Fibroid Awareness Month: Why Early Diagnosis Matters

Uterine fibroids remain one of the most common reproductive health conditions affecting women worldwide. They are non-cancerous growths that develop in the uterus, particularly among women of reproductive age.

Globally:

• An estimated 226 million women were living with uterine fibroids in 2019.
• Approximately 9.6 million new cases were reported globally in 2019.

In Africa:

• Approximately 26.7 million women were living with fibroids in 2019.

• An estimated 1.38 million new fibroid cases were recorded in 2019.

In Kenya:

• An estimated 1.6 million women may be affected, although the true number may be higher due to late diagnosis.

Many women delay seeking help because they assume symptoms such as painful periods or heavy bleeding are normal. Others may feel embarrassed discussing menstrual or reproductive health concerns.

However, symptoms that interfere with daily life should not be ignored.

Early diagnosis can help to:

• Reduce the risk of complications such as severe anaemia, chronic pain, and fertility challenges.
• Provide access to more effective treatment choices.
• Manage potential impacts on fertility and pregnancy.
• Reduce symptoms and supports daily well-being, improving quality of Life.

Recognising the Warning Signs

Women should consider speaking to a healthcare provider if they experience:

• Heavy or prolonged periods: Excessive bleeding, large clots, or periods lasting longer than usual.
• Severe menstrual pain: Intense cramps or worsening period discomfort.
• Bleeding between periods: Unusual spotting or bleeding outside the normal cycle.
• Pelvic pressure or abdominal enlargement: Feeling of fullness, pressure, or increased abdominal size.
• Frequent urination: Increased need to urinate due to pressure on the bladder.
• Pain during intercourse: Discomfort or pain during sexual activity.
• Difficulty becoming pregnant: Fibroids may affect fertility in some women.
• Fatigue or dizziness: Possible signs of anaemia from heavy bleeding.

These symptoms do not always mean fibroids are present, but they should be assessed to determine the cause.

Common Myths and Facts About Fibroids

Myth: Fibroids are cancer.
Fact: Most fibroids are benign (non-cancerous).

Myth: Painful, heavy periods are normal.
Fact: Persistent symptoms should be assessed by a healthcare provider.

Myth: Only older women get fibroids.
Fact: Fibroids can affect women of reproductive age.

Myth: Fibroids always cause infertility.
Fact: Many women with fibroids can conceive and have healthy pregnancies.

Myth: All fibroids require surgery.
Fact: Treatment depends on symptoms, size, and individual needs.

Myth: Fibroids are caused by lifestyle choices.
Fact: Fibroids are linked to biological and genetic factors.

Myth: Fibroids are rare.
Fact: They are one of the most common gynaecological conditions affecting women.

Fibroids are common, but suffering in silence should not be!

This Fibroid Awareness Month, let us encourage conversations around women’s health, challenge myths, and remind women that persistent symptoms deserve attention.

Know the signs. Seek care early. Take charge of your health.

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