Lupita Nyong’o opens up about a private health struggle

Oscar-winning actress Lupita Nyong’o has publicly shared that she was diagnosed with uterine fibroids in 2014, the same year she won her Academy Award for 12 Years a Slave.

The actress revealed that she underwent surgery to remove approximately 30 non-cancerous tumors, a procedure that she said left her physically and emotionally drained.

In a new video released during Fibroid Awareness Month, Nyong’o described fibroids as benign growths that can cause symptoms including heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and reproductive complications.

She also spoke about the social and medical silence surrounding menstrual and reproductive health, calling for more open dialogue and less stigma.

“I was dismissed, confused, and alone,” she said, recounting how long it took to get a diagnosis and appropriate care.

Nyong’o is now partnering with the Foundation for Women’s Health to launch a new fibroid research grant.

In addition, she announced plans to collaborate with US lawmakers on legislation aimed at improving fibroid research, funding, and treatment access, particularly for communities disproportionately affected.

Fibroids impact up to 80% of Black women by age 50, according to health experts, yet receive limited funding and public attention.

Nyong’o’s disclosure adds a high-profile voice to a growing movement advocating for better understanding and care of this common condition.