PATIENTS MAY BE TREATED BY Medical OR SURGICAL THERAPY. The choice of therapy depends on a number of factors such as symptoms, type of endometrial lesions, desired outcomes and patient choice. Steroidal and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (pain medication) and contraceptives are common therapies. Hormonal therapy is aimed at reducing oestrogen levels or increasing progesterone levels. These therapies must be carefully monitored to prevent adverse side effects. These medical therapies don’t cure endometriosis but alleviate symptoms. Sometimes, symptoms re-occur after cessation of medication.

Surgery can remove endometriosis lesions and scar tissue however, in some cases, might not successfully reduce pelvic pain. In certain cases, the endometriosis lesions might re-occur following successful surgery.

Treatment, whether surgical or medical, is also guided by patients’ fertility needs. Commonly, treatment of endometriosis requires concerted efforts from multidisciplinary teams including gynaecologists, pain management specialists, physiotherapists, psychotherapists, counselors and occupational therapists among others.

Addressing current challenges in diagnosis and treatment includes; sensitization of health workers about early recognition and management of symptoms, the role of a multidisciplinary approach and appropriate referral for specialist care, and advocacy for health policies and infrastructure that guarantees access to atleast a minimum level of treatment and support.[i]

[i] https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/endometriosis