In a detailed social media post, Nyong'o revealed that she underwent surgery to remove 30 fibroids, describing the experience as both physically and emotionally challenging. Despite the procedure, doctors informed her that there was little she could do to prevent the fibroids from returning.
'When we reach puberty, we are taught that periods mean pain, and that pain is simply a part of being a woman,' Nyong'o wrote. 'We must reject the normalisation of female pain.'
Uterine fibroids are benign tumours that grow in or around the uterus. While non-cancerous, they can lead to heavy menstrual bleeding, anaemia, pelvic pain, frequent urination, and complications during pregnancy.
The condition affects an estimated 70% of white women and up to 90% of Black women by the age of 50, according to the National Institutes of Health.
Nyong'o's announcement sheds light on what she describes as a widespread but underdiscussed health issue.
'We are struggling alone with something that affects most of us,' she stated, urging more open conversations and better access to care.
The Kenyan-Mexican actress, best known for her Oscar-winning performance in 12 Years a Slave, is now leveraging her public platform to advocate for policy change. She recently joined U.S. lawmakers in Washington, D.C., to support a package of congressional bills aimed at expanding research, improving early diagnosis, and funding less invasive treatment options for uterine fibroids.
In addition to legislative efforts, Nyong'o announced plans to launch a Uterine Fibroid Research Grant to help develop innovative treatments and improve the quality of life for the estimated 15 million women living with the condition in the U.S.
Her advocacy aligns with a growing movement to address racial disparities in women's healthcare. Studies have shown that Black women not only develop fibroids at younger ages but often suffer more severe symptoms and face longer delays in diagnosis and treatment.
Nyong'o said it wasn't until she began sharing her experience privately that she realised how widespread the issue was.
'No more suffering in silence,' she declared.
Rania Umutoni
