Pain symptoms, sexual and mental health at the time of endometriosis diagnosis

Abstract

Introduction: We aimed at examining the physical symptoms, sexual and mental health of individuals at the time of receiving the diagnosis of endometriosis. Our goal was to gain a better understanding of their needs at this specific time. Methods: Fifty cis women who had received the diagnosis of endometriosis within the last 4 weeks were examined in this cross-sectional study. Participants completed a comprehensive questionnaire and the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ). The Diagnostic Interview for Mental Disorders (DIPS) was performed for each subject for the assessment of mental disorders according to DSM-5 criteria and to screen for sexual dysfunctions. Results: Participants were M = 27.02 ± 5.72 years old. More than 90% reported dysmenorrhea (93.9%), one fifth chronic pelvic pain (22.0%) and more than three quarters painful sexual intercourse (84.0%). More than 40% met the criteria of a current mental disorder. 21 participants reported a sexual dysfunction (42.0%) and 21 reported childhood maltreatment (42.9%). A current mental disorder was associated with impaired sexual functioning: Participants with a current mental disorder reported higher pain intensity scores during sexual intercourse and were more likely to report a current sexual dysfunction. Conclusion: Our results highlight the need for earlier diagnoses of endometriosis to prevent the progression of pelvic pain and for integrating mental and sexual health support in endometriosis care from the beginning. A biopsychosocial model of mental health in endometriosis is proposed.