Lupita Nyong’o reveals recurrence of uterine fibroids and launches “Make Fibroids Count” campaign to raise awareness and research funding
Award-winning actress Lupita Nyong’o has disclosed that she is once again facing uterine fibroids, more than a decade after her initial diagnosis during the height of her Hollywood breakthrough.
The revelation was made during a candid interview on the Today show.
Nyong’o reflected on 2014, the year she won the Academy Award for her performance in 12 Years a Slave, noting that the professional triumph coincided with severe pelvic pain and heavy bleeding that ultimately led to surgery and her first fibroid diagnosis.
Doctors had warned at the time that the growths could recur. She now confirms that she has “double the amount of fibroids” compared to her initial diagnosis.
Expressing frustration over limited medical options, Nyong’o criticised the slow progress in treatments for women’s reproductive health.
She urged women experiencing similar symptoms to seek multiple medical opinions and cautioned against viewing hysterectomy as the only solution.
In response to her personal health challenges, Nyong’o has launched the “Make Fibroids Count” campaign.
The initiative aims to increase research funding, promote less invasive treatment methods, and create a platform for women to share their experiences openly.
She highlighted the emotional impact of the condition, noting that the largest fibroid she had measured the size of an orange a comparison she said resonated with many women.
Medical studies indicate that up to 80 percent of women may develop fibroids by age 50, yet the condition often goes underreported and undertreated.
Nyong’o argues that societal normalisation has contributed to underinvestment in research and a lack of innovative treatments.
Despite her ongoing health battle, Nyong’o continues to advance her career.
She is set to star in The Odyssey, an upcoming film directed by Christopher Nolan, due for release this summer.
The actress said the overwhelming public response to her story has strengthened her resolve to advocate for awareness, research, and systemic improvements in women’s healthcare.
