Restoring Body Confidence After a Fibroid Diagnosis and Treatment

If you have been watching recent episodes of Love is Blind UK, then you have met Demi. On the show, Demi shared her struggles with endometriosis, the impact on her body image, and the difficulty in sharing this with her potential partner. Demi’s bravery in sharing her story brought to light some of the struggles that many women with reproductive health conditions, including fibroids, and the importance of speaking up about them. The fibroid patient’s experience can alter not only our physical, but mental perception of our bodies and overall self. The physical body changes that can result from fibroids can alter our confidence, what we wear, and how we believe others perceive us. For some patients, these feelings can linger long after fibroids are removed. Healing takes time, but it is possible. There are strategies that patients can use to help rebuild a positive body image during and after their fibroid journey. Here are a few to consider:

Practice Daily Self-Compassion

Replace your critical thoughts about your body with positive affirmations. Consistency and acceptance of these positive words are key. Remember that your body is overcoming a significant challenge, and its strength cannot be denied. This challenge is also one that most women will experience in their lifetimes [1]. You are not alone. Research indicates that practicing self-compassion can significantly improve body image by reducing negative thoughts about your appearance and promoting a more accepting and positive view of your body [2].

Seek Support

Daily affirmations and self-compassion practices are wonderful tools to help transform your view of your body, but they cannot replace the support of a licensed therapist if you are facing challenges. Psychology Today, Therapy for Black Girls, and your insurance provider directory are great places to start to find a provider that works for you. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has been shown to be effective in reducing body dissatisfaction and improving body image [3]. Further, finding community, like the one that we have at The White Dress Project, is invaluable for finding friends to support you on your healing journey.

Prioritize Physical Health

Studies have shown that exercise helps to improve body image [4]. It is important to follow the guidance of your healthcare provider and dietician when building out your physical health program. Listen to your body when it needs rest and pay attention to your physical limitations, particularly post-surgery. Celebrate each milestone you reach along the way. It is representative of your body’s resilience and your continued efforts show your perseverance.

Remember, healing body image takes time and patience. Whether you are moving through an endometriosis or fibroid journey or any other condition, be gentle with yourself and celebrate your progress, no matter how small. In time, you can rebuild a positive relationship with and fully celebrate your body.

Sources:

1. Eltoukhi HM, Modi MN, Weston M, Armstrong AY, Stewart EA. The health disparities of uterine fibroid tumors for African American women: a public health issue. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2014 Mar;210(3):194-9. doi: 10.1016/j.ajog.2013.08.008. Epub 2013 Aug 11. PMID: 23942040; PMCID: PMC3874080.

2. Braun TD, Park CL, Gorin A. Self-compassion, body image, and disordered eating: A review of the literature. Body Image. 2016 Jun;17:117-31. doi: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2016.03.003. Epub 2016 Mar 31. PMID: 27038782.

3. Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects (DARE): Quality-assessed Reviews [Internet]. York (UK): Centre for Reviews and Dissemination (UK); 1995-. The effectiveness of stand-alone cognitive-behavioural therapy for body image: a meta-analysis. 2005.

4. Hausenblas, H. A., & Fallon, E. A. (2006). Exercise and body image: A meta-analysis. Psychology & Health, 21(1), 33–47.