Medical experts have urged doctors to prioritise women’s fertility, psychological well-being and quality of life when treating uterine fibroids, warning against approaches that focus solely on removing or reducing the growths.
The call was made by Dr Abayomi Ajayi, founder and chief executive officer of Nordica Fibroid Care Centre, who stressed that fibroid treatment should take into account the physical, emotional and reproductive challenges experienced by affected women.
Ajayi spoke as the centre marked a milestone of 1,000 high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) treatments for women living with fibroids, using the occasion to advocate more personalised care and wider access to non-surgical treatment options. <Cite refs={[“turn378305search0”]}/>
According to him, fibroids can affect far more than a woman’s physical health. Heavy menstrual bleeding, pain and fertility concerns can also contribute to anxiety, reduced self-confidence, strained relationships and disruptions to work and daily activities.
He noted that some women suffer in silence because of embarrassment or the belief that their symptoms are normal, making awareness and timely medical attention particularly important.
Ajayi emphasised that doctors should consider each patient’s reproductive plans before recommending treatment, particularly where a woman hopes to have children in the future.
He explained that traditional surgical procedures, including myomectomy and hysterectomy, have long featured in fibroid management, but treatment decisions must be guided by the patient’s condition, medical needs and personal circumstances.
The specialist highlighted high-intensity focused ultrasound as an alternative for suitable patients. The technology uses focused ultrasound energy to destroy targeted fibroid tissue without surgical incisions, allowing the treated growths to shrink gradually.
However, he noted that HIFU is not appropriate for every patient, as eligibility depends on factors such as the size, location and characteristics of the fibroids.
Ajayi also disclosed that the centre had incorporated psychological support into care for some patients, recognising the emotional burden associated with the condition.
He called for stronger collaboration among healthcare professionals and improved access to modern treatment options, expressing hope that more centres across Africa would adopt non-invasive approaches where clinically appropriate.
The milestone, he said, should serve as an opportunity to expand access to treatment and improve the overall experience of women living with fibroids.
The appeal reinforces the need for comprehensive fibroid care that considers not only clinical outcomes but also fertility goals, mental health and the patient’s quality of life.
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