Fibroids are benign tumors made of smooth muscle cells and fibrous connective tissue that develop in the uterus. It is estimated that up to 80% percent of women will develop fibroids in their lifetime. Black women are significantly more likely to develop fibroids and require treatment.  

• Fibroids 101 – Fibroids overview, treatment options, myths, and frequently asked questions by The White Dress Project, a nonprofit dedicated to spreading awareness about fibroids.  

• Fibroids Fast Facts – Statistics and FAQs from the Office on Women’s Health. Eight facts about uterine fibroids that every woman should know.  

• Resources for People Living with Fibroids – A patient empowerment guide, a detailed overview of treatment options, and access to fibroids specialists.  

• Understanding Racial Disparities for Women with Uterine Fibroids – Black women are hit hardest by fibroids, diagnosed roughly three times as frequently as white women and with more severe symptoms. Learn why.  

• Fibroids Stories – 30 black women share what it’s like to live with uterine fibroids. More patient stories: Jennifer and Erin. Wendy. Stephanie. White Dress Project story video diaries.  

July is National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month. It is a time to bring awareness to the unique challenges that racial and ethnic minorities in the United States face when it comes to mental illness. People from racial and ethnic minority groups are less likely to receive mental health care. In 2015, among adults with any mental illness, 48% of whites received mental health services, compared with 31% of blacks and Hispanics, and 22% of Asians.  

• Mental Health Disparities for Diverse Populations – Get fact sheets on the state of mental health for different races, ethnicities, genders, and sexual orientations.  

• Mental Health in the U.S. by the Numbers – 1 in 5 U.S. adults experience mental illness.  

• Most Common Mental Health Issues in the U.S. – Anxiety. Depression. Bipolar Disorder.  

• Mental Health Resources for Marginalized Communities – The American Association for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) has put together a vetted directory of resources.  

• Crisis Hotlines & Resources – Need to talk to someone? Specialists are available today for confidential crisis support.  

• BIPOC Stories of Mental Illness –This Is My Brave maintains a directory of personal stories and testimonials of people in marginalized groups living with mental illness.  

July 31 is National Orgasm Day. An orgasm is what usually happens when you reach the height of sexual arousal. When you have an orgasm — aka cum or climax — sexual tension increases until it reaches a peak, and pressure in your body and genitals is released.    

• The Female Orgasm: How it Works – Want it, need it, have to have it — but what precisely is happening when you’re climaxing? Here, the science behind the female orgasm. 

• 7 Health Benefits of Orgasms – Who said something good for you couldn’t also be fun?  

• How to Have a Better Orgasm According to Science – It’s important to know that everyone’s bodies and experiences are unique. In other words, there’s no “right” way to have an orgasm. But if you’re curious about how to have an orgasm — either on your own or during sex — keep reading.   

• 23 Masturbation Tips for People with Vaginas –  Sometimes you just need to get off — even when you don’t have (or don’t want) someone to help out. If you have a vagina, what’s the best way to do it? The Advocate weighs in.  

• Is the G Spot Real? – We have the answer.  

• What You Need to Know About a Popular Arousal Drug on the Market – Addyi is the first FDA-approved drug to treat a lack of sexual desire. It comes with risks.  

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