Clinical profile and management of uterine fibroids among reproductive-aged women in Haiti: A hospital-based cross sectional study

Title : Clinical profile and management of uterine fibroids among reproductive-aged women in Haiti: A hospital-based cross sectional study

Abstract:

Background: Uterine fibroids are the most common benign gynecological tumors among women of reproductive age and are associated with significant morbidity. Despite their high prevalence among black women, data from Haiti remain scarce.
Objective: To describe the clinical profile and management of uterine fibroids among reproductive-aged women at a Haitian referral hospital.
Methods: A descriptive and retrospective hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted at Hopital Sainte-Therese de Hinche. Medical records from January 1, 2021 to December 31, 2022 were reviewed, and women aged 15-49 years with ultrasound-confirmed uterine fibroids were included. Data were extracted from gynecology outpatient, surgical and hospitalization registers. Variables included demographic characteristics, clinical presentation, obstetric history, imaging findings, complications, and management patterns.
Results: Among 140 identified cases, 80 medical records met inclusion criteria and were analyzed. The mean age was 37.4 years, with the highest proportion of cases occurred in women aged 30-39 years (49%). The most common presenting symptom was hypogastric pain (60%), followed by abnormal uterine bleeding (31.3%). Complications were documented in 38% of patients, predominantly hemorrhagic (83% of complications). Intramural fibroids were the most frequent subtype (60%), and 65% of patients had multiple fibroids. Most tumors measured 5-10 cm (45%). Surgical management was performed in 79% of cases, with hysterectomy accounting for 63% of surgical procedures.
Conclusion: Uterine fibroids represent a significant clinical burden and public health concern among reproductive-aged women at this Haitian referral hospital, with a high rate of surgical intervention and hysterectomy. These findings highlight the importance of early detection strategies and expanded therapeutic options in resource-constrained settings. In the context of limited diagnostic documentation and therapeutic alternatives, strengthening medical record systems may contribute to improving patient management and outcomes.
Key words: uterine fibroids, leiomyomas, reproductive-aged women, cross-sectional study, Haiti

Biography:

Dr. Sworly W. GEFFRARD is a recent medical graduate of the University Notre Dame of Haiti with a strong interest in Gynecology and Obstetrics. Passionate about improving women’s health and maternal care, he is committed to serving underserved communities in Haiti. He volunteers at a Communal Health Center and is actively involved in the Population Committee, organizing community health fairs that promote reproductive health education, preventive care, and maternal health awareness. He aims to pursue specialization in Obstetrics and Gynecology while contributing to improved access to quality healthcare in low-resource settings.