Women's health (London, England)最新文献

{"title":"Denying humanitarian aid in a war zone: The intersecting impacts of the war on Gaza on adolescent girls' and young women's health.","authors":"Joost Vintges, Bassam Abu Hamad, Riyad Diab, Shoroq Abuhamad, Nicola Jones","doi":"10.1177/17455057251414296","DOIUrl":"10.1177/17455057251414296","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Since the Hamas attack on 7 October 2023, Israel has carried out an intensive bombing campaign and implemented a complete siege on Gaza, permitting extremely limited humanitarian aid. This has created a humanitarian catastrophe, yet little evidence exists on how it is experienced by adolescent girls and young women. A critical but overlooked challenge in conflict-affected contexts is the specific health needs of girls and young women, including menstrual hygiene management and sexual and reproductive health. In conflict, women and girls often struggle to access contraceptives, menstrual products, clean water and healthcare services, leading to significant immediate and longer-term risks.</p><p><strong>Objectives: </strong>This article explored these challenges in Gaza, examining how the intersecting impacts of the humanitarian crisis are affecting adolescent girls' and young women's basic needs and health outcomes.</p><p><strong>Design: </strong>It draws on a sequential mixed methods cross-sectional research study undertaken between August and December 2024.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>The study combined data from a household survey (<i>n</i> = 1011) of young people aged 10-24, with qualitative data from in-depth interviews (<i>n</i> = 100) and key informant interviews (<i>n</i> = 24).</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>The findings underscore severe and intersecting financial, physical and social obstacles in fulfilling girls' and young women's basic health needs in the context of the hostilities in Gaza, threatening their physical and mental health. Restricted access to clean water, sanitation, hygiene services and menstrual products heighten health risks, while the collapse of maternal health services threatens mothers and children. These deprivations are exacerbated by poverty from disrupted livelihoods and conservative gender norms that hinder girls' mobility and emphasise modesty, which is difficult to maintain in displacement contexts.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>The findings highlight the disproportionate impact of armed conflict on adolescent girls and young women and the urgency of preventative and responsive actions to address their health needs and uphold their rights to health.</p>","PeriodicalId":75327,"journal":{"name":"Women's health (London, England)","volume":"22 ","pages":"17455057251414296"},"PeriodicalIF":2.9,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12924936/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146260470","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Functional need or personal choice: Medical professionals' understanding and framing of performing female genital cosmetic procedures.","authors":"Hannelore Van Bavel, Anne-Mette Hermans","doi":"10.1177/17455057261423384","DOIUrl":"10.1177/17455057261423384","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Female genital cosmetic procedures (FGCPs) are becoming increasingly common but remain highly stigmatised and contested. This raises the question of how healthcare professionals justify performing FGCPs in such a context.</p><p><strong>Objectives: </strong>To understand how medical professionals (MPs) justify their involvement in FGCPs within a context of social and professional scrutiny.</p><p><strong>Design: </strong>Qualitative interview study using discursive thematic analysis.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>We conducted 11 in-depth interviews with plastic surgeons and gynaecologists performing FGCPs in Belgium and the Netherlands.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>MPs employ two main discursive framings to justify performing FGCPs. The <i>women's health</i> framing depicts FGCPs as addressing issues that were considered functional and fulfilling \"genuine\" medical needs, while the <i>women's choice</i> framing emphasises a woman's autonomy to make decisions about her body, even in the absence of functional concerns. Both framings are shaped by and rely on a series of juxtapositions which MP negotiate in their framings: functional versus aesthetic; patient choice versus medical decision-making; and medical versus cultural.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>MPs frame FGCPs in terms of women's health and choice, helping to legitimise them as ethical care. These framings, however, obscure key tensions - between function and aesthetics, autonomy and clinical judgement, and medical versus cultural motivations. Examining these discursive dynamics reveals how FGCPs are made acceptable within a contested field.