By Kristy Fowler and Sara McCloskey

For about a year, Jennifer Evans, of Lunenburg, was experiencing pressure and discomfort due to uterine fibroids, also known as benign tumors, on her uterus. The pain was becoming unbearable, with every option she tried not working.

“I tried over-the-counter pain relievers and yoga, but nothing helped ease the pain,” Evans said.

She set up an appointment to see Kwadwo Baryeh, M.D., at VCU Health Community Memorial Hospital, to find a solution. Baryeh joined VCU Health Women's Health at South Hill last September and specializes in managing high-risk pregnancies and minimally invasive surgeries.

“[Evans'] tumors were probably not going to develop into a cancerous situation,” Baryeh said. “They hadn't caused any damage, so the main issue was the pain they were causing her.”
Baryeh recommended Evans have a hysterectomy, which is the surgical removal of a woman's uterus, to get rid of the tumors. The uterus is the part of the body where a baby grows when a person is pregnant. Evans agreed to have the procedure. She wasn't worried about not being able to have any more children as she had already given birth to two daughters and looks after six grandkids.

Jennifer Evans and Kwadwo Baryeh, M.D., in a follow up appointment after the successful operation. (VCU Enterprise Marketing and Communications)

Less scarring and quicker recovery for patients dealing with uterine conditions

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