Paint the world white: How to stand in solidarity with women living with fibroids
By Ascah Mwango, July 19, 2025Let us paint the world white for Fibroids Awareness Month, shall we?
Every July, we shine a much-needed light on the uterine fibroid condition that affects an estimated 1 in 3 women by the age of 35 and up to 80% by the time they reach 50. These are non-cancerous growths that develop in or on the uterus, and they can bring a storm of symptoms with them: heavy bleeding, intense pain, bloating, fatigue, backaches, infertility, and emotional strain. And yet, despite how common and life-altering fibroids can be, there is still far too much silence surrounding them.
That silence is not just uncomfortable; it is harmful.
But here is the good news: we can change that. We must change that.
While fibroids may affect the individual, the support must come from the collective. No woman should have to walk through that kind of pain alone. Whether you are a friend, a sibling, a partner, a colleague, or simply someone who cares about women’s health, there is always something you can do. Here are real, human, and heartfelt ways you can stand in true, meaningful solidarity.
1. Wear white loudly and proudly
White is the official awareness colour for fibroids. It represents unity, peace, and visibility. Rocking white during Fibroid Awareness Month (or any time of year) is a small but mighty way to say, “I see you. I support you. You are not alone.”
It does not have to be an elaborate outfit. A simple white t-shirt, scarf, hat, wrap, nail polish, or even a pair of socks will do. Want to go bold with a full white outfit? Go for it. Want to keep it minimal? That is okay too. What matters is the message. Take a photo, share it online, and use hashtags like #UnitedInWhite or #FibroidAwareness. You never know who might see it and feel just a little less alone.
2. Listen without trying to fix it
Sometimes the best way to support someone is by simply being present. If a woman opens up to you about living with fibroids, listen with intention. Let her share her story in her way and in her own time.
Do not rush to offer advice unless she specifically asks for it.
3. Speak about tt
For generations, menstruation, period pain, and reproductive health have been treated as taboo topics. That silence has kept many women in the dark, feeling isolated and ashamed. But silence only fuels suffering.
So, start the conversation. Talk about fibroids at dinner tables, in group chats, on social media, and in your circles of influence. Ask questions. Share stories. Share facts. Normalise talking about periods, pain, and reproductive challenges without judgement or shame. The more we talk, the more we normalise care-seeking behaviour and the less women will feel like they have to suffer in silence.
4. Respect her pace
Fibroids can turn someone’s life into a series of unpredictable highs and lows. One day she might feel full of energy, and the next day, she might be curled up in pain, unable to move.
If she cancels plans, reschedules meetings, or seems withdrawn, do not take it personally. Chronic pain is exhausting, both physically and mentally. Be gentle. Offer grace. Let her know it is okay to take space when she needs it. What she needs more than anything is understanding, not pressure.
5. Show up
Doctor’s appointments, diagnostic tests, and treatment consultations can be overwhelming. If she asks you to go with her to the hospital or clinic, say yes. Your presence can be reassuring. Take notes, ask helpful questions, or simply sit next to her in the waiting room.
Sometimes, just knowing that someone is there, really there, can make all the difference. You do not have to have all the answers. You just have to be present.
6. Share resources thoughtfully
If you come across a helpful article, a podcast episode, a fibroids awareness event, or a support group, ask her if she would like you to share it. Be gentle and respectful. Information is powerful, but it should not feel like pressure.
What you should avoid are horror stories or unsolicited treatments you saw on the internet. Comments like “My aunt had surgery and it went wrong” or “Just drink ginger and it will go away” are not helpful. If she wants advice, she will ask. If you are sharing, make sure it is from a credible and compassionate source.
7. Celebrate the small victories
Sometimes, the bravest thing a woman with fibroids can do is get out of bed, brush her hair, go to work, or respond to a text. The everyday things that others take for granted might be mountains she is climbing with effort.
So celebrate those wins. Send a kind message. Tell her she is doing amazing. Cheer her on for showing up for herself, no matter how “small” it may seem. Living with fibroids takes a deep kind of strength, and your encouragement can remind her of just how strong she is.
8. Support change
Beyond personal support, we must also raise our voices for system-wide change. Millions of women cannot afford the treatment they need. Others are misdiagnosed or dismissed by healthcare systems that do not take women’s pain seriously.
Support organisations working to improve menstrual health, fund research, and push for better policies. Sign petitions. Donate if you are able. Share campaigns. Encourage menstrual health education in schools. Push for fibroids to be included in national health strategies. Reproductive health should never be a luxury. It should be right.
White
Being united in white is not just about wearing a colour. It is about choosing to stand with women, mothers, daughters, sisters, friends, and strangers who are living with fibroids, often with quiet courage and silent strength.
It is about being present. Speaking up. Offering softness. Sharing the burden. And letting women everywhere know that they are not fighting this alone.
So put on that white outfit. Start that conversation. Be that person who cares enough to show up loudly, lovingly, and with purpose.