</p>","PeriodicalId":75327,"journal":{"name":"Women's health (London, England)","volume":"22 ","pages":"17455057261423384"},"PeriodicalIF":2.9,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12967370/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147373706","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of Asian women with endometriosis in Canada: A photovoice study.","authors":"Kerry Marshall, A Fuchsia Howard, Nisha Marshall, Heather Noga, Natasha L Orr, Hannah E Rojas, Anna Leonova, Jessica Sutherland, Erin Fernie, Vinita Puri, Roop Bassra, Paul J Yong","doi":"10.1177/17455057251414300","DOIUrl":"10.1177/17455057251414300","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Endometriosis affects approximately 190 million people globally and 2 million in Canada. Experiences of endometriosis can profoundly impact all aspects of life, including physical, mental, and financial well-being. The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic impacted endometriosis care, mental health outcomes, and increased overt racism towards Asian people internationally.</p><p><strong>Objectives: </strong>In this study, we aimed to describe the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of Asian women living with endometriosis.</p><p><strong>Design: </strong>Qualitative, photovoice.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>We used photovoice, an arts-based methodology, and thematic analyses of 22 interviews with East, South, and Southeast Asian cisgender women living in Canada regarding their experiences with endometriosis during the COVID-19 pandemic.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Participant photographs and narratives conveyed how the COVID-19 pandemic caused disruptions in their lives, which influenced the ways they navigated, managed, and coped with endometriosis symptoms and, ultimately, their mental health. Some disruptions were exacerbated during the COVID-19 pandemic and impacted mental health, including worsening of and inability to manage symptoms as usual, deepening isolation and disconnection from self and society, and turbulent and transformational experiences in interpersonal relationships. Other disruptions were unrelated to the COVID-19 pandemic, including endometriosis invisibility and invalidation, the burden of necessary overplanning, and the complexities of grappling with uncertain fertility. Participants commonly described experiencing feelings of guilt, uncertainty, lack of control, fear, hopelessness, grief, anxiety, and depression.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated disruptions affecting the mental health of participants, disruptions unrelated to COVID-19 remained in participants' lives. Considering the latter was particularly impactful on the mental health of participants as these disruptions existed prior to - and would continue beyond - the COVID-19 pandemic.</p>","PeriodicalId":75327,"journal":{"name":"Women's health (London, England)","volume":"22 ","pages":"17455057251414300"},"PeriodicalIF":2.9,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12861374/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146101062","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Factors associated with mammogram and Papanicolaou testing among Mexican American older women.","authors":"Emma Rowlinson, Soham Al Snih","doi":"10.1177/17455057261421727","DOIUrl":"10.1177/17455057261421727","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Mammogram and Papanicolaou (Pap) smear tests are essential screening to detect breast and cancer cervical, respectively.</p><p><strong>Objective: </strong>Identify predisposing, enabling, and need factors associated with mammography and Paptest screenings among older Mexican American women over time.</p><p><strong>Design: </strong>Longitudinal study of 912 Mexican American women aged ⩾ 67 years.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Participants were assessed five times (1995/1996-2007/2008). Independent variables were based on the Andersen's Behavioral Model of Health Services, including predisposing factors (e.g., age of menopause), enabling factors (e.g., financial strain), and need factors (e.g., medical conditions). Outcomes included having a mammogram in the past 2 years and a Pap test in the past three. Generalized Estimation Equation models estimated the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for receiving a mammogram, Pap test, or both based on these factors.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Higher education (OR = 1.04, 95% CI = 1.01-1.07), physician visits (OR = 1.85, 95% CI = 1.33-2.56), hypertension (OR = 1.26, 95% CI = 1.04-1.51), arthritis (OR = 1.31, 95% CI = 1.07-1.60), and greater handgrip strength (OR = 1.02, 95% CI = 1.01-1.04) were associated with greater odds of receiving both a mammogram and Pap. Older age and early menopause (OR = 0.96, 95% CI = 0.94-0.98 and OR = 0.71, 95% CI = 0.58-0.89, respectively) were associated with lower odds of receiving both tests. Spanish interview (OR = 0.71, 95% CI = 0.56-0.91) and financial strain (OR = 0.83, 95% CI = 0.70-0.99) were associated with lower odds of receiving a Pap test and mammogram test, respectively over time.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Language barriers and financial constraints reduce cancer screening rates among Mexican American women. Cultural tailored care and improved access, such as bilingual clinics and mobile screening are needed to address these gaps.