CO-RELATION OF ENDOMETRIOSIS WITH PSYCHOSOCIAL WELL-BEING AND COMORBIDITIES–AN OVERLOOKED SITUATION

Abstract

Endometriosis is a persistent disease fueled by estrogen that leads to chronic inflammation and affects roughly 15 to 20% of women experiencing infertility worldwide. In Pakistan, however, the condition is frequently overlooked because of social stigma, misconceptions about its symptoms, and widespread ignorance. This investigation aimed to explore the social and emotional burdens borne by women living with the disease, their understanding of it, and their adherence to management plans. We circulated a questionnaire to 20 women with verified diagnoses and compared their answers to those of 30 women without the disease. The results were revealing: only 30% of the patients had come across the term “endometriosis” before receiving their diagnosis. The emotional toll was striking: 65% reported feelings of stigma and psychological strain, 75% were navigating infertility, and 65% confronted some form of family or social prohibition. Notably, the unmarried women reported infertility at a higher rate (83.3%) compared to their married counterparts (62.5%). Although 80% of the patients expressed a preference for medical management, a quarter had not approached a healthcare provider at all. Emerging evidence indicates that exposure to endocrine-disrupting environmental chemicals—such as parabens and bisphenol A—together with certain genetic susceptibilities, may contribute to the disease’s onset.The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis is also impacted by the inflammatory response linked to chronic pain, which results in increased levels of cytokines like TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-8. This may account for the increased incidence of anxiety and depression in patients. In order to decrease diagnostic delays and enhance the quality of life for women with endometriosis, this study emphasizes the necessity of a multidisciplinary approach to diagnosis and management in addition to greater public awareness.