Silent growths within: When large internal masses go unnoticed in women

Slow-growing abnormalities often go unnoticed for years, masked as mild discomfort, heavy periods or digestive problems. [Courtesy]

In Kenya, many women live with silent internal growths — fibroids, ovarian cysts and other masses — without realising the potential impact on their health and fertility. These slow-growing abnormalities often go unnoticed for years, masked as mild discomfort, heavy periods or digestive problems. By the time they are detected, they may already have disrupted fertility, compressed vital organs, or caused significant emotional and psychological strain.

Dr Hiba Tahjiud, a consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist at Reliance Hospital in Nairobi says one question frequently arises: under what circumstances can a woman live for years with a large internal mass without obvious symptoms?