Planning Life Around Endo: The Impact of Endometriosis on Relationships

Abstract

Approximately 10% of women have the condition of endometriosis, which is a female reproductive disorder where the tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside of the uterus. Women living with endometriosis may experience limited or no symptoms, or debilitating symptoms such as pain that limits their ability to function and disrupts their academic, career, social, family, and intimate lives. Through interviewing women with endometriosis, this qualitative study explores their perceptions of the condition's impact on their relationships and sense of belonging. The findings identified the following five themes: (1) impact on daily life, (2) impact on school, work, career, and finances, (3) impact on relationships, (4) impact on sexuality, and (5) impact on family planning. Through understanding the influence of endometriosis on women diagnosed with the condition and their friends, families, and loved ones, implications for counseling practice and future research will be considered.