Endometriosis and its effects to mental health

EEndometriosis is a condition where cells similar to the lining of the womb start growing outside of it, like in the ovaries or fallopian tubes. During the menstrual cycle, these cells grow due to hormone production and break down and bleed. As this internal bleeding can cause inflammation, pain, and scar tissue, since the bleeding cannot leave the body and can lead to organs being stuck together. Normally, endometriosis affects organs like the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder, and colon but in some rare cases it can spread to other organs like the lungs, heart, and brain. Some common symptoms of endometriosis are pelvic pain, nausea, heavy periods, irregular bleeding, fatigue and infertility or difficulty getting pregnant.

How endometriosis affect mental health

Any chronic pain or illness has significant effects on the mental and physical health and endometriosis is a chronic condition. A survey conducted by BBC showed that a large percentage of women suffering from the condition had suicidal thoughts and reported being dependent on painkillers to ease the symptoms.

In addition, the majority of women stated that their condition significantly affected their relationships and career. Women suffering from the condition are more prevalent in developing mental health conditions like anxiety and depression.

Endometriosis has detrimental effects in the quality of life, due to the fact that the pain is intense that makes some people unable to work or even do simple everyday tasks. Living in constant pain is very challenging and majority of the time leads to isolation and loneliness, as it is difficult to socialise and make plans. Moreover, endometriosis is a condition that can take few year to be diagnosed.

Furthermore, since endometriosis is associated with menstruation, it can be difficult for women to discuss about what they are experiencing as they might feel uncomfortable or ashamed.

Consequently, due to these reasons, there is a reluctance to talk about the symptoms and pain that is experienced and also in seeking help from a professional. Leading many women to deal with the pain and symptoms by themselves and this can have serious consequences to someone’s mental wellbeing.

Many women with endometriosis suffer in silence and are reluctant or ashamed to talk about their symptoms or seek help from a professional. It is important to create awareness about the condition and its negative effects on people’s physical and mental health.

Those suffering with the condition need to be reminded that they are not alone and there are always people willing to support them. If you are diagnosed or you have symptoms of endometriosis, you can contact the helplines above and get the support you need.

Endometriosis UK

0808 808 2227

For emotional support:

The Samaritans

116 123

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