Episode 31

Fibroids and Maternal Health

September 11th, 2026

Summary

Uterine fibroids affect up to 80% of Black women and 70% of white women by age 50, yet their profound impact on fertility, pregnancy, and birth is far too often met with silence. In this deeply personal episode of Matrescence in Wellness, host Brittany shares her real-time experience navigating a 7-month pregnancy with a growing 8-centimeter fibroid, leading to a medically necessary scheduled C-section.

Brittany breaks down the clinical realities of uterine fibroids, from hormonal triggers and elevated risks of preterm labor to C-section necessities when a fibroid blocks the cervix. Through the cultural stories of celebrity advocate Lupita Nyong'o and reality TV stars sharing their fertility journeys, this episode shines a spotlight on the systemic dismissal of Black women's pain and the importance of preserving reproductive autonomy.

In this episode, we also cover:

  • What Are Uterine Fibroids? Understanding benign tumors, symptoms, and how pregnancy hormones (estrogen and progesterone) fuel their growth.

  • Pregnancy & Delivery Impact: Navigating high-risk ultrasounds, fetal growth restrictions, placental concerns, and managing a pivot from a vaginal birth plan to a C-section.

  • Treatment Options & Fertility Preservation: Exploring the difference between aggressive options like premature hysterectomy versus fertility-preserving options like a myomectomy or egg freezing.

  • Self-Advocacy Tools: How to track your symptoms, bring a trusted advocate (doula, partner, or parent) to appointments, ask critical questions, and get a second opinion.

Whether you're navigating workplace accommodations, building your postpartum safety net, or seeking evidence-based advocacy, this episode offers a supportive space to honor your whole self.

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Resources & Links Mentioned in This Episode:

🧘‍♀️ Free Prenatal Yoga for Nausea: Check out our new class on YouTube! 

🏋️‍♀️ ProNatal Fitness Group Fitness Course: Level up your coaching for pregnant and postpartum clients using our affiliate link in the show notes. 

📧 Subscribe to Our Newsletter: Join Bump to Beyond on Substack for bi-weekly health law breakdowns and fitness tips. 

Additional Resources:

  • Preeclampsia Support Line: 1-800-665-9341

  • National Maternal Mental Health Hotline: 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262)

  • Postpartum Support International Helpline: 1-800-944-4773


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