Lupita Nyong’o Felt ‘Shame’ Dealing with Fibroids, Says Women Are ‘Conditioned to Expect Pain’ (Exclusive)

Lupita Nyong’o has opened up about the deep shame and struggles she faced while coping with uterine fibroids, a prevalent yet under-discussed health issue affecting many women. In an interview with Linsey Davis on ABC News Live Prime, the acclaimed actress shared her journey with the condition, highlighting the societal pressures that often lead women to suffer in silence.

The 43-year-old Oscar winner spoke candidly about the emotional hurdles while dealing with fibroids, which are noncancerous growths on the uterus that can cause a range of debilitating symptoms including severe menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and fatigue. She remarked that many women, including herself, have been conditioned since adolescence to endure discomfort without questioning it. “We’re not taught how to observe our bodies,” Nyong’o stated, expressing how societal norms can often dismiss women’s health concerns.

Nyong’o recalled her experience as one where she was “hiding in plain sight.” Despite her public persona, she was grappling with the physical toll that fibroids took on her wellbeing. “It looked like shame,” she reflected, revealing how she often questioned her own body and choices. As the actress continued with her career, she felt compelled to maintain a facade of normalcy, showing up for red carpet events while battling severe symptoms behind the scenes.

In a particularly sobering admission, Nyong’o disclosed that she endured one extended menstrual cycle that lasted over 30 days, leading to fatigue and pre-anemia. This transparency resonates with the experiences of many women who have felt compelled to put on a brave face in public while navigating health challenges privately. The issue is further compounded by the fact that discussions around women’s health issues, particularly those like fibroids, remain largely taboo.

Earlier in the month, Nyong’o revealed that she has dealt with 77 uterine fibroids over the years. Of these, she has had 25 surgically removed, while more than 50 continue to grow within her uterus, with the largest being comparable in size to an orange. The severity of this condition underscores her commitment to breaking the silence around it.

To tackle this issue head-on, Nyong’o has initiated the Make Fibroids Count campaign in collaboration with the Foundation for Women’s Health. This initiative aims not only to raise awareness about uterine fibroids, but also to promote research into less invasive treatment options, which can significantly improve the quality of life for many women suffering from this condition.

The actress’s efforts are bolstered by her belief in the importance of open dialogue about women’s health issues, something she feels has been lacking. By sharing her own experience, Nyong’o hopes to encourage others to speak out and seek the medical attention they deserve without the associated stigma.

In addition to her activism, Nyong’o’s story is a reminder of the importance of education and awareness surrounding women’s health issues. As societal attitudes gradually shift towards more openness, it is crucial for women to feel empowered in discussing their experiences and seeking help.

Nyong’o’s full interview is available for viewing on ABC News Live Prime, providing further insight into her journey and the advocacy work she is passionately pursuing. This exchange not only shines a light on a pressing health issue affecting countless women but also exemplifies the power of sharing personal stories to foster understanding and change in society.

By navigating her own difficulties while in the public eye, Lupita Nyong’o not only sheds light on the complexities of women’s health but also promotes a necessary conversation that challenges long-standing cultural norms.