Activist Bahareh Hedayat Diagnosed with Uterine Cancer in Prison

Iranian human rights activist and political prisoner Bahareh Hedayat revealed that she has been diagnosed with uterine cancer.

Hedayat, who has been temporarily released from Evin prison for medical reasons, wrote on her Instagram account on March 15 that doctors discovered early-stage cancer cells in her uterus following a routine gynecological visit in November.

"Last November, during a short break from prison, I visited the gynecologist due to a minor issue," Hedayat wrote. "The doctor initially recommended a minor surgery, so minor that I almost didn't pursue it."

"Insisting on the procedure, my doctor and friends convinced me to seek permission from the prison authorities," she added. "I was looking for any excuse to delay the surgery until my release."

Hedayat underwent surgery in February after being transferred from Evin prison to the hospital.

However, a pathology report revealed the presence of cancerous cells, prompting doctors to recommend a hysterectomy.

"The suggested treatment is to remove my uterus," Hedayat wrote. "Everyone keeps saying it's no big deal, to just remove it and move on. But at 43, with my life on hold with a three to four-year prison sentence, it's difficult to talk about children."

"Having dreamt of having children since I was 17, this news is deeply saddening," she continued. "While I accept the medical necessity, it's a significant loss. This cancer is a cruel reminder of a permanent scar on my body and life."

Hedayat also said that her temporary release has been further suspended until March 28, with this period not counting as her jail time.