'Basic Instinct' Actress Sharon Stone Reveals Fibroid Tumor Diagnosis

Actress Sharon Stone announced she has a fibroid tumor that needs to be removed immediately. The tumor was initially misdiagnosed. Stone recently received a second opinion, resulting in this diagnosis.

"Just had another misdiagnosis and incorrect procedure. This time double epidural. [With] worsening pain went for a SECOND OPINION: I have a large fibroid tumor that must come out," Stone, 64, wrote Nov. 1 on Twitter.

A fibroid tumor is a noncancerous growth that occurs for reasons doctors can't quite explain. However, fibroids can have different symptoms at different stages in a woman's life. Signs and symptoms vary by age.

In menopausal and postmenopausal women, uterine fibroids are not likely to develop. However, if they are diagnosed, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is vital.

Learning about her diagnosis

Stone is urging other women to seek second opinions and take their health into their own hands. She has been a proud activist for women's health.

Stone wrote on Twitter, "Ladies in particular: Don't get blown off. GET A SECOND OPINION. It can save your life."

Fibroid sufferers have access to various treatments, including pain medications and close monitoring. If the fibroid continues to grow, however, your doctor might advise surgery, including minimally invasive procedures such as laparoscopic or robotic myomectomy.

Fibroids are historically difficult to diagnose because there are so many symptoms, including:

• Pelvic discomfort or pressure
• Back or leg pain or cramping
• Pain during sex
• Frequent urination
• Trouble emptying the bladder

Second opinions are important, but if you're not sure how to get one or where to start, telehealth offers a quick and easy way to find healthcare professionals. And you might be surprised by how many physicians and therapists have recognized the efficacy of video consultations. To make it easier to connect with a healthcare professional, Giddy telehealth offers a portal featuring same-day appointments and affordable care.

The takeaway

Fibroids, while difficult to diagnose, affect nearly 80 percent of people with uteruses, which is an astonishing number given not much research has been done to figure out how they are caused, nor has a cure been developed.

Fibroids may not be preventable, but there are ways to manage symptoms. Certain lifestyle changes can help, but ultimately, you and your doctor will make that call. Stone will undergo surgery.

Her news brings light to women's health and the importance of advocating for your own health.

"I'll be down for 4-6 weeks for full recovery," she wrote on Twitter. "Thx for your care. It's all good."