Prevalence and Ultrasonographic Characteristics of Uterine Fibroids among Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in Two Healthcare Centres in the Niger Delta Region of Nigeria: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder characterized by menstrual dysfunction, hyperandrogenism and/or polycystic ovarian morphology. Uterine fibroids are benign gynaecological tumours, yet information on their coexistence with PCOS in Nigerian women is limited. This study assessed the prevalence and ultrasonographic characteristics of uterine fibroids among women with PCOS attending two healthcare centres in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria.Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted from 1 December 2024 to 31 November 2025 among women with PCOS who presented for ultrasonography and fertility evaluation at two healthcare centres. Women who provided informed consent were recruited. Data were collected using a questionnaire, while transvaginal ultrasonography was used to assess uterine and ovarian morphology and identify uterine fibroids. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25 and summarized using descriptive statistics.Results: The mean age was 32.37 ± 6.78 years, and 56% were aged ≥30 years. Nearly half (47%) had a normal body mass index, while 72% were nulliparous. Menstrual dysfunction was common, with oligomenorrhoea reported in 53% and amenorrhoea in 19%. Uterine fibroids were detected in 16% of participants, while 84% had no fibroids. Among participants with fibroids, intramural fibroids were most common (44.4%), followed by subserosal (27.0%), submucosal (11.0%) and pedunculated (5.6%) fibroids. Some participants had fibroids in multiple locations.Conclusion: Uterine fibroids were present in 16% of women with PCOS, with intramural fibroids being the predominant ultrasonographic type. Larger studies are needed to clarify coexistence and significance of these conditions.