</p>","PeriodicalId":75327,"journal":{"name":"Women's health (London, England)","volume":"22 ","pages":"17455057261421727"},"PeriodicalIF":2.9,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12924983/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146230077","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"\"Give me the sense that I matter:\" Queer women's recommendations for an ideal cervical cancer screening exam and pathways to screening equity.","authors":"Deana M Williams, Shawn Reilly, Tanisha Lord, Kara Ayers, Sage Kissiah-Grove, Marissa Robinson, Lyda Fong, Joseph Angel","doi":"10.1177/17455057261428108","DOIUrl":"10.1177/17455057261428108","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Cervical cancer screening is a powerful tool in the prevention, early detection, and diagnosis of precancers and cancer. There is mounting evidence, however, demonstrating that Queer cisgender women experience disparities in cervical cancer screening access and uptake compared to their heterosexual counterparts. To close gaps in screening, Queer women's voices and visions must foreground recommendations aimed at remedying screening inequities.</p><p><strong>Objectives: </strong>This study aims to explore perceptions on an ideal cervical cancer screening exam among a racially and ethnically diverse group of Queer women.</p><p><strong>Design: </strong>This qualitative interview study is led in partnership with a multidisciplinary community steering committee. Our work is grounded in the Reproductive Justice Framework.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>We held in-depth interviews with 19 Queer women to understand their recommendations for improving cervical cancer screening experiences for their community. Data from these interviews were analyzed through thematic analysis.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>We identified five themes around creating an ideal cervical cancer screening experience among Queer women: (1) community outreach and education, (2) cues of affirmation and safety, (3) Queer patient navigation and advocacy, (4) Queer-affirming and knowledgeable providers, and (5) trauma-informed care.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Engaging Queer women in developing solutions to address screening disparities is a missing link in cervical cancer prevention and the advancement of reproductive health equity. We share actionable strategies at the healthcare professional, community, and organizational levels to support healthcare systems in translating Queer women's visions into practice. Our findings also inform medical organizations, expert panels, and health authorities on patient-defined strategies and pathways to remedying screening inequity.</p>","PeriodicalId":75327,"journal":{"name":"Women's health (London, England)","volume":"22 ","pages":"17455057261428108"},"PeriodicalIF":2.9,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12988298/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147446096","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Measuring menstrual hygiene in high-income countries: A scoping review.","authors":"Mintesnot Tenkir Teni, Jamirah Abdul-Haqq, Edvanio Fernandes, Anne Sebert Kuhlmann","doi":"10.1177/17455057261430205","DOIUrl":"10.1177/17455057261430205","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Despite growing recognition of menstrual hygiene management (MHM) challenges in high-income countries (HICs), validated measurement tools specific to the context and experiences of these populations are lacking, with most tools being developed in low- and middle-income countries. The lack of validated instruments makes it difficult to examine the extent of menstrual product insecurity, period poverty, and menstrual hygiene in HICs, and limits researchers' ability to evaluate trends over time.</p><p><strong>Objective: </strong>To summarize menstrual hygiene measurement tools developed and/or used in HICs, as well as the domains covered and psychometric properties of these tools, such as validity and reliability.</p><p><strong>Eligibility criteria: </strong>Studies conducted in HICs, discuss MHM, and employ a quantitative or mixed-methods design.</p><p><strong>Source of evidence: </strong>Published studies were sourced from OVID Medline, Scopus, and CINAHL Plus using standardized search strategies.</p><p><strong>Charting methods: </strong>Data from the included studies were charted using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR).</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Forty-five studies conducted in HICs between 1996 and 2024 met the inclusion criteria. Most were quantitative (<i>n</i> = 38), and the majority were conducted in the United States (<i>n</i> = 26). Across studies, 741 MHM measurement items were identified with menstrual product insecurity, psychosocial concerns, absenteeism, and menstruation-related consequences, and water, sanitation, and hygiene factors. Twelve studies reported psychometric properties; however, only five instruments were fully validated, and none comprehensively measured \"period poverty.\" Items assessing product insecurity and absenteeism varied widely in wording, response options, and domains covered, limiting comparability across studies.