Tennis legend Venus Williams has opened up about her enduring battle with fibroids and the healthcare challenges she faced in obtaining a correct diagnosis.
Venus Williams Discusses Misdiagnosis
In a recent interview, Williams expressed her frustration over years of suffering that doctors often dismissed as “normal” menstrual symptoms, which left her feeling “outraged” at the lack of adequate medical attention.
The seven-time Grand Slam champion recalled the painful experiences of living with fibroids, noncancerous tumors in the uterine wall, throughout her tennis career. Now 45, she revealed to NBC News that as her menstrual cramps became more severe, involving nausea and heavy bleeding, medical professionals continued to misinterpret her symptoms as part of her normal cycle.
“The situation escalated to an unbearable level. I had severe bleeding that was unimaginable, yet my doctors insisted it was normal. I never understood that something was wrong,” Williams shared.
Despite experiencing symptoms like chronic anemia from heavy periods requiring iron transfusions, healthcare providers did not adequately investigate the underlying issues, leaving Williams without clarity on her condition.
Williams Reflects on Her Health Challenges During Competitions
For several years, Williams competed at the elite level while enduring these health struggles. The symptoms not only impacted her physically but also drained her energy during matches. Initially suspecting autoimmune conditions, she later discovered her true ailments were fibroids and a related condition known as adenomyosis.
Williams was often compelled to wear additional layers to conceal her bleeding and once became so ill during the 2016 Wimbledon that she collapsed from pain until Serena Williams and a physician intervened.
Dismissed Symptoms and Lack of Awareness
At the age of 37, a physician attributed her symptoms to “aging,” failing to mention the possibility of fibroids. Despite ultrasound monitoring, the significant size and progression of her fibroids weren’t adequately communicated to her.
“I was unaware that my condition was deteriorating,” she admitted, recalling a doctor’s flippant remark about her symptoms being “natural birth control,” which left her concerned about its implications for her future childbearing.
Surgical Intervention for Fibroid Treatment
Eventually, after consulting various doctors, Williams opted for a myomectomy to remove the fibroids. Initially hesitant, she was persuaded by Dr. Taraneh Shirazian, who assured her that surgery would enhance her health.
“She told me, ‘I have seen numerous doctors, yet no one has suggested surgery. Why do you recommend it?'” Dr. Shirazian recounted. “I replied, ‘Because I know it will make you better.'”
Advocating for Improved Women’s Health Care
Despite having access to top-tier medical care, Williams emphasized that many women, especially those suffering from fibroids, often do not receive the care they require.
“Women are frequently underserved in their care for fibroid disease,” she stated. “This is crucial for all of us to consider. Even a world-class athlete with access to every resource struggled to find appropriate care.”
Williams’s experience underscores a prevalent issue in women’s healthcare, particularly relating to fibroids, and advocates for increased awareness and better treatment options for women, aiming to inspire others to seek the care they deserve, irrespective of their accomplishments or status.
