids when undergoing fertility treatment
Information about The White Dress Project and Adrianna’s involvement
The digital health apps that Adrianna has used
Time stamps
[00:02:10] Adriana’s fertility journey.
[00:06:08] Learning about her body.
[00:09:46] Normalizing conversations about periods.
[00:12:11] Importance of doctor-patient relationship.
[00:18:10] Myomectomy surgery and approach.
[00:19:19] Pain management options after surgery.
[00:25:03] Underfunding of women’s health.
[00:28:24] Lack of research on fibroids.
[00:31:08] Fibroid treatment options.
[00:34:17] Tracking menstrual cycles and fertility.
[00:38:02] Recovering from labor is difficult.
[00:42:20] Finding light in the darkness.
[00:46:57] Uterine fibroids and advocacy.
[00:48:51] Women’s digital health.
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Visit The White Dress Project and connect on Instagram
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Disclaimer
The information in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.
The personal views expressed by guests on Women’s Digital Health are their own and their inclusion here does not constitute an endorsement from Dr. Brandi, Women’s Digital Health, or associated organizations.