Breaking the Silence: The Hidden Emotional Burden of Fibroids
By: Kiara Burroughs
When we talk about the effects of fibroids, we usually focus on the physical challenges. The pain, the heavy periods, and the surgeries often take center stage because they’re so visible—both to patients and the people around them. From missing social events due to painful symptoms to taking time off work for treatment, the physical toll is undeniable and hard to ignore. But what about the emotional and mental impact? Unlike the physical effects, this side of the journey is often hidden. Anxiety, depression, and stress that come with living with fibroids don’t show up as missed birthday parties or ruined clothes, but they’re still there. And, in many cases, these emotional struggles can linger long after the physical symptoms are addressed.
If you’ve been feeling down or overwhelmed since your diagnosis, you’re not alone. Research backs up what so many fibroid patients experience. A study by The White Dress Project showed higher rates of depression and anxiety among those living with fibroids. In a 2020 Johns Hopkins study, women reported struggling with:
Self-image and depression
A lack of control over their condition
Feelings of worry, fear, insecurity, and helplessness
The study also found that many women avoid social activities because they’re afraid of unexpected bleeding. This emotional burden is real, even though it might not always be visible to others. While improving mental health won’t erase the challenges of living with fibroids, it’s an important step in managing them. Here are a few tools to help with the emotional side of this journey.
1) Try Therapy or Counseling
Talking to a therapist can make a big difference in how you cope with fibroids. A professional can help you work through your worries, create coping strategies, and support you as you navigate your journey. If you’re not sure where to start, check out resources like Psychology Today, TalkSpace, BetterHelp, or TherapyTribe. These platforms can help you find licensed therapists in your area or connect you to online therapy options.
2) Find a Community of Support
Living with fibroids can feel isolating, but the truth is, you’re far from alone. By age 50, up to 90% of Black women and 70% of white women will be diagnosed with fibroids. Even though not everyone has symptoms or needs treatment, many women share similar experiences. Connecting with others who understand what you’re going through can help. Consider attending events hosted by The White Dress Project or joining a support group—either locally or online—for people with uterine health conditions. Sharing your journey with a community of fibroid warriors can provide encouragement and reassurance.
3) Practice Mindfulness
According to Mindful.org, “Mindfulness is the basic human ability to be fully present, aware of where we are and what we’re doing, and not overly reactive or overwhelmed by what’s going on around us.” Mindfulness can help reduce stress and anxiety by bringing you back to the present moment. It’s all about being aware of where you are and what you’re doing, without letting overwhelming thoughts take over. One easy way to practice mindfulness is through Box Breathing:
1. Inhale deeply for 4 seconds.
2. Hold your breath for 4 seconds.
3. Exhale slowly for 4 seconds.
4. Hold your breath again for 4 seconds.
Repeat this for a few minutes whenever you’re feeling stressed. Starting with short mindfulness exercises like this can help you feel calmer and more in control, even during tough moments.
4) Learn About Medical Trauma and Its Effects
Many people don’t realize that managing a condition like fibroids can lead to medical trauma. According to the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, medical trauma can come from stressful healthcare experiences, such as surgeries, difficult diagnoses, or interactions with providers. Living with fibroids can feel overwhelming—not just physically, but emotionally too. Challenges with doctors, fear of procedures, and the ongoing stress of symptoms can add to the trauma. To address this, try having open and honest conversations with your healthcare providers. This will allow you to advocate for yourself can help you feel more in control. Consider talking to a therapist who understands medical trauma and can help you navigate this along with your fibroid journey. Try reading resources like *The Body Keeps the Score* by Bessel van der Kolk, which explores how trauma affects the mind and body and equips you with tools to overcome.
There’s no quick fix for the emotional and mental toll of living with fibroids. It’s a unique journey for everyone, and it’s okay if you’re still figuring it out. If you’ve recognized yourself in anything mentioned here, remember that you’re not alone. Take small steps to prioritize your mental health—whether it’s therapy, joining a support group, or starting mindfulness practices. You’ve got this, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Wishing you strength and healing on your fibroid journey.
Sources:
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/news/newsroom/news-releases/2020/12/research-story-tip-uterine-fibroids-can-take-a-heavy-emotional-toll-on-women-study-shows
https://www.mindful.org/what-is-mindfulness/
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/box-breathing-benefits
