#INTERVIEW: The Silent Struggle: Shedding Light on Endometriosis and Women’s Health

Endometriosis remains one of the most misunderstood and misdiagnosed medical conditions affecting women today. Despite its prevalence, awareness about this chronic disease remains limited, leading to years of suffering before a correct diagnosis is made.

To shed light on this often-overlooked condition, Dr. Charles Nagy, Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist and Master Surgeon of Endometriosis at Medcare Women & Children Hospital shares valuable insights into endometriosis, its misconceptions, and why early diagnosis is crucial.

Delna Mistry Anand: Dr. Nagy, let’s begin with the basics. What exactly is endometriosis, and how does it impact women’s health?

Dr. Charles Nagy: Endometriosis is a disorder where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus. This misplaced tissue behaves like the endometrium—it thickens, breaks down, and bleeds with each menstrual cycle. However, since this tissue has no way to exit the body, it causes inflammation, pain, and scar tissue formation. The condition can be incredibly painful, disrupt daily life, and, in many cases, lead to infertility. Women can suffer in silence for years, as diagnosis typically takes around a decade.

What are some of the biggest misconceptions about endometriosis?

One of the biggest myths is that painful periods are normal. While some discomfort is expected, extreme pain that interferes with daily activities should not be ignored. Another misconception is that endometriosis only affects the reproductive system. In reality, it can affect multiple organs, including the bowels and bladder. It’s also often mistaken for other conditions such as appendicitis, ovarian cysts, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which delays diagnosis.

Another paradox of endometriosis is that the severity of pain does not always correlate with the extent of the disease. Some women with severe endometriosis may experience minimal pain, while others with mild cases may suffer debilitating symptoms.

What treatment options are available, and how can women manage their symptoms effectively?

Treatment varies depending on the severity of symptoms, age, and fertility goals. We use a combination of medical and surgical approaches.

Medical treatments include pain management and hormonal therapy to suppress ovulation and menstrual cycles, thereby reducing inflammation. In cases where medication is insufficient, laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery can be performed to remove endometriosis lesions and cysts.

For those struggling with fertility due to endometriosis, surgical intervention can significantly improve the chances of conception. At Medcare Women & Children Hospital, our pregnancy success rate after surgical procedures for Deep Infiltrating Endometriosis, the most severe form of the condition, is over 65%.

How important is early detection in managing endometriosis?

Early detection is crucial. While there is no known way to prevent endometriosis, early diagnosis and treatment can slow disease progression, reduce symptoms, and improve quality of life.

The problem is that symptoms often start with a young woman’s first period, yet diagnosis usually happens much later—between the ages of 30 and 40. This delay leads to unnecessary suffering and can have long-term consequences on fertility and overall well-being. Increasing awareness, improving medical training, and encouraging women to seek early intervention are key to changing this.

Medcare Women & Children Hospital is known for its excellence in endometriosis care. Can you share your approach to treating this condition?

We are one of the first gold seal accredited centres of excellence for endometriosis multidisciplinary care. Our approach is comprehensive, addressing the condition’s impact on multiple organs. We have a dedicated team of colorectal surgeons, fertility specialists, urologists, radiologists, pain management experts, and gynaecologists.

One of our priorities is ensuring an accurate and early diagnosis through advanced imaging techniques such as detailed ultrasound mapping and MRI. By precisely identifying the disease and tailoring treatment to each patient’s needs—whether for pain management or fertility—we aim to significantly improve their quality of life.

Are there any lifestyle modifications or home remedies that can help women manage their symptoms?

Absolutely. While medical treatment is often necessary, certain lifestyle changes can help alleviate symptoms. Applying a heating pad or taking warm baths can soothe pelvic pain. Regular exercise, anti-inflammatory diets, and nutritional supplements can also be beneficial. Some women find relief with alternative therapies such as acupuncture or herbal remedies, though these should always be discussed with a healthcare provider.

Lastly, what message would you like to share with women who may be struggling with undiagnosed symptoms or have recently been diagnosed with endometriosis?

If you are experiencing persistent pelvic pain, heavy or irregular periods, painful intercourse, or difficulty conceiving, do not ignore it. Painful periods are not normal. Seek a specialist who understands endometriosis and can offer a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Early intervention can make all the difference.

To every woman suffering in silence, know that you are not alone. There is help, and there is hope.

With endometriosis affecting millions of women worldwide, conversations like these are essential in driving awareness and change. As Dr. Nagy emphasizes, no woman should have to endure years of pain without answers. The more we educate, advocate, and support, the closer we move toward earlier diagnosis, better treatment, and ultimately, a better quality of life for those affected.