Endometriosis

Endometriosis can have a long timeline from onset of symptoms to diagnosis, and in later stages it can affect organs other than the uterus, explained Soyini Hawkins, MD, gynecologist at Fibroid and Pelvic Wellness Center of Georgia.

Since endometriosis is a chronic disease, treating it cannot be approached with a “one-and-done” mentality, said Soyini Hawkins, MD, gynecologist at Fibroid and Pelvic Wellness Center of Georgia.

There are good treatment options now for women suffering from pain as a result of their endometriosis, although it can sometimes be difficult to get women to even acknowledge their pain is unusual, said Robin Kroll, MD, medical director, Seattle Clinical Research Center.

Women with endometriosis may experience a delay in optimal care due to a variety of reasons including cultural beliefs, prior authorization hurdles, and more, explained Robin Kroll, MD, medical director, Seattle Clinical Research Center

Endometriosis is a very common disease across ethnic groups and the economic burden can be substantial for women, said Ayman Al-Hendy, MD, professor of obstetrics and gynecology at the University of Chicago Medicine.

The newest treatment option for endometriosis has benefits over the previous ones available, but there remains a need for a fertility-friendly option, said Ayman Al-Hendy, MD, professor of obstetrics and gynecology at the University of Chicago Medicine.

Women of color have a longer journey to diagnosis for endometriosis and uterine fibroids, have fewer resources to access care, and receive different treatments than White women, said Linda D. Bradley, MD, of Cleveland Clinic.

Optimal care that should be offered to all patients includes not only pain relief but also a complete pelvic exam and a discussion about the many options that are available for fibroids and endometriosis, including minimally invasive, organ-conserving surgery, said Linda D. Bradley, MD, professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic.

It's not normal to be in so much pain that you miss work several times a month and there are more things payers can do, said Linda D. Bradley, MD, professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic.