 |
| Image: Google |
Oscar-winning actress Lupita Nyong’o has spoken openly about her ongoing struggle with uterine fibroids, disclosing that the condition has returned and one of the growths is now as large as an orange.
During an interview on NBC’s Today Show, the 42-year-old actress revisited her health journey, calling for more awareness, improved treatment options, and stronger advocacy for women’s reproductive health.
Nyong’o revealed that she was first diagnosed with fibroids in 2014 — the same year she won her Academy Award — describing the period as emotionally overwhelming.
“Back in 2014, I won an Academy Award. And in that same year, I was diagnosed with fibroids. I was experiencing high high and low low at the same time,” she said.
She explained that the diagnosis came with intense physical pain and emotional distress.
“I had heavy bleeding. I had pelvic pain, among other symptoms. I asked my doctor what caused them, but he did not really give me an answer,” she added, noting that the experience “caused me shame and loneliness.”
Shortly after her diagnosis, the actress underwent surgery to remove the fibroids, but doctors warned her that recurrence was likely.
“I asked what I could do to treat them. All I was offered was surgery or pain. I chose surgery,” she said.
However, years later, the fibroids returned in greater numbers.
“I asked my doctor what can I do to make sure they do not come back, and he said it only a matter of time. And then I learnt that 80% of women have fibroids by the age of 50.
“Now, 12 years later, I have my fibroids again. I have doubled the amount of fibroids. And I am still been offered the same option, surgery or live with the pain,” Nyong’o revealed.
She further explained that doctors often use fruit comparisons to describe fibroid sizes.
“Doctors usually use fruits to help a woman understand the size of her fibroids. Mine was the largest. The size of an orange.
“… the first time I got the fibroids taken out, they took out 23. And this time, I’ve been informed two years ago that I have over 50,” she said.
Nyong’o has continued to use her platform to raise awareness and push for improved healthcare solutions for women living with fibroids.
Watch her speak below…
#LupitaNyongo
#NollywoodTimes
#Fibroid
No comments:
Post a Comment