Psychosocial impact of endometriosis: From co-morbidity to intervention

Abstract

Endometriosis-associated pelvic pain is a major health concern in women of childbearing age. Controlled studies have shown that endometriosis can adversely affect women and their partners' general psychological well-being, relationship adjustment and overall quality of life. Furthermore, women with endometriosis report significantly more sexual dysfunctions compared to healthy women. Empirical studies indicate that specific psychosocial factors may modulate pain experience, pain-related distress and treatment outcome. Research on psychosexual interventions in endometriosis treatment is limited but shows to be effective in reducing endometriosis-related pain and associated psychosexual outcomes. An individualized, couple-centered, multimodal approach to care, integrating psychosexual and medical management for endometriosis, is thought to be optimal.

Keywords: Chronic genital pain; Endometriosis; Multidisciplinary approach; Psychosocial function; Sexual dysfunctions.