Anikeade Funke Treasure, a veteran broadcaster, media trainer, and podcast host, has called for greater awareness around fibroids and menstruation, describing them as “unspoken struggles” many women endure in silence.
She made this known while featuring on Eve’s Lounge, a women-focused radio programme in Ibadan, Oyo State, hosted by Damilola Amoo and co-hosted by Florence Ojaniyi.
Speaking on the struggles associated with heavy menstrual flow and fibroid symptoms, Treasure emphasized that many women suffer in silence due to societal stigma, lack of awareness, or misinformation.
“Some women have been bleeding since age 12 and are still dealing with it in their 50s,” she said. “Some bleed so heavily they soak through clothing within the hour, yet are expected to be productive at work. It’s a serious issue.”
Treasure advocated for menstrual leave, especially for women with fibroids, arguing that workplaces should show more empathy and flexibility.
“This is a national development issue,” she stressed. “Menstruation affects productivity, mental health, and even family life. We need male allies who understand these realities.”
She addressed misconceptions about fibroids and fertility, noting that fibroids affect women differently.
“I have friends with large, lumpy fibroids who still got pregnant and had healthy babies. For others, fibroids may affect conception or cause discomfort during pregnancy,” she explained.
“That’s why I always say: visit your gynecologist early. Don’t wait until things get bad.”
Treasure also recommended HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) as a non-invasive treatment for fibroids but cautioned that it only works in specific cases.
“HIFU works best when fibroids are detected early, and it also depends on your body shape and size. But please, don’t rely on hearsay. Get a proper diagnosis,” she said.
She warned against generalizing treatment based on hearsay and stressed the importance of personalized medical advice.
“Every woman’s body is different. What works for one may not work for another. Be informed. Be proactive.”
Treasure concluded by encouraging continuous conversations around reproductive health and body autonomy, especially for women.
“Periods don’t disqualify women from leadership or success. Ignorance does. We need to normalize these conversations.”
