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  1. Knowledge and News on Women: OWH Blog

Fibroid Awareness Month 2022

Knowledge and News on Women’s Health (KNOWH) blog from FDA Office of Women’s Health

KNOWH Blog

The Power of Your Story: Meet La-Anna

Pregnant woman in white

Tell us a bit about yourself – Who is La-Anna Douglas? 

I am 40 years old and for over four years I have been using my platform as well as my voice to spread awareness about fibroids, infertility, and other reproductive health issues. I have been happily married to my husband Tim for over eighteen years. I am a mommy to two miracle daughters after going through eight years of infertility, eight years of secondary infertility, three laparoscopic surgeries, a failed IVF transfer and a robotic laparoscopic myomectomy. I am a survivor, writer, public speaker, model and women’s advocate. 

Can you tell us about, briefly summarize, your fibroid journey?

In my early 20’s, I was diagnosed with three small fibroids, but I was told to not worry about them. My doctor said to concentrate on the other issues I was having at the time. I suffered with horrible periods since the age of 10 and I often felt I should keep quiet about my concerns. I completely forgot about the fibroids as time went on and while trying to conceive. In October of 2020, I requested a consultation because of the horrible pain I was having. After an ultrasound and an MRI, I was notified that my fibroids had grown. My options were to have a hysterectomy or a robotic laparoscopic myomectomy. I proceeded with the robotic laparoscopic myomectomy in February 2021, became pregnant in August, and gave birth to my second miracle daughter earlier this year. 

What do you wish you knew earlier in your fibroid journey?

I wish I knew of the many options to help treat fibroids as it can be debilitating disease. For years, I believed my only option was to have a hysterectomy. I am so glad that my new doctor explained my options clearly which gave me the opportunity to make a choice.

Where are you now in your fibroid journey? 

I am so happy, fearless, healthy and continuing to raise awareness these days. I have embraced my journey and everything that makes me who I am. I have overcome so much, and I have learned to love every part of my story. I realize that fibroids do not define who I am. It is my purpose to instill hope in those who are still suffering in silence. 

How have you adjusted to being a mom of two post fibroids? 

I have adjusted really well. In my 20’s I hated my body and I felt that my life wasn’t worth saving. Today, at 40, I am stronger, wiser, compassionate and I have healed both physically and spiritually. I love being a mom and I often reflect on what it took to become a mother. I also continue to think about all the women who continue to struggle with fibroids and infertility issues. My heart is with them, and I believe we are all in this fight together.

Watch La-Anna's story below to learn more about how she has navigated living with fibroids and her journey to embracing her new life.

 

Learn more about Uterine Fibroids at the following resources

For resources and materials on other women's health topics, visit www.fda.gov/womens. 

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