A 10-Year Journey to Diagnosis With Endometriosis: An Autobiographical Case Report

Cureus. 2022 Jan 17;14(1):e21329. doi: 10.7759/cureus.21329. eCollection 2022 Jan.

Abstract

Endometriosis is a multifocal, chronic disease defined by extrauterine endometrial glands and stroma. This case report describes the author's experience of living with stage IV endometriosis, including a 10-year diagnostic delay, the impact on daily life, management, and treatment. The diagnostic delay for endometriosis averages between seven to nine years globally, which imparts significant physical, psychological, and financial effects on the lives of patients.

Keywords: autobiographical case report; chronic pelvic pain; diagnostic delay; endometrioma; endometriosis; endometriosis of the diaphragm; endometriosis staging; heavy menstrual bleeding; laparoscopic surgery for endometriosis; leuprolide.

Publication types

  • Case Reports