Embattled Empowerment: A qualitative investigation of mental health and psycho-social wellbeing after a diagnosis of endometriosis

Endometriosis is a life-altering condition and whilst much of the research has focused on the severity and management of symptoms, treatment options, and the broad impact on perceived quality-of-life, there remains a gap in understanding the condition and obtaining a diagnosis from a mental health perspective. The present study aimed to explore the impact of endometriosis on women’s mental health and psycho-social wellbeing. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 18 women and analysed through a Grounded Theory approach. The analysis generated the theory ‘Embattled Empowerment’ which focused on a necessary sense of self-advocacy women discussed throughout interviews and emerged from four inter-related themes: ‘Fighting a Battle in Isolation’, ‘Shadows of Fear, Glimmers of Hope’, ‘Compelled into Being My Own Advocate’, and ‘Caution, Candour, but Not Conflation’. The theory ‘Embattled Empowerment’ portrays a sense of self-advocacy which seemed necessary as women navigated challenges posed by endometriosis, often stemming from the physical impact of the condition as well as the emotional toll it caused. These discussions underscored the need for a more holistic approach to women’s healthcare, as it seems crucial women are provided with psycho-social resources and the opportunity to address emotional wellbeing during every healthcare touchpoint.