Endometriosis Is Prevalent, Yet Women Endure It Instead Of Accessing Healthcare

Most of us run to the hospitals when periods are irregular, but hardly anyone finds heavy bleeding, extreme pain, or unbearable cramps problematic. Periods bring pain and having to endure is so ingrained in us that neither we question the pain nor seek medical health. Heavy bleeding could be one of the possible symptoms of endometriosis, which goes unattended. 

Endometriosis is basically a serious condition that occurs in the female reproductive organ. The tissue that lines the inside of the uterus (endometrial tissue) grows outside of the uterus in areas like the pelvis and fallopian tubes, causing intense pain and heavy menstrual bleeding.

Endometriosis in South Asian

During periods, extreme pain for about two to three days a month is possible in such a condition. There is a high prevalence of moderate-to-severe endometriosis among South Asians. Research has provided valid evidence for it. A research study indicates that 247 million women globally are affected by endometriosis, among them 42 million women are in India. For Pakistan, endometriosis is common as the flu, such a condition is most underestimated issue among women.

1 in 10 women is affected by endometriosis in Sri Lanka, where the female population is 11.20 million. Another study suggests that Asian women appear to have a higher endometriosis prevalence than Caucasians and African Americans. One of the studies titled Incidence of endometriosis among Japanese women authored by K Miyazawa stated that Japanese women had the highest hospital admittance rate for endometriosis. 

Despite significant studies and constant proof of its prevalence and how it can impact adversely, women often do not get the diagnosis or access to healthcare. Currently, there is no permanent cure for endometriosis, even after years of research. However, it is important to get a diagnosis and treatment with available healthcare facilities.  

If endometriosis is left undiagnosed, can cause severe health issues or comorbidity. For instance- pelvic pain, infertility, dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, and body pain during physical activities like walking and exercising can occur. 

It can lead to bigger surgeries also. For example- Emma Hayes, a Chelsea manager had to undergo an emergency hysterectomy because of endometriosis. 

Endometriosis can also adversely affect the social and psychological health of the patients. The constant pain that a woman may endure during her daily activities and those associated with her, including her family and colleagues can affect her mental health, mood swings are prevalent. Moreover, it can cause women suffering from endometriosis inconvenience in public places. The work can also get affected, she may need to apply for frequent leaves, causing hindrance to her professional growth.

Endometriosis is not known by many, excessive bleeding is assumed good sign, and also a symbol of fertility. But this misconception is needed to change. The awareness around the illness is to be made so that women can have healthy periods, and know what changes they are going through. Instead of normalising period pain. 

Suggested Reading- Periods Are Culturally Stigmatised, Yet Why Do Women Follow Period Tradition