Africa Daily - Why do so many African women suffer from fibroids?

Why do so many African women suffer from fibroids?

Download Why do so many African women suffer from fibroids?

“We’re raised in a culture where these kind of things are hush hush. You don’t speak out about them. Ever since I shared my story a lot of other women I know started talking about theirs… This is exactly why I’m feeling better and I’m not feeling like it’s the end of the world.”

It’s a shocking statistic: about 80% of black women will suffer from fibroids at some point in their lives.

Fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus. They can cause a number of painful symptoms, including back pain and heavy bleeding and can make it difficult to get pregnant. This can bring stigma and misunderstanding – with women blamed for having caused them in some way.

Africa Daily finds out about the risk factors involved, what options are open to women – and hears from a Nigerian woman who’s dealing with the condition.

Presenter: Mpho Lakaje (@mpholakaje)
Guests:
Stephanie Odili (stephanieodile.com)
Dr Elizabeth Byakwaga (@ByakwagaE)

Published on Wednesday, 13th April 2022.

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