ABUJA, Nigeria – Nollywood actress and filmmaker Etinosa Idemudia has revealed that years of living with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and enduring relentless body-shaming influenced her decision to undergo cosmetic surgery.
Speaking on Instagram on Sunday, the actress said her choice was not about vanity but about reclaiming confidence. “I have been constantly bullied and ridiculed over my stomach. My weight gain is largely the result of PCOS, though many do not know this,” she wrote. “We must show kindness, as everyone is fighting a battle.”
PCOS, a hormonal disorder, often causes weight gain, infertility, and other complications.
Idemudia said the condition not only affected her health but also her career in an industry where physical appearance is scrutinised.
“Looking good is part of the job,” she explained. “I wanted to look my age, but excess fat made me appear older.”
After researching several clinics, she chose a Lagos-based facility where she felt safe. “Heritage Hospital reassured me. Their doctors addressed all my concerns, and for the first time, I felt I could trust a clinic,” she said.
Her openness has sparked conversations about women’s health in Nigeria, where PCOS and cosmetic surgery are often stigmatised. Fans praised her honesty, saying it may inspire others facing similar struggles.