Uterine fibroid is a common medical issue that affects several women around the world who are of childbearing age, especially black women. Fibroids, otherwise known as leiomyomas, are non-cancerous growths that develop in or around the womb (uterus).

Studies have shown that between 20 to 50 per cent of women of reproductive age have uterine fibroids and 77 per cent will develop fibroids during childbearing years.

The National Library of Medicine concurs that in Jamaica, uterine fibroids are the most common reason for major surgery in hospital gynaecology wards.

Many women develop uterine fibroids during their early years but are unaware that they have fibroids because they are oftentimes no signs or symptoms. For women who do experience symptoms, these generally include:

Fibroids warning signs:

• Heavy menstrual bleeding
• Menstrual periods lasting more than a week
• Pelvic pressure or pain
• Frequent urination
• Difficulty emptying the bladder
• Constipation
• Backache or leg pains
• Pain during sex
• A feeling of fullness in your lower abdomen or bloating