The experiences of women diagnosed with uterine fibroids in the Kingdom of Eswatini

Abstract

Background: Uterine fibroids (UFs) are benign uterine growths that significantly impact women’s daily activities, quality of life, fertility and expenditure.

Aim: This study aimed to provide in-depth insights into the lived experiences of women diagnosed with UFs.

Setting: The study was conducted in Eswatini health facilities across the four geographic regions.

Methods: An explorative qualitative design was used; participants with confirmed UFs diagnoses or surgery related to UFs were purposively recruited for focus group discussions. Data collection was guided by the revised Wilson and Cleary model of health-related quality of life (HRQOL), which was iteratively analysed using Braun and Clark’s thematic analysis framework.

Results: Sixty participants with confirmed UFs diagnoses or surgery related to UFs were included in this study. Five themes emerged: awareness of the disease, symptoms experienced, treatment and care, perceptions and beliefs and health-seeking behaviour. Most participants experienced physical symptoms, abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding. Among the emotional and psychological consequences experienced by the majority of participants were fear, worry, tension and (perceived) disrupted body image. The majority of the participants lacked knowledge of UFs, and their perceptions and health-seeking behaviour differed.

Conclusion: Findings showed that most participants experienced physical, psychological, emotional and social challenges.

Contribution: These experiences were influenced by lack of knowledge, symptoms experienced, poor treatment and care and perceptions and beliefs about UFs. Health education, client involvement, early diagnosis and effective treatment are recommended to improve the experiences of UFs.