Black Women's Perceptions about Uterine Fibroids

Background : Black women are at the greatest risk of uterine fibroids in the US.  Guided by the Theory of Planned Behavior, the purpose of this study was to assess the norms, beliefs, knowledge and attitudes of Black women with uterine fibroids have about their condition, to explore their decisional regret regarding treatment, and its effect on quality of life. Methods: A qualitative focus group methodology was applied. Sample were all Black women who have or had uterine fibroids before menapause. Women were recruited at local Houston churches. Results: Women in this sample had generally positive perceptions about health professionals, expressing trust in their doctors to help them make good decisions. Women relied also on their mother for advice with treatment. Women concerned with fertility tended to do the most research and know all treatment options, compared to those who sought information due to pain alone. Women who chose treatment based on fertility had more shared decision making, compared to women whose decision was based on pain. Overall, women in this study had little regret regarding their treatment choices.  Conclusion: Although they expressed trust in their physicians, the women felt the medical community is not concerned about fibroids due to their race and gender. Participants sought education through their physician and the internet, but found neither to be helpful, in particular with stigma. A positive attitude, belief and norms regarding having fibroids can lead to more proactive actions, including having shared decision making and searching for education on treatment options.