Women in the Federal Capital Territory can now treat fibroids without undergoing surgery, medical experts have said, as a non-invasive method called High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) records promising results.
At a press briefing in Abuja on Monday, specialists from Nordica Fertility Centre explained that the procedure uses focused sound waves to shrink or destroy fibroids without cutting the body. Patients are usually discharged within hours and return to normal activities within days.
Consultant gynecologist, Dr. Bakut, said over 100 women had undergone the treatment in Abuja since it was introduced last year. “We have not had any blood transfusions or serious complications. Most women recover within a week and report an improved quality of life,” he said.
Dr. Abayomi Ajayi, founder of the centre, emphasized the safety of the method. “The technology does not use radiation or lasers. The sound waves target the fibroids directly, and the body gradually removes the dead tissue naturally,” he said.
Experts also advised patients on lifestyle measures to improve treatment outcomes. “We counsel women to reduce soy products, certain dairy items, and alcohol, while taking more green vegetables and vitamin D. Some supplements, especially those containing estrogen, can affect results,” Dr. Ajayi added.
The doctors highlighted ongoing research on HIFU, noting that global studies and clinical experience show it does not affect fertility. “Even women who want to conceive after treatment have successfully gotten pregnant,” Dr. Bakut said.
While results are promising, high costs limit access for many Nigerian women. Dr. Ajayi called for government support and health insurance coverage to make the treatment more widely available. “We are heavily subsidising the procedure, but only government action can extend this benefit to more people,” he said.
Fibroids are non-cancerous growths in or around the womb that can cause pain, heavy bleeding, and infertility. Many women in Nigeria still rely on surgery or unverified remedies, sometimes with fatal consequences. Experts believe awareness of HIFU could save lives and reduce complications from traditional surgery.