Excuse my absence, I've been resting.
Overcoming the unpredictable nature of life during this pandemic.
Acknowledging that as a relatively healthy young Black women, some health challenges are inevitable.
The past 18 months, I have been experiencing heavier than usual periods (and bleeding in between my cycle), pelvic pain, an excessive need to urinate, bloating and exhaustion.
These symptoms were causing serious concern, so I booked my cervical screening, something I had been putting off due to past traumatic experiences.
Although my test results didn't show any serious abnormalities, I was referred for a colposcopy and a radiologist for a transvaginal ultrasound scan to see if there were any signs of fibroids or other issues that may impact my reproductive health.
The whole process was mentally and physically overwhelming. However, I needed to understand what was causing my symptoms, and more importantly, I wanted to rule out cervical cancer.
To my great relief, I was diagnosed with fibroids, apparently, the size of this "potentially benign" growth was so large that my gynecologist recommended surgery.
Instantly, my relief morphed into fear. In all my 35 years I'd never been admitted into hospital. Therefore, the thought of going under general anesthesia for a procedure, scared the sh** out of me.
I became anxious, so much so, that I was happy that my operation got postponed - to avoid putting myself (and others) at risk of catching Covid-19. As well as, ensuring that hospital resources, beds, and equipment were available to treat patients who are critically ill with the virus.
It was a four month wait, and during this time my symptoms didn't subside. In fact, they got worse, leaving me feeling helpless.
I leaned on my amazing Mother, Sisters and Partner for support and encouragement. I drew even closer to God. Putting my life and healing in His capable hands.
Don't get me wrong, I was nervous but I had faith.
Fast forward to this present day, I'm recovering from the surgery, and learned that I didn't have a fibroid but an endometrial polyp, that was successfully removed.
I'm extremely grateful to all the NHS practitioners who examined and treated me throughout this process.
I'm super relieved the polyp was extracted from my uterus; as polyps can be cancerous or can eventually turn into cancer (precancerous polyps) if untreated or surgically removed.
To say it has been a whirlwind of a journey would be an understatement. Still I survived, so I will use my platform to raise awareness on female reproductive health issues, particularly conditions that dispositionally affect Black women.
PS - I was nervous about sharing such intimate details about my health. However, I want to normalise women's reproductive health challenges.
Together, we need to eliminate the stigma many women face. 1 in 3 women have reproductive health issues and because of the Taboo they often suffer in silence, this needs to stop!
No one should be judged or alienated for conditions they have zero control over.
Hopefully, my post will reach women and girls who feel alone dealing with #pcos #fibroids #endometriosis #cervicalcancer and other reproductive health concerns. ❤️
Remain blessed and take care of yourselves
