
Oscar-winning actress Lupita Nyong’o has revealed that she is currently battling uterine fibroids again, years after undergoing surgery to remove dozens of the growths.
Speaking in an interview with Today, Nyong’o said she was first diagnosed with fibroids in 2014, the same year she won an Academy Award, describing the experience as emotionally conflicting.
She said the condition caused heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, and significant physical discomfort, forcing her to undergo a surgical procedure known as a myomectomy to remove about 30 fibroids at the time.
More than a decade later, Nyong’o said the fibroids have returned and increased significantly, with over 50 now present, causing renewed pain and concern about her reproductive health.
She explained that she is hesitant to undergo another myomectomy due to its invasive nature and potential risks to reproductive organs. Instead, she is advocating for more treatment options beyond surgery or living with the condition.

Nyong’o said doctors often use fruit comparisons to help patients understand fibroid size, noting that her largest fibroid was once described as being the size of an orange.
The actress said the condition made her feel isolated and fearful, adding that the lack of clear answers about its cause and treatment options highlights the need for more medical research and innovation.
She urged women facing similar diagnoses to seek multiple medical opinions and carefully consider treatment options rather than immediately opting for major surgical procedures such as hysterectomy.
Nyong’o said she hopes increased awareness will encourage more open conversations about fibroids and push for improved treatment solutions for women worldwide.
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