Common Conditions

The Unique Impact on Black Women

Research indicates that Black women are disproportionately affected by uterine health conditions such as cancer, PCOS, fibroids, and endometriosis. From research, we know:

  • According to a study published in JAMA Oncology, Black women are not only more likely to be diagnosed with uterine cancer, they are more than twice as likely to die from it than other racial and ethnic groups.

  • A study from the National Library of Medicine found that Black women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have an increased risk of metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease than white women. 

  • According to Mayo Clinic, Black women in the U.S. are up to three times more likely than white women to develop uterine fibroids.  

  • Black women are statistically less likely to be diagnosed with endometriosis, but are diagnosed on average 2.6 years later. Black women are often misdiagnosed and are less likely to receive endometriosis surgery, and if they do, they are more likely to have complications, longer surgery times, and hospital readmission.

Defining Common Conditions

How do they show up?

  • Uterine Cancer

    Uterine cancer, also known as endometrial or womb cancer, is a malignant tumor that forms in the tissues of the uterus, the small, pear-shaped organ in a woman's pelvis where a fetus develops. It is the most common cancer of the female reproductive system.

    Symptoms of uterine cancer include:

    Bleeding between periods

    Heavier or longer periods than usual

    Bleeding after menopause

    Spotting

    Pelvic pain or pressure

    Pain during intercourse

    Unusual vaginal discharge

    Unexplained weight loss

    Fatigue
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  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

    Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common condition among women of reproductive age that affects your hormones. It is often marked by ovaries covered with cysts (fluid-filled sacs with immature eggs). It can cause irregular menstrual periods, excess hair growth, acne, and infertility.

    Symptoms of PCOS include:

    Irregular periods

    Abnormal body hair growth

    Acne

    Obesity

    Darkening of the skin

    Skin tags

    Thinning hair

    Infertility

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  • Fibroids

    Uterine fibroids are common growths of the uterus. They often appear during reproductive years. They are also called leiomyomas or myomas. Fibroids vary in number and size, and you can have a single fibroid or more than one. Symptoms are sometimes not detectable.

    Symptoms of fibroids include:

    Heavy menstrual bleeding or painful periods

    Longer or more frequent periods.

    Pelvic pressure or pain

    Frequent urination or trouble urinating

    Growing stomach area

    Constipation

    Pain in the stomach area or lower back, or pain during sex

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  • Endometriosis

    Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of the uterus. This extra tissue can attach to other organs, such as the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and intestines.

    Symptoms of endometriosis include:

    Pelvic pain

    Painful periods

    Pain during or after sex

    Infertility

    Fatigue

    Heavy bleeding

    Painful bowel movements or urination

    Lower back pain

    Learn More