We’re currently working on developing a fibroids booklet to address some of the issues that came out of our fibroids survey last year. From the survey we found that:
- There was a general low level of awareness of fibroids amongst participants prior to their diagnosis.
- There was a good level of awareness of the main symptoms of fibroids but a low level of awareness of other symptoms.
- Participants were aware that ethnicity was a risk factor for fibroids but less aware of other risk factors.
- 80% percent of participants stated that they needed information but only 53% said that this was available to them.
- 63% of women said they didn’t feel that they had enough information to make an informed decision about their treatment
In addition to the above some participants stated that their biggest challenge in managing their condition was the lack of information and conflicting information about fibroids. For example, one participant said, “there is not enough information, particularly with regards to surgery alternatives and diet changes.”
What our booklet will cover
Our booklet will provide much-needed information on all aspects of fibroids. It will cover the symptoms of fibroids allowing women to quickly pick up on the possibility that they might have fibroids ensuring an early diagnosis which may mean less invasive treatment, the prevention of unnecessary pain and avoiding loss of fertility. It will also raise awareness of the risk factors and provide information on what changes women can make to their lifestyle to reduce their risk of developing fibroids and it will help women identify whether they are at a high risk of developing fibroids and therefore whether they should be more vigilant about recognizing symptoms and changing their lifestyle to reduce their risk. Finally, it will also cover treatment options so women are aware of what options are available to them.
We appreciate all those who have helped so far
We’re delighted to have had some excellent reviewers work with us. We would like to say a big thank you to Dr Nigel Hacking, Consultant Interventional Radiologist at Southampton University Hospital and Miss Rosol Hamid, Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist and Head of Women Services at Croydon University Hospital for providing very useful and helpful comments and suggestions. Additionally we’d also like to thank The Brielle Agency for proofreading our work .
We need your help for the final review
Now we are looking for members of the public to read the final draft before it goes off to our wonderful designers, Adinqra, and provide us with feedback on what needs to be improved. If you’d like to help please contact us on info@thelakefoundation.com