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Despite growing research and policy attention, HICs lack standardized, validated tools to measure menstrual product insecurity, period poverty, and related outcomes. To advance menstrual equity, track progress, and improve menstrual health outcomes, there is an urgent need for reliable and validated measurement tools that support surveillance, policy evaluation, and intervention efforts.</p>","PeriodicalId":75327,"journal":{"name":"Women's health (London, England)","volume":"22 ","pages":"17455057261430205"},"PeriodicalIF":2.9,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12979905/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147438317","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Exploring the impact of Ramadan fasting on women's reproductive health: A narrative review.","authors":"Sehar Hussain, Sana Ahsan, Alysha Ali, Hira Khan, Sedra Tibi, Hina Mohsin","doi":"10.1177/17455057261435746","DOIUrl":"10.1177/17455057261435746","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar in which Muslims abstain from consumption of food and drink, smoking, and engaging in sexual activity during daylight hours for the full lunar month, approximately 29-30 days. Beyond its spiritual significance, fasting during this month represents a distinct physiologic and cultural practice that may influence women's reproductive health. This narrative review integrates findings from published studies to summarize current evidence on the impact of Ramadan fasting (RF) on the menstrual cycle, fertility, polycystic ovary syndrome, pregnancy, and breastfeeding. Relevant literature was identified through PubMed and Embase using keywords related to Ramadan and women's health, with emphasis on qualitative synthesis and critical interpretation rather than quantitative comparison. Across the literature, RF appears to cause mild and temporary menstrual irregularities without major hormonal changes. Fertility hormones generally remain stable. Among pregnant and breastfeeding women, most studies report no significant differences in maternal or neonatal health between fasting and non-fasting groups, though findings vary by region, nutritional intake, and gestational timing. While immediate birth outcomes appear largely unaffected, long-term effects have been elucidated through recent studies. Collectively, the evidence highlights the physiologic adaptability of women during RF while revealing the need for more comprehensive research on RF's effect on women's health. Gaining insight into this area of research contributes to a more inclusive and culturally sensitive approach to healthcare, targeting the unique needs of female Muslim patients. This will allow healthcare providers to leverage this research to establish rapport with their patients and deliver attuned, quality care.</p>","PeriodicalId":75327,"journal":{"name":"Women's health (London, England)","volume":"22 ","pages":"17455057261435746"},"PeriodicalIF":2.9,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13051150/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147596729","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Indigenous mothers' perspectives on improving maternal healthcare in Northwest Territories, Canada: Results from the Maternal and Infant Health Project.","authors":"Rachel Harris, Fariba Kolahdooz, Moutasem Zakkar, Claire Manning, Marie Tarrant, André Corriveau, Stephanie Irlbacher-Fox, Adrian Wagg, Sangita Sharma","doi":"10.1177/17455057261445717","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1177/17455057261445717","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>BackgroundImproving global maternal health is a key goal within the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals. In Northwest Territories, Indigenous mothers face significant disparities in maternal healthcare, with higher risks of maternal mortality and healthcare access challenges.ObjectiveTo explore Indigenous mothers' perspectives on opportunities to improve maternal healthcare services in Northwest Territories, Canada, using qualitative data from the Maternal and Infant Health study.DesignQualitative design.MethodsSelf-identifying Indigenous women of childbearing age (17-49 years) who were pregnant at the time of the interview or had given birth within the last three years were invited to participate. A culturally appropriate, interviewer-administered, semi-structured questionnaire was utilized for quantitative and qualitative data collection. Qualitative data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis.ResultsIn total, 156 Indigenous women participated (mean age =29.7 years, SD=6; age range 17-47 years). 93% gave birth in the past three years, and 18% were pregnant. Three themes emerged regarding areas in which to improve maternal healthcare: experiences and challenges with service delivery, support networks, including more connections with Elders, and cultural sensitivity. Specifically, participants reported a preference for childbirth to take place within home communities, aided by midwives and family members and utilizing Indigenous maternal care practices. Participants also voiced the necessity of increasing the provision of mental healthcare, postpartum care, and support group services that incorporate traditional local languages.ConclusionTo improve maternal healthcare services within Indigenous communities, building trusting relationships with healthcare professionals that honour Indigenous practices, improving healthcare accessibility, and increasing the delivery of local healthcare services and support are of priority. This paper contributes to the sparse literature currently available, providing Indigenous-informed evidence to guide the conceptualization, practice, and policy of maternal healthcare in Northwest Territories.