Health-related quality of life (Nottingham Health Profile) in patients with endometriomas: Correlation with clinical variables and self-reported limitations

Abstract

Introduction: Endometriosis is a chronic disease that involves the development of endometrium outside the uterine cavity with pain component predominance. The aim of the study was to discuss the occurrence of health problems in patients with endometriomas and simple cysts and the effect of these problems on the daily functioning of the patients. Material and methods: The study included patients (n = 40) treated laparoscopically and/or by laparotomy due to lesions in the form of endometriomas or simple cysts. The control group (n = 36) consisted of healthy patients of the Gynecological Clinic, with no changes in adnexa confirmed in vaginal ultrasound examination. The original authors' questionnaire and the Nottingham Health Profile Questionnaire (NHP) were used as research tools. Results: Analysis of the correlation with Spearman's test demonstrated a statistically significant relationship between the size of the tumor and the occurrence of sleep disorders only in the group of women suffering from endometriomas (r = -0.348; p = 0.041). Women with endometriomas significantly more often reported problems (Cramer's V) in the sphere of “paid work” (p < 0.001), “housework” (p < 0.001), in social life (p < 0.001), problems in sexual life (p < 0.001) as well as problems in continuing hobbies (p < 0.001) and in spending free time (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Since the stage of endometriosis does not correlate with subjective complaints, it seems that an additional routine evaluation of quality of life, including an assessment of the severity of the disease, is warranted. Routine use of the Nottingham Health Profile Questionnaire in patients with endometriosis can improve also the assessment of the treatment.