Black History Month: tackling inequalities in women’s health
October is Black History Month, an opportunity to highlight health inequalities that affect Black communities and to promote practical support available across south east London.
Research shows that Black women are much more likely to experience fibroids and other reproductive health conditions than White women. Around one in five Black women have been diagnosed with fibroids, compared with around one in twenty White women.
Fibroids can cause heavy or prolonged periods, pelvic pain and pressure, and can affect day-to-day life. Too often symptoms go unrecognised or support is hard to find.
That’s why our Women’s and Girls’ Health Hubs are helping to make it easier for residents to get advice, diagnosis and treatment sooner. The hubs bring together clinicians and specialists to provide joined-up care for issues such as heavy menstrual bleeding, contraception, menopause and pre-conception health.
Two pilot hubs launched earlier this year – one covering Bexley and Greenwich, and another in Lambeth – open to women and girls aged 13 and over living in those boroughs.
If you’re worried about fibroids or heavy periods, or you’re unsure where to start, you can find practical information, local services and self-referral options on our website.
Visit our Women’s and Girls’ Health pages to learn more: www.selondonics.org/our-residents/your-health/living-well/womens-and-girls-health/