Fibroids and Fertility

What You Should Know

Ask any group of Black women, and chances are, someone has a fibroid story—maybe more than one. Some don’t even know they have them until they’re trying to conceive. Others have known for years and learned to push through the pain because “that’s just how our cycles are.”

But it doesn’t have to be that way. Understanding fibroids is part of understanding ourselves—and making care decisions that center our needs, not dismiss them.

Fibroids are non-cancerous growths that form in the uterus. They’re common—but in Black women, they tend to appear earlier, grow larger, and occur more often than in other groups. Research shows up to 80% of Black women may develop fibroids by age 50 (Laughlin-Tommaso et al., 2017).

For many women, fibroids cause no issues. But for some—especially those trying to conceive—they can interfere. Here’s what you should know:

How Fibroids May Affect Fertility

  • Block the fallopian tubes, preventing sperm from meeting the egg
  • Distort the shape of the uterus, making it harder for an embryo to implant
  • Increase the risk of miscarriage or early delivery

Sources: Pritts et al., 2009; Stewart, 2015

Not every fibroid will cause fertility issues. It depends on their size, number, and location in the uterus.

Signs You May Have Fibroids

  • Heavy or long menstrual periods
  • Pelvic pain or pressure
  • Frequent urination
  • Painful intercourse

If you notice any of these symptoms, talk to your provider. A pelvic exam or ultrasound can confirm what’s going on.

Treatment & Hope

Having fibroids doesn’t mean you can’t have children. Many women with fibroids go on to have healthy pregnancies. Treatment options include:

  • Medication to shrink fibroids or manage symptoms
  • Myomectomy — a surgical procedure to remove fibroids while preserving the uterus
  • Lifestyle support such as stress reduction, anti-inflammatory foods, and physical activity

Sources: NIH, 2023; Frontiers in Pharmacology, 2022

Your provider can help you choose what’s best for your family-building plans. There is no one-size-fits-all solution—and that’s okay.

The Bottom Line: Through Our Lens

You are not alone. Fibroids are common, manageable, and treatable—with care that sees the whole you. If you’re trying to conceive and have questions, talk to a provider who listens. You deserve answers. You deserve options. And you deserve support that honors your story—without delay, without shame.

This article is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.

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