*This article is the second part of a two-part series on uterine fibroids, adapted from the author’s Master of Public Health capstone research at Monroe University, New York.
WHAT CAN WOMEN DO DIFFERENTLY?
If prevention deserves a place in the conversation about fibroids, then one question naturally follows: What can women do differently?
While researchers continue to study exactly why fibroids develop, growing evidence suggests that some everyday lifestyle choices may influence their risk and progression. Although these choices cannot guarantee that a woman will never develop fibroids, they represent practical steps that support overall reproductive health.
THE VITAMIN D PUZZLE: WHY SUNSHINE ALONE ISN’T ENOUGH
One of the most significant findings from recent research concerns vitamin D.
For years, vitamin D has been associated mainly with healthy bones. However, scientists now understand that it also plays an important role in regulating cell growth, reducing inflammation, supporting immune function, and repairing body tissues. These processes have drawn attention because abnormal cell growth and inflammation are involved in the development of uterine fibroids.
Studies consistently show that women with low vitamin D levels are more likely to develop fibroids, and some clinical trials suggest that correcting vitamin D deficiency may help slow the growth of existing fibroids. Although vitamin D is not a cure, it remains one of the most promising modifiable factors identified so far.
Perhaps surprisingly, vitamin D deficiency is common among African women despite living in regions with abundant sunshine.
This is one of the biggest misconceptions surrounding vitamin D. Many people assume that because Nigeria enjoys sunshine almost all year round, deficiency should be rare. Unfortunately, that is not always the case.
The body produces vitamin D when sunlight reaches the skin. However, darker skin contains more melanin—the natural pigment that protects the skin from harmful ultraviolet rays. While this protection is beneficial, it also reduces the skin’s ability to produce vitamin D efficiently. As a result, people with darker skin generally require longer exposure to sunlight than those with lighter skin to produce the same amount of vitamin D.
Modern lifestyles also contribute to the problem. Many Nigerians now spend most of their day indoors—in offices, schools, hospitals, shops, factories, or working remotely. Even when outdoors, many people deliberately avoid direct sunlight because of the intense heat. Air pollution in large cities can further reduce the amount of ultraviolet light that reaches the skin, while clothing that covers most of the body for cultural, religious, or occupational reasons also limits vitamin D production.
Diet is another important factor. Only a limited number of foods naturally contain vitamin D, making it difficult for many people to obtain enough through food alone.
For these reasons, women should not assume they have adequate vitamin D simply because they live in a sunny country. Equally important, vitamin D supplements should not be taken indiscriminately. Because excessive intake can be harmful, supplementation should always be discussed with a qualified healthcare professional, particularly for women with symptoms or those considered at higher risk.
YOUR KITCHEN MAY BE ONE OF YOUR BEST DEFENCES
Beyond vitamin D, the food we eat may also influence fibroid risk.
Research suggests that diets rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, fish, and dairy products provide nutrients, antioxidants, and fibre that support hormonal balance and reduce inflammation. On the other hand, diets high in red meat, processed foods, and excessive alcohol consumption have been associated with an increased risk of fibroids in several studies.
The encouraging news is that healthy eating does not require expensive imported foods.
Many traditional Nigerian meals already contain ingredients that promote good health. Beans, leafy vegetables such as ugu and spinach, okra, garden eggs, sweet potatoes, whole grains, fresh fruits, and fish are nutritious foods that can easily form part of a balanced diet. Rather than abandoning local cuisine, the goal should be to prepare familiar foods in healthier ways while maintaining balance, variety, and moderation.
SMALL DAILY HABITS CAN MAKE A BIG DIFFERENCE
Healthy living extends beyond what is on the plate. Regular physical activity is consistently associated with a lower risk of fibroid development and better overall reproductive health. Exercise helps maintain a healthy body weight, supports hormone regulation, and reduces chronic inflammation. Importantly, staying active does not necessarily require a gym membership. Brisk walking, climbing stairs, dancing, cycling, farming, vigorous household chores, and other forms of regular movement all contribute to a healthier lifestyle.
Maintaining a healthy weight is equally important. Excess body fat increases estrogen production, creating conditions that may encourage fibroid growth. Likewise, chronic stress—although not a direct cause of fibroids—may contribute to poorer health outcomes and reduce quality of life. Prioritising adequate sleep, regular exercise, social support, relaxation, and other healthy coping strategies benefits both mental and physical wellbeing.
Researchers are also examining the possible role of environmental chemicals found in some plastics, pesticides, cosmetics, and industrial products that may interfere with hormone function. Although more studies are needed, reducing unnecessary exposure to these chemicals where possible remains a sensible public health recommendation.
BREAKING THE MYTHS THAT KEEP WOMEN SILENT
As scientific understanding grows, another challenge becomes increasingly clear: misinformation. Across Nigeria, many women continue to believe that fibroids result from spiritual attacks, curses, or witchcraft. Others accept heavy menstrual bleeding, severe menstrual pain, or persistent pelvic pressure as a normal part of womanhood. These misconceptions often delay diagnosis and treatment until fibroids become much larger and more difficult to manage.
Faith, culture, and community remain important sources of comfort and strength for many families. However, faith and medicine should work together—not against each other. Fibroids are a medical condition influenced by genetic, hormonal, environmental, and lifestyle factors, not a punishment or personal failure. Seeking medical care early does not diminish one’s faith; it increases the opportunity for timely diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and better health outcomes.
Women should be encouraged to seek medical evaluation whenever they experience unusually heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding, persistent pelvic pain or pressure, frequent urination, repeated pregnancy loss, or difficulty conceiving. Early assessment often provides more treatment options and may help prevent serious complications.
PREVENTION IS A SHARED RESPONSIBILITY
Ultimately, reducing the burden of uterine fibroids is a shared responsibility.
Healthcare professionals must continue educating women with accurate, evidence-based information. Government agencies should strengthen public health campaigns that promote reproductive health, healthy nutrition, physical activity, and early screening. Researchers must continue studying African populations to ensure future recommendations reflect local realities, while schools, religious institutions, community organisations, and the media all have important roles in creating safe spaces where women’s reproductive health can be discussed openly and without stigma.
A FUTURE WHERE FEWER WOMEN NEED SURGERY
For far too long, the conversation about fibroids has focused almost entirely on surgery. While medical treatment remains essential for many women, prevention deserves equal attention.
Nutrition, adequate vitamin D, regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, managing stress, and seeking timely medical care are not guaranteed solutions, nor do they replace professional treatment. They are, however, practical steps that support healthier lives and may help reduce the burden of fibroids.
As research continues to evolve, one message stands out above all others: empowering women with accurate information may be one of the most effective tools we have. By combining scientific evidence with public health education, Nigeria has an opportunity to move beyond simply treating fibroids to helping women protect their reproductive health long before surgery becomes necessary.
-Vivian Obi, MPH, is a public health researcher and graduate of Monroe University, New York.
Her work focuses on women’s health, epidemiology, nutrition, disease prevention, and health equity, particularly in African populations
