Endometriosis is a chronic gynecological condition that affects approximately 10% of women of reproductive age worldwide. That’s nearly 190 million people (World Health Organization [WHO], 2023). In Mexico, over seven million women live with this condition (Secretaría de Salud, 2022). Despite being common, endometriosis is often underestimated and diagnosed late, significantly impacting the quality of life for those who suffer from it.
The Challenge of Late Diagnosis
One of the biggest hurdles with endometriosis is the time it takes to get a diagnosis. On average, it can take between 7 and 10 years from the onset of symptoms to finally identifying the disease (Bulletti et al., 2021). This delay happens largely because severe menstrual pain is often normalized, and there’s limited awareness about the condition—even among healthcare professionals.
Symptoms include debilitating pain during menstruation, discomfort while urinating or having bowel movements, heavy bleeding, and painful intercourse (dyspareunia) (Mayo Clinic, 2023). Unfortunately, these signs are often dismissed or mistaken for regular menstrual cramps, delaying access to proper medical care.
Impact on Fertility and Quality of Life
Beyond chronic pain, endometriosis can also affect fertility. It’s estimated that 30% to 50% of women with this condition struggle to conceive (American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists [ACOG], 2022). Pelvic inflammation, adhesions, and blocked fallopian tubes can all make fertilization more difficult.
But the impact doesn’t stop there. Women with endometriosis also face higher rates of anxiety, depression, and chronic fatigue compared to the general population (Facer & Roman, 2021). In the workplace, frequent absences due to symptoms can affect financial stability and career growth.
Talking About Endometriosis: An Urgent Task
Despite its widespread impact, endometriosis remains underrecognized, and many women face barriers to timely diagnosis and treatment. In Mexico, the shortage of specialists and limited access to treatment worsen the problem (Secretaría de Salud, 2022).
Early detection is crucial, as is ensuring comprehensive care that includes gynecologists, fertility specialists, and psychological support. Education and awareness are also key. Learning to distinguish between normal menstrual pain and endometriosis symptoms can empower more women to seek medical help without fear of being dismissed.
A Call to Action
Endometriosis affects millions of women in Mexico and around the world. The lack of timely diagnosis and the downplaying of symptoms prolong the suffering of countless patients. It’s time to raise awareness about this condition, ensuring early diagnoses, effective treatments, and a holistic approach to care. At Clínica FI, we’re committed to women’s health and well-being. Our medical and emotional support provides the tools to face this journey with confidence and peace of mind.
Sources:
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). (2022). Endometriosis: Diagnosis and Treatment. Retrieved from https://www.acog.org
- Bulletti, C., Coccia, M. E., Battistoni, S., & Borini, A. (2021). Endometriosis and infertility. Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics, 38(4), 871-877.
- Facer, B. & Roman, H. (2021). Psychological impact of endometriosis: A review of the literature. European Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, 260, 25-30.
- Mayo Clinic. (2023). Endometriosis: Symptoms and Causes. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org
- World Health Organization (WHO). (2023). Endometriosis. Retrieved from https://www.who.int
- Secretaría de Salud. (2022). Endometriosis: Enfermedad que afecta a 7 millones de mujeres en México. Retrieved from https://www.gob.mx/salud
