Exploring Perceived Risks and Fear of Complications Among Women with Uterine Fibroid Disease in Cross River State, Nigeria

Fibroid disease is undoubtedly one of the major diseases suffered by women of reproductive age. The risk associated with the disease is severe for women and the foetus. Guided by the assumptions of the Cognitive Appraisal Theory and Health Belief Model, the study set out to explore aspects of perceived risks and fear of complications among women diagnosed with uterine fibroid disease (UFD) in Cross River State, Nigeria. It used the descriptive survey research design combine with desk review and in-depth interview to collect data from eighty-eight (88) respondents selected through a multiple sampling procedure. The ages of the respondents ranged from 25-54 years with a mean age of 41 (SD± 5). Responses from the in-depth interview sessions were analysed thematically, findings revealed that, fear of surgery, concerns about infertility, financial burden, social stigma, mistrust of healthcare providers, and the psychological effect of living with uterine fibroids all contribute in shaping the health-seeking behaviours and treatment decisions of women diagnosed with uterine fibroid disease in the study area. Improving access to affordable healthcare, provision of psychological support interventions and public health campaigns that educate women about fibroids, treatment options, and the importance of early intervention were recommended for improving quality of life outcomes, empowered health-seeking behaviours and reducing the burden of this condition in Cross River State, Nigeria and similar contexts.