Psychological Distress and Quality of Life in Women With Endometriosis: A Narrative Review of Therapeutic Approaches and Challenges

Abstract

The chronic gynecological disorder endometriosis is a debilitating condition for women’s physical and psychological health. Endometriosis is a disease that causes endometrial-like tissue to grow outside the uterus and causes debilitating symptoms, including chronic pain, fatigue, and infertility. Women with endometriosis often suffer from psychological distress, especially anxiety, depression, and social isolation, which aggravates the whole burden. The purpose of this review was to review the psychological impact of endometriosis and its influence on quality of life (QoL) and examine the relationship between physical symptomatology and mental health. It also discusses current therapeutic approaches: medical treatment, psychological interventions, and complementary therapies, and problems of delayed diagnosis, poor multidisciplinary care, and stigma. An integrated care model combining physical and psychological support is required as concluded from the review. Recommendations for future research are made, specifically in the areas of personalized care strategies and improving healthcare access to improve outcomes for women with endometriosis.