An assertion that sexual abstinence causes fibroids in women is false, according to health specialists who spoke to AFC.
Verification Brief:
A rumor circulating in Bangui and its surroundings suggests that “sexual abstinence causes fibroids in women.” However, after fact-checking with health specialists and gathering testimony from a woman, this claim is proven to be false.
Detailed Verification:
“It is not true; fibroids or myomas do not result from a woman abstaining from sexual activity for a period of time. There is no link,” explains Norbert Richard Ngbale, an obstetrician-gynecologist at the community and hospital clinic in Bangui. “The factors that may lead to the development of fibroids or myomas in women are found in those over 30 who do not yet have children, those with fewer pregnancies, women with obesity, and there is also a family history component,” he concludes.
Dr. Kosh-Komba Jess-ELIO, a general practitioner, oncologist, and pediatrician at the pediatric university hospital center, also rejects this rumor: “On the contrary, long-term sexual abstinence in a woman has no adverse effects; it actually helps her maintain her strength, except for those who have no children or fewer children and who experience myoma or fibroid issues.”
Similarly, Hélène Mbita, who has experienced abstinence, testifies: “I abstained for 8 years after the death of my husband and decided not to remarry, but I have no health issues.”
According to the Journal des Femmes Santé, no physical consequences have been noted in women except psychological ones. Indeed, both men and women experience a decrease in libido, increased stress, and elevated blood pressure with abstinence.
It is important to note that major causes of fibroids include the formation of soft tissue inside the uterus due to a lack of pregnancies in women over 30, those with fewer pregnancies, and those with obesity. According to health specialists, abstinence does not cause conditions such as fibroids; thus, this rumor is false.
By Princia Florence Yalla / AFC
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