Endometriosis Management
- Endometriosis is a disease where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus, causing pain and/or infertility.
- Endometriosis affects roughly 10% (190 million) of reproductive-age women and girls globally.
- It is a chronic disease associated with severe, life-impacting pain during periods, sexual intercourse, bowel movements and/or urination, chronic pelvic pain, abdominal bloating, nausea, fatigue, and sometimes depression, anxiety, and infertility.
- The variable and broad symptoms of endometriosis mean that healthcare workers do not easily diagnose it and many individuals suffering from it have limited awareness of the condition. This can cause a lengthy delay between the onset of symptoms and diagnosis.
- At present, there is no known cure for endometriosis, and treatment is usually aimed at controlling symptoms.
- Access to early diagnosis and effective treatment of endometriosis is important but is limited in many settings, including in low- and middle-income countries.
- There is a need for more research and increased awareness to ensure effective prevention, early diagnosis, and improved management of the disease