One in three women experiences menstrual problems due to conditions such as endometriosis, fibroids, or scarring in the uterus. Nevertheless, it often takes 8 to 11 years before they receive a clear diagnosis, and targeted treatments are lacking. The FEMCURE project, led by Professor of Gynaecology Judith Huirne, aims to drastically shorten the time to effective treatment. Researchers will develop self-tests that allow women to assess their symptoms at home. In addition, methods will be devised to help general practitioners and gynaecologists recognize these conditions more quickly. The researchers are also developing targeted therapies, ensuring that each woman receives the treatment most effective for her.

Menstrual disorders are common but usually recognized late. This leads to pain, uncertainty, and absence from work, with significant consequences. Judith Huirne of Amsterdam UMC: “Every year, more than 5 billion euros are lost due to sick leave and healthcare costs. Moreover, it is crucial to prevent irreversible damage caused by the progression of these conditions. There is an urgent need for improvement. We want to shorten the waiting time for diagnosis and offer more women appropriate treatment. This will enhance women’s well-being and ensure their contribution to society is not lost. The time to act together is now,” says Huirne.

Advanced imaging techniques

Researchers within FEMCURE will develop a diagnostic system in which women can first test their symptoms at home using self-tests and a mobile app. The project will also investigate whether and how general practitioners can recognize menstrual disorders more quickly through AI-supported ultrasound. In hospitals, advanced imaging techniques such as contrast-enhanced ultrasound will become available. These techniques provide much more information about the uterus than current methods, enabling healthcare providers to better detect abnormalities and determine which treatment is most appropriate.

Targeted and personalized treatment

Currently, women are usually treated with hormones, painkillers, or hysterectomy, but these often do not address the underlying cause and are not compatible with a possible desire to have children. FEMCURE is working on (non-hormonal) medications that target the underlying disease mechanisms, such as abnormal blood flow and new vessel formation. The project also focuses on local administration of medication to reduce side effects. Based on data from imaging, biomarkers, and the app, AI can be used to predict which treatment will be most effective for each individual woman.

Improving women’s healthcare

FEMCURE brings together Amsterdam UMC, Radboud UMC, TU Eindhoven, TNO, Voices for Women, Women Inc., and companies in a broad network. This combination of medical expertise, technology, and patient involvement offers new opportunities to improve women’s healthcare. This is necessary not only for women as a group but for society.

Image: Adobe Stock