1. What Are Fibroids?

Fibroids (also called myomas or leiomyomas) are non-cancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus (womb). They can be small like a seed or grow very large like a melon. In Ghana, fibroids are very common among women of reproductive age [1][2].

Types of fibroids:

1. Intramural: inside the muscle wall of the womb
2. Submucosal: under the inner lining of the womb
3. Subserosal: on the outer surface
4. Cervical fibroids: in or around the cervix

Image: Fibroids

2. What Causes Fibroids?

Doctors don’t know the exact cause, but research shows:

1. Hormones (estrogen and progesterone) help fibroids grow
2. Family history increases your risk
3. Early periods, obesity, and poor diet are linked [1][3]

❗ Eating ayilo (clay) is not proven to cause fibroids. However, eating too much can lead to other health issues like anemia [3].

Image: Pain in the lower belly

3. What Are the Symptoms?

Some women have no symptoms. Others may experience:

1. Heavy or long menstrual periods
2. Lower abdominal pain
3. Frequent urination
4. Constipation or bloating
5. Difficulty getting pregnant [2]

If your period suddenly stops, it's not likely caused by fibroids. Visit a doctor to check other causes like pregnancy or hormonal issues.

4. Are Some Fibroids Dangerous?

Fibroids are described by size:

1. Small: under 5 cm
2. Medium: 5–10 cm
3. Large: over 10 cm

A small fibroid inside the womb (submucosal) may cause more bleeding than a large one outside the womb (subserosal). In rare cases, twisting of fibroids or severe bleeding can be dangerous [2][4].

While rare, untreated fibroids can cause anemia or even life-threatening complications if bleeding is extreme.

5. Fibroids and Pregnancy

1. Small fibroids often don’t cause problems
2. Large fibroids may cause pain, miscarriage, or block the baby’s position
3. Subserosal fibroids (outside the womb) usually don’t affect the baby
4. After fibroid surgery, doctors recommend waiting 3–6 months before getting pregnant again [5]

Image: Treatment options

6. Treatment Options

A. Medicines and Pills

1. Hormonal drugs like GnRH analogues shrink fibroids
2. Birth control pills manage bleeding
3. Painkillers and iron supplements treat symptoms like cramps and anemia [3][5]

Products like Wins Town tea, Living Bitters, or Duffy herbs are used by some in Ghana. However, these are not medically approved to cure fibroids. Always consult a doctor first [4].

Image: Treatment options

B. Surgery

1. Myomectomy: Removes fibroids but keeps the womb
2. Hysterectomy: Removes the whole womb
3. Fibroid surgery cost in Ghana ranges from GHS 3,000–10,000+, depending on the hospital and surgery type [6]

C. Non-Surgical Options

1. Uterine artery embolization (UAE): Cuts off blood to fibroids
2. MRI-guided ultrasound therapy: Rare in Ghana, available in few private hospitals [5]

D. Lifestyle and Natural Care

1. A healthy diet, reducing stress, and regular exercise help overall health
2. Local remedies like bagaruwa (acacia pods) and fibroid teas lack solid scientific backing
3. These may relieve symptoms but do not shrink fibroids permanently [3][4]

Image: Vegetables

7. Foods to Eat or Avoid

1. Eat: fruits, vegetables, whole grains, cucumbers, and protein (e.g., groundnuts in moderation)
2. Avoid: too much sugar, red meat, or processed foods
3. Fufu is okay if eaten with balanced soups like kontomire or okro [2][3]

8. FAQs (Questions Ghanaians Often Ask)

1. Can fibroid cause pain? → Yes, especially large ones
2. Does ayilo cause fibroid? → No clear evidence
3. Can fibroid stop menstruation? → Rare; usually causes more bleeding
4. Can fibroid kill? → Very rare, but untreated bleeding can be risky
5. Best hospitals in Ghana? → Korle Bu, Komfo Anokye, 37 Military Hospital, and some private clinics like Nyaho Medical Centre [6]

9. When to See a Doctor

Go to a hospital if you have:

1. Very heavy bleeding
2. Constant pelvic pain
3. Large swelling in your abdomen
4. Difficulty getting pregnant

10. Final Word

Fibroids are common—but manageable. Whether you use medication, surgery, or natural methods, always speak to a qualified health professional. Don’t rely on hearsay or untested products. Early diagnosis, good nutrition, and the right treatment can help you live well—even with fibroids.

References

1. Ghana Health Service (2021). Women’s Reproductive Health Guidelines.
2. Korle Bu Teaching Hospital – OBGYN Dept (2022). Fibroid Management Annual Report.
3. University of Ghana Medical School (2020). Understanding Uterine Fibroids in Ghanaian Women.
4. Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana (2021). Public Education on Herbal Claims.
5. Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (2023). Gynecological Surgical Outcomes Report.
6. 37 Military Hospital (2022). Fibroid Surgery Cost Estimate Summary.