My Story: A Journey of Fibroids, Kidney Health, and the Importance of Awareness
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Over 20 years ago, I underwent surgery to remove large uterine fibroids. At the time, I thought it was a condition that only affected my reproductive health. What I didn’t realise was just how far-reaching fibroids could be — even affecting organs as vital as the kidneys.
What Are Fibroids?
According to the NHS:
"Fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in or around the womb (uterus). They’re made up of muscle and fibrous tissue and can vary in size." [NHS, 2024]
In my case, one of the fibroids grew to over 10 cm, pressing against my ureter — the tube that carries urine from the kidneys to the bladder. This pressure caused urinary obstruction, which was further aggravated by my job at the time: working in an acute NHS setting where I regularly carried a bleep and had little time to rest or use the bathroom.
The National Kidney Federation UK explains this connection:
"Obstruction to the flow of urine can damage the kidneys. This can happen if a growth such as a tumour, a stone or, in rare cases, an enlarged uterus compresses the ureters." [NKF UK, 2023]
A Health Disparity That’s Not Talked About Enough
As a Black woman of African-Caribbean heritage, my experience is, unfortunately, not unique. Studies confirm that Black women are two to three times more likely to develop fibroids than white women. They also tend to develop them earlier, experience more severe symptoms, and are more likely to need surgery. [NHS UK]
For me, the symptoms began with frequent urination, back pain, and a bloated abdomen. At first, I dismissed them. But as things worsened, I sought help. Blood and urine tests followed, and I was shocked to find my eGFR (estimated glomerular filtration rate) was just 43 — a worrying drop from the normal range of 60–90.
A CT scan confirmed a diagnosis of hydronephrosis, a condition where the kidney becomes swollen due to a buildup of urine.
"When urine cannot drain out from the kidney to the bladder due to a blockage, the kidney can swell. Over time, this can damage the kidney and reduce its function." – [American Kidney Fund, 2002]
A Surgical Solution — and Long-Term Impact
Surgery was arranged to relieve the pressure and restore urine flow. It helped — but not without leaving lasting effects.
Now, 25 years later, I’m still closely monitored through routine kidney blood tests, especially my eGFR, which remains an essential marker of how well my kidneys are functioning.
"A low eGFR may indicate your kidneys are not working as well as they should. This can be a sign of chronic kidney disease (CKD)." – [NHS UK]
Why I’m Sharing This
What began as a “women’s health issue” became a kidney health issue — and this is something I feel too few women in our communities know about. Fibroids and CKD are both more prevalent in African and Afro-Caribbean populations, yet the link between the two is rarely discussed.
"Kidney disease often has no symptoms until it is very advanced. This is why awareness, early detection, and education are critical." – [National Kidney Foundation, 2024]
So I’m sharing my story — for every woman who might be silently suffering, second-guessing her symptoms, or putting off that check-up. I urge you:
• Don’t ignore persistent urinary or pelvic symptoms
• Ask for further tests if something doesn’t feel right
• Get a second opinion if needed
• Know your numbers — especially your eGFR
Because awareness saves lives.
AACKA is committed to amplifying voices like mine — and yours — so that no one faces these health battles alone.
📧 Reach out to us or share your own journey at: help@aacka.co.ukm
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