When Johanna Skilling was diagnosed with fibroids in 1995, she found little information, advice, and support for her condition. Fibroids—though an estimated eight in ten women will be affected in their lifetime—has remained a little talked about condition in the medical world. In an effort to be proactive in the management and treatment of her condition, Skilling became a "patient-expert" on fibroids—by reading medical and scientific books and journals, talking with doctors, and networking with other people who have fibroids. Now she shares her experience and knowledge with everyone who has been newly diagnosed. With great sensitivity, Skilling walks the newly diagnosed step-by-step through everything one needs to do and learn each day of the first week after diagnosis, each subsequent week of the first month, and the following eleven months of the crucial first year. In clear, concise, accessible language, Skilling covers a wide range of practical, medical, and lifestyle issues, beginning with coming to terms with the diagnosis and then moving on to subjects including: § Treatment options § Current medical research and medications § Strategies for making necessary lifestyle changes § Guidelines and tips for modifying your diet § Stress management and exercise § Discussing your condition with family, friends, and co-workers § Handling sexual and social issues § Effective alternative therapies § Support group resources By providing reliable, useful, empathetic, and up-to-date information you need to know when you most need to know it, is an indispensable guide for every woman coming to terms with a fibroids diagnosis.