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)