South Africa: Young Women in North West Live With Fibroid Pain As They Wait for Treatment for More Than a Year

A 25-year-old woman from North West, South Africa, named Tiisetso Lekgetho, has been enduring severe menstrual pain due to uterine fibroids. The fibroids cause her to miss work for two to three days each month, and the heavy bleeding has taken a toll on her physical and mental well-being. Lekgetho has been waiting for surgery since last year, with her operation now scheduled for November 11th.

Fibroids are non-cancerous growths that can lead to heavy bleeding, abdominal pain, and bladder issues. A 2024 study in Eswatini found that women with fibroids experience physical, psychological, emotional, and social challenges, including missed work and social activities. Some women also face delayed diagnosis and surgery.

Lekgetho first visited her local clinic in October 2025, where she was referred to Bophelong Provincial Hospital. She was diagnosed with fibroids in November, and placed on a waiting list for a myomectomy, a procedure to remove the fibroids. Despite returning to the hospital in February, she was told she would have to wait another three months. Her surgery is now slated for November 11th, but she has not been tested for anemia, despite experiencing heavy bleeding and fatigue.

The North West Department of Health has faced challenges, including staff shortages and cancelled operations, which have contributed to long waiting times for surgical procedures. Despite the pain medication provided by the clinic, Lekgetho has turned to traditional remedies, including a liquid concoction and "womb tea," to alleviate her symptoms. She remains hopeful for her upcoming surgery while coping with the ongoing challenges posed by her condition.