Learning to live with endometriosis: Findings from a phenomenological study among women in Mauritius, a state in the Indian Ocean

Abstract

IntroductionEndometriosis which affects a woman’s life in many aspects remains an indecipherable condition which has been unexplored among non-Caucasian populations. This study was thus undertaken in Mauritius, which is a country belonging to the World Health Organization African Region. Its objectives were to explore the experience of women having endometriosis and to describe the essence of living with endometriosis. MethodsThis qualitative research with phenomenological approach was undertaken among Mauritian women with endometriosis. Data was collected by means of interviews until saturation point and was processed using Thematic Analysis method to identify patterns. The Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Studies was used to ensure comprehensive reporting of the interviews undertaken. Ethical approval was obtained from the relevant institutional research ethics committee. FindingsThe participants were aged between 26 and 44. The following themes were identified: (1) Making sense of the condition, (2) Embracing the uncertainties of life, (3) Experimenting prescribed medications and (4) Learning to live with the disease. ConclusionsThis study delineates the difficult journey, from stranded pain-suffering women with undiagnosed condition to diagnosed patient taking control over the disease. They experienced a long and difficult period in relation with the delayed diagnosis by health professionals of their condition. This study thus highlights the need for training programs to empower health professionals for timely diagnosis, effective management and compassionate support.