Nationwide — Award-winning Kenyan actress Lupita Nyong’o has revealed that she has over 50 fibroids in her uterus, causing pain, heavy bleeding, and other health challenges. She first discovered them years ago and now works to raise awareness and support research for better treatments.
Nyong’o initially thought her symptoms were normal. She experienced fatigue, pelvic pain, and heavy periods for years without realizing anything was wrong. “I didn’t understand my body. I didn’t know what was going on,” she told TODAY.com.
Her routine check-up changed everything. An ultrasound revealed about 30 fibroids in her uterus. Doctors offered her two options — to live with the pain or have surgery. Nyong’o chose a myomectomy to remove them.
Twelve years later, the fibroids have returned and this time more than 50. Despite the surgery, her symptoms came back, leaving her frustrated and searching for alternatives. “They’re going haywire in my body, and nobody is helping. Nobody knows what to do to mitigate them,” she said.
To expand treatment options, Nyong’o partnered with the Foundation for Women’s Health. Together, they launched the #MakeFibroidsCount campaign, which funds research on non-invasive treatments and encourages people with fibroids to share their stories.
Fibroids affect 40% to 80% of people with uteruses and impact Black women more than others. Their causes remain unclear, and surgery does not guarantee they won’t return. Nyong’o hopes her openness gives others the guidance and support she initially lacked.
She also learned how common fibroids are among friends and family. Many had dealt with them quietly, undergoing myomectomies or even hysterectomies. By speaking out, Nyong’o connects with others facing similar struggles and empowers women to advocate for better treatment and community support.
“I have been rewarded so much by being able to tap into and join forces and connect arms with other women who have been fighting this fight for a long time now,” Nyong’o said.