Endometriosis goes beyond being a health concern; it can seriously impact women's careers. The pain, often unseen, is unyielding. With symptoms ranging from pelvic cramps to fatigue and nausea, many women find themselves enduring workdays quietly, hiding their discomfort just to maintain their jobs.

Endometriosis at work

In a chat with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Manjula NV, a Consultant in the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department at Ramaiah Memorial Hospital, shared, “Endometriosis is a significant health issue impacting 42 million women across India. This chronic gynecological condition occurs when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, typically affecting the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or the pelvic lining.”

She also mentioned, “Endometriosis can lead to painful periods, cramps, and heavy menstrual bleeding. Since it’s a progressive condition, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional for evaluation.”

Dr. Sanjay Patel, an Endometriosis Surgeon at Mayflower Women’s Hospital in Ahmedabad, pointed out, “The financial effects are significant. Studies indicate that women with endometriosis frequently experience lower incomes and interrupted career trajectories. A lot of them leave their jobs or earn much less in the years after their diagnosis. This isn’t just a monetary issue—it highlights the lack of support for chronic illnesses in the workplace, but change is possible.”

Ways to prevent endometriosis from quietly undermining women's careers

He claimed that making strategic adjustments can enable women to succeed in their careers and health. Dr. Sanjay Patel suggested:

• Having open discussions with employers about flexibility, remote work, or taking time off during flare-ups can really change day-to-day life. It's important to plan tasks around when you feel most energetic, manage stress effectively, and stick to a healthy routine.
• Support networks, whether online or in person, provide valuable emotional backing. Access to proper medical care—be it through medication, physiotherapy, or surgery—is also crucial. Take the example of a teacher from Assam who returned to her job after treatment; her story proves that recovery is achievable.
• Living and working with endometriosis requires more than just resilience; it demands the right information, a supportive community, and a workplace culture that promotes open conversations instead of silence.
• What we truly need is to normalize discussions about endometriosis in the workplace. When women can share their experiences without fear or shame, it paves the way for genuine support. Talking about it doesn’t weaken a workplace; it strengthens it, making it more inclusive and compassionate. Imagine if sharing your story could be the catalyst for change—it absolutely can be.

Dr. Manjula NV shared her insights, emphasizing that the treatment approach usually varies based on the severity of the symptoms. She went on to explain further-

• The initial approach involves making lifestyle adjustments, practicing meditation, and using non-hormonal medications.
• Lifestyle changes include adopting an anti-inflammatory diet and engaging in regular exercise to alleviate symptoms. Staying active can help manage pain and enhance overall health.
• Next, pain relief can start with NSAIDs (Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) like ibuprofen and naproxen, which help reduce pain and inflammation. There are also medications that can lower hormone production and decrease the activity of endometriosis, with newer options like Dienogest showing promising results.
• To regulate hormones, options like birth control pills, hormonal IUDs, or GnRH agonists can be used to suppress the menstrual cycle and limit the growth of endometrial tissue. These medications aim to reduce ovarian activity, which in turn lessens the impact of abnormal endometrial-like tissue. GnRH analogues are typically considered a second-line treatment and are usually prescribed by a gynecologist, as they work by inhibiting estrogen production.
• For patients whose symptoms aren't managed by pain relievers or hormonal treatments, surgical options may be explored. Initially, laparoscopic surgery can be performed to remove endometriotic cysts, often referred to as chocolate cysts. In more severe cases, such as stage 4 endometriosis, rectal resection of the cyst may be necessary.
• Surgery can be particularly helpful for those with advanced conditions. If the situation deteriorates, a hysterectomy along with oophorectomy (removal of the uterus and ovaries) might be suggested.

Read Also: 8 Portable Hair Straighteners to Keep Your Hair Sleek and Smooth On the Go

Get the latest Bollywood entertainment news, trending celebrity news, latest celebrity news, new movie reviews, latest entertainment news, latest Bollywood news, and Bollywood celebrity fashion & style updates!

HOW DID YOU LIKE THIS ARTICLE? CHOOSE YOUR EMOTICON!