The Black Cloud of Endometriosis on different aspects of the Life of Women with Endometriosis: a qualitative study in Iran

Abstract Aim To explore the perception of the impact of endometriosis on various aspects in affected women with endometriosis. Method Data was gathered through in-depth and semi-structured individual interviews using open questions to comprehend women’s experiences with endometriosis and their health-promoting lifestyle. The Conventional Qualitative Content Analysis approach was utilized, and sampling continued until data saturation. Ultimately, 14 women with endometriosis were interviewed. Results The theme was following the dominance of the Black Cloud of Endometriosis on Different Aspects of the Life of Women with Endometriosis; with main categories involving (a) Physical depreciation caused by endometriosis, (b) psychological deterioration caused by endometriosis, (c) social isolation, (d) marital relationship disorder, and sexual dissatisfaction. Conclusions The concepts show that endometriosis impacts negatively on different aspects of women’s lives. Considering that endometriosis is a multi-dimensional disease, identifying the different aspects of this disease and paying attention to meeting the perceived needs of the affected women will help to improve the treatment process and bring the affected women to the end of their health. These should be improved by adopting appropriate approaches in health policies.