Understanding Uterine Fibroids: Expert Insights from Dr. Wynand van Tonder

Uterine fibroids - a common condition affecting women worldwide, yet many know little about these benign growths that can significantly impact quality of life. Recently, fertility specialist Dr. Waynand van Tonder shared valuable information about fibroids, their symptoms, and treatment options on Sakhisizwe Building the nation Bou die nasie.

Fibroids are benign growths that develop from the smooth muscle and fibrous tissue of the uterus. According to Dr. van Tonder, they affect approximately 25% of women, with the incidence increasing to 40-45% by age 40. While primarily a genetic condition, environmental factors can play a significant role in their development.

"It's more common in women with high estrogenic diets," explains Dr. van Tonder. He notes that modern food production methods, including hormones given to plants and animals and chemicals in plastic containers, contribute to increased oestrogen exposure, which stimulates fibroid growth.

Many women have fibroids without experiencing symptoms, but the most common warning signs include:

Progressively worsening menstrual pain

Heavy menstrual bleeding

Infertility

Pressure on surrounding organs (bladder, rectum, ureters)

Palpable lumps in the lower abdomen

"Fibroid-related pain with menstruation normally gets worse and heavier as the years go on," says Dr. van Tonder. He emphasizes that worsening period pain should never be ignored, as it could indicate fibroids or related conditions like endometriosis, which co-occurs with fibroids in about 70% of cases.

When women present with symptoms, doctors typically perform:

Clinical gynecological examination

Ultrasound to map the fibroids' size, location, and number of fibroids.

Dr. van Tonder describes a classification system that helps clinicians document fibroid location within the uterus, which guides treatment decisions. Not all fibroids require treatment - asymptomatic fibroids are often monitored rather than treated immediately.

For women experiencing symptoms, several treatment approaches are available:

Surgical Options:

Myomectomy - Removing fibroids while preserving the uterus

Can be performed laparoscopically (minimally invasive)

Through a Pfannenstiel incision (similar to a C-section cut)

Open surgery for very large fibroids.

Hysteroscopy - Using a scope inserted through the cervix to remove fibroids bulging into the uterine cavity.

Non-Surgical Interventions:

Uterine Artery Embolization - An interventional radiologist injects beads to block blood flow to fibroids (not recommended for women planning future pregnancies)

Ultrasonic Ablation - For fibroids larger than 5cm

Radiofrequency Ablation - A newer technique using a small needle to treat fibroids transvaginally.

 Recovery timeframes vary by procedure:

Open surgery: approximately 6 weeks

Laparoscopic surgery: about 2 weeks

Ablative procedures: less than a week

While Dr. van Tonder acknowledges these procedures can cause pain, he emphasizes that modern pain management is effective. More importantly, he notes that women who undergo treatment often experience significant relief after fibroid have been removed.

"You'll feel like a new life is starting for you," he says about post-treatment outcomes, as both bleeding and pain typically improve dramatically.

Dr. van Tonder stresses the importance of early intervention: "It's better to have it seen earlier than later because the later you go, the more severe the surgery is and more difficult it is."

Young women should have gynaecological check-ups every 2-3 years, with frequency increasing based on specific health concerns. For those with fibroids, regular monitoring helps track growth rates and determine the optimal timing for intervention.

Uterine fibroids, while common, shouldn't be ignored. With proper medical guidance and timely intervention, women can effectively manage this condition and maintain their reproductive health and quality of life.

If you're experiencing symptoms that might indicate fibroids, consult with your healthcare provider or a specialist in reproductive health. Early diagnosis can lead to simpler treatment options and better outcomes.

For further information, contact:

Social Media: Dr Wynand van Tonder

Website: www.drwynandvantonder.co.za

Hope fertility clinic

011 4634833

Click on the link below to listen to the interview: 

Presenter: Jasnine Roberts

Producer: Lydia M