Patients and medical researchers are questioning the effectiveness of standard endometriosis treatment approaches. Natalie Greenwood, a 36-year-old teacher in West Yorkshire, has undergone three surgical procedures over 13 years to manage the condition, which causes chronic pelvic pain, fatigue, and cognitive difficulties. Despite the interventions, she reports only temporary relief followed by recurrent symptoms, requiring ongoing hormone treatments and pain management strategies.
A research study examined 147 women aged 18 to 66 with chronic pelvic pain and found that the dual approach of surgery and hormonal medication, commonly prescribed by the NHS, was associated with lower physical quality of life. Painkillers were linked to poorer physical, psychological, and environmental quality of life outcomes. In contrast, women who received psychological support as part of their treatment reported better overall quality of life.
Dr. Jasmine Hearn, a reader in health psychology at Manchester Metropolitan University who co-led the research, stated that current pain management strategies often leave patients struggling without adequate pain relief. The study’s findings suggest that psychological intervention should be offered to all those suffering from pelvic pain. This recommendation aligns with suggestions made in 2020 by Westminster’s all-party parliamentary group on endometriosis and a confidential national inquiry into the condition in 2024.
Dr. Lucy Whitaker, a researcher with the Wellbeing of Women charity, emphasized that a more holistic approach integrating psychological support with medical management is necessary for endometriosis, which has historically been under-resourced. An NHS England spokesperson acknowledged the significant impact of chronic pelvic pain on women’s mental health and noted that psychological professionals provide specialist pain-management support as part of wider physical health services.
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