A WOMAN’S GUIDE TO COPING WITH FIBROIDS—WITH LOVE & CLARITY

Fibroids are non-cancerous tumors that grow in or around the womb. They may occur singly (a woman may have just one fibroid) or in multiples. Fibroids vary in size, from as tiny as a seed to as large as a watermelon. For many, fibroids remain small and silent, while for others, they bring discomfort, heavy periods, or even fertility challenges. But wherever you fall on that spectrum, please know this: You’re not alone, and you deserve clear, compassionate answers.

Who Can Have Fibroids?

Fibroids are far more common than most people think. In fact, in Nigeria, nearly one in four women develops them at some point in their lives. However, they are more common in:

• Women who have never been pregnant
• People who started menstruation at an early age and/or hit menopause later than usual
• Obese women
• African women, and
• Women whose relative(s) have had it at one time or another.

What To Look Out For

Many fibroids are small and quiet, causing no symptoms at all. In fact, some women live with them for years without ever knowing. But when fibroids do make their presence known, they can bring a mix of physical discomfort and emotional stress. Here are some signs to watch for:

• Abdominal Pain or Discomfort: You may feel a dull ache or a persistent sense of pressure in your lower belly.
• Heavy Menstrual Flow: Your periods may be so heavy that they soak through pads or tampons quickly, last longer than usual, or feel unusually intense.
• Irregular Menstrual Flow: You might have more than one period in a month or notice unpredictable bleeding patterns.
• Abdominal Swelling: Your tummy may appear bigger than usual. Some women even shared that well-wishers had congratulated them on being pregnant, which made them feel awkward or upset.
• Frequent Urination: The weight of the fibroid in the womb may rest against the bladder and cause you to pee often.
• Reduced Fertility: Fibroids can sometimes make it harder to get pregnant. For instance, if the fibroid is located at the entrance of the fallopian tube, it blocks the tube and interferes with fertilisation. In some cases, a large fibroid embedded in the wall of the womb can distort the shape of the uterus and prevent implantation.
• Pain During Sex: Depending on the location of the fibroid, intimacy can become uncomfortable or even painful.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, know that you’re not alone. It’s okay to ask questions or seek answers. The most important thing is to listen to your body and trust when something feels off.

How Do You Know If You Have Fibroids?

In many cases, fibroids do not announce themselves; they just live quietly in the womb, trying not to be too conspicuous. However, if you are curious or if you suspect that you have a fibroid, there are ways to check:

• A pelvic exam at the doctor’s office is a great place to start. In a pelvic exam, your doctor feels for swellings in your pelvis, particularly your womb and surrounding structures.
• An ultrasound scan either through the abdomen or through the vagina provides reliable visuals of the womb.
• An MRI takes it multiple steps further by giving accurate information on the shape, size, and location of the fibroid. This is particularly useful if you are considering a surgical treatment.

How Can You Prevent Fibroids?

There is no known way to prevent fibroids, but adopting a healthy lifestyle is encouraged. Habits like balanced diets, regular exercise, and stress management are always supportive choices for overall reproductive health.

How To Treat Fibroids

a.      Monitor It

If you notice a fibroid but don’t experience any symptoms, you don’t need to take any action immediately. You can monitor it routinely and keep track of any changes you notice as they come.

b.     Wait It Out

You can try waiting it out. You see, fibroids thrive on estrogen, and once menopause comes around, estrogen levels drop significantly, consequently shrinking the fibroids.

c.      Use Medications

Some meds can be used to reduce the heavy menstrual bleeding commonly seen in fibroids and prevent anaemia. Some other medications can temporarily mimic menopause, helping to shrink the fibroids. But, like menopause, they come with side effects, and they’re not a long-term fix, especially if you’re trying to conceive.

d.     Remove It

If you don’t mind surgery, this is an option you can consider. It removes the burden of the fibroid(s) and preserves fertility; however, it doesn’t prevent another fibroid from growing.

e.     Last Resort

In rare and severe cases, your doctor may recommend a hysterectomy, the surgical removal of the womb. It is an extreme measure reserved for extreme cases and one that should come with support, time, and clear guidance.

What Happens If You Choose Not to Treat It?

Choosing not to treat a fibroid is a valid option, especially if it’s not causing distress. However, here are a few possible outcomes:

• It may remain quiet and unproblematic forever
• It could die and bleed off on its own (this is commonly triggered by pregnancy)
• Menopause also causes it to die off
• It might grow and start affecting your quality of life, in which case, you have to treat it.

On A Final Note…

Fibroids are common, and if you’re dealing with them, you’re not alone. It’s okay to feel overwhelmed, confused, or even frustrated. But remember: there is support, there are options, and there is no one “right way” to handle fibroids.

Whether you choose to monitor them, treat them, or seek further advice, give yourself the grace and time to make the best decision for your body. Never hesitate to ask questions, seek support, or say, “I need help.” You deserve clarity, comfort, and care every step of the way. This guide was written with love and clarity because you deserve both.