Psychological hallmarks of endometriosis with emphasis on sexual dysfunction, stress, anxiety and depressive symptoms

Abstract

Endometriosis is associated with gynecological disorders and infertility. More than 50 % of women report that they suffer from sexual dysfunctions, the most significant of which is pain, which can subsequently be associated with stress, anxiety, depression and partner discomfort. In our study, we focused on evaluating these symptoms. A total of 92 patients with endometriosis were included in the study. Clinical examinations were focused on biochemical analysis of cortisol and prolactin, as important hormones that can respond to stress, anxiety and depressive symptoms. At the same time, sexual function, stress, anxiety and depressive symptoms were psychometrically evaluated in these patients. Positive correlations were found between psychosocial trauma/stress and results from the sexual function questionnaire (R=0.30). Furthermore, positive correlations were evaluated between the results of Beck's questionnaire for assessing depression and prolactin (R=0.39) and also between the results of Beck's questionnaire for assessing depression and the anxiety test (R=0.33). We also found a high correlation between prolactin and anxiety (R=0.86). All results were confirmed by the Mann-Whitney test. These results represent important findings regarding the relationship of certain stress hormones, with sexual dysfunction and symptoms related to stress, anxiety and depression in women with endometriosis, which are still receiving little attention within endometriosis.