</p>","PeriodicalId":75327,"journal":{"name":"Women's health (London, England)","volume":"22 ","pages":"17455057261445717"},"PeriodicalIF":2.9,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147847363","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Enduring displacement: The struggle for dignity, privacy, and survival among Gazan women.","authors":"Bilal Hamamra, Fayez Mahamid, Dana Bdier","doi":"10.1177/17455057261445723","DOIUrl":"10.1177/17455057261445723","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>BackgroundFollowing decades of siege and systemic violence, the recent Israeli war on the Gaza Strip has further intensified the genocide, displacement, and severe shortages of basic necessities endured by Palestinians. Among the most affected are Gazan women, who have taken on multiple roles in the face of these hardships. The lack of essential resources and opportunities has significantly hindered their ability to provide for their children and families.ObjectivesThis study explores the impact of displacement on the lives of women in Gaza, focusing on the loss of privacy, dignity, and the daily struggle for survival in overcrowded shelters.DesignDrawing from in-depth testimonies of displaced women, the research highlights the physical, emotional, and psychological tolls caused by ongoing displacement due to the genocide in Gaza.MethodsThe study adopts a qualitative approach, using semi-structured interviews to gather personal narratives from women who have faced multiple displacements.ResultsKey themes include the erosion of personal autonomy, the challenges of securing basic necessities such as food and healthcare, and the psychological effects of living in unsafe and overcrowded conditions. The findings reveal the profound impact of displacement on women's roles as caregivers, as well as the resilience and solidarity they exhibit despite the overwhelming hardships.ConclusionThis research provides a critical insight into the dehumanizing consequences of displacement while showcasing the strength of Gaza's women in their fight for survival and dignity.</p>","PeriodicalId":75327,"journal":{"name":"Women's health (London, England)","volume":"22 ","pages":"17455057261445723"},"PeriodicalIF":2.9,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13133431/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147791863","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"The relationship between psychological factors and pain in endometriosis.","authors":"R Favaloro, K T Hallam, P Saunders","doi":"10.1177/17455057261444146","DOIUrl":"10.1177/17455057261444146","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Endometriosis is a prevalent condition characterized by persistent pelvic pain, which leads to distress and reduced quality of life. Currently, there is limited research examining the psychological factors associated with the symptoms of endometriosis, including potential risks and protective factors. The fear-avoidance model was identified to be a potential model to describe how psychological factors may impact the pain-related symptoms of endometriosis, informing the role that hypervigilance, pain catastrophizing, and avoidance behaviors play in increasing pain and distress. Previous research exploring this model identified self-efficacy and functionality appreciation as potential factors in reducing pain and distress in individuals with endometriosis.</p><p><strong>Objectives: </strong>The present study explores the fear-avoidance model's application to pain-related symptoms and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in people with endometriosis, and the interaction between these variables to better understand the psychological processes linked to increased pain and HRQoL in individuals with endometriosis.</p><p><strong>Design: </strong>This study was cross-sectional observational design, with data collection and analysis conducted over the course of 6 months following ethics approval.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A total of 332 participants (female = 94%, male = 2.7%, non-binary/third gender = 3.3%) aged between 18 and 57 (<i>M</i> = 31.14, SD = 7.93) completed an online questionnaire assessing self-efficacy, functionality satisfaction, pain hypervigilance, pain catastrophizing, sexual avoidance and functioning, pain avoidance and pain severity. Correlational analysis, multiple linear regression and moderation analysis were conducted.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Functionality appreciation and self-efficacy were both associated with decreased pain and increased HRQoL. Hypervigilance functioned as an enhancing moderator for the relationship between sexual avoidance and pain, while pain catastrophizing acted as an enhancing moderator for the relationship between pain and HRQoL.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>The overall findings of the present study revealed the expanded application of the fear-avