ABOUT AFMU

Advocating for My Uterus (AFMU) was conceptualized in October 2021. The mission is to support and inspire women (and those who love them) to advocate for their reproductive health by providing resources, support, and educational tools. The primary focus are women dealing with uterine fibroids, polycystic ovarian syndrome, endometriosis, heavy menstrual cycles, menopause, and for women considering egg preservation.

Provide support to women diagnosed with reproductive condition.
Provide resources and education for those dealing with reproductive concerns such as: uterine fibroids, polycystic ovarian syndrome, endometriosis, heavy cycles, and menopause.
Help women advocate for their health by requesting 2nd opinions and learning to navigate through the healthcare system.
Provide surgery preparation recommendations and tools
Host reproductive/women’s health education and awareness events (in-person and virtual).

FOUNDER

Dr. Joyvina Evans is an Assistant Professor, public health professional, author, creator of Confidence Academy, and founder of Advocating for My Uterus. Dr. Evans earned a Ph.D. and M.S. in Public Health, M.S. in Administration and B.B.A. in Business. She successfully completed the Women in Education Leadership Program through Harvard University’s Graduate School of Education and earned the Executive Leadership and High-Performance Leadership Certificates from Cornell University. Dr. Joy worked in clinical research for years before transitioning into higher education.

Dr. Evans was first diagnosed with uterine fibroids in 2009 and had a minimally invasive procedure for fibroid removal in 2010. There were a few fibroids that remained after the procedure due to the risks outweighing the benefits. After a decade, the fibroids grew larger and new ones were detected. There were no symptoms and no major issue, however Dr. Evans was told to 'have a hysterectomy'. After leaving the office, she immediately called her primary gynecologist, who reassured her that she did not need a hysterectomy (based on her case). Dr. Evans researched fibroid specialists throughout the country, and she immediately changed her care to a physician at University of Michigan. Multiple physicians verified that she did not need to have a hysterectomy. After moving to the Washington D.C. area, she was referred to a gynecologist (Dr. Shawn Davis-Wilensky) who thoroughly reviewed imaging and came up with a surgical plan. While in the hospital, after having an open procedure to remove over fifteen (15) fibroids, Dr. Evans realized that in addition to skilled physicians, her research background along with the push to advocate for her health were the reasons she still had her uterus. As such, she made it a mission to inform as many women as possible to advocate for quality care and their reproductive health.

*Dr. Evans personally thanks Dr. Shawn Davis-Wilensky for the additional push to use her knowledge (and personality type) to help women navigate the health system and prepare for surgery.*