Évaluation du ressenti sur la prise en charge de la douleur liée à l’endométriose par les médecins généralistes à La Réunion

Background: Endometriosis is a common and frequently under-diagnosed condition, causing disabling pain and significant morbidity. The chronic pelvic pain that is often associated with it is a frequent reason for consultation in general practice, and its apparent triviality should not lead to it being underestimated. GPs often feel at a loss when faced with this reason for consultation, given the extent of the symptoms and the need to adapt to the patient. The aim of this study is to explore the feelings and difficulties encountered by GPs in managing the pain of their patients suffering from endometriosis. Method: This was a qualitative study based on semi-structured interviews conducted by telephone or videoconference using a pre-constructed interview guide. GPs were recruited from the Yellow Pages. Results: Thirteen interviews were carried out. Data saturation was achieved. Most of the GPs in the sample felt comfortable with the initial prescription of medication for endometriosis pain, but encountered difficulties when this failed. Alternative therapies that may be associated with endometriosis appear to be difficult to access and little known, and are therefore often not offered. The position of GPs in the care network is not standard and depends on the skills and habits of each practitioner. However, through their work as general practitioners, they have the listening and accessibility skills that are essential in the management of chronic pain, particularly in the case of endometriosis. Conclusion: This study shows the difficulties encountered in the management of endometriosis pain in general practice and the therapeutic arsenal available for its management. Standardisation of non-medicinal therapies and the introduction of a comprehensive management ap-proach combining medicinal and non-medicinal approaches could help in the management of patients, as well as improving the doctor's experi-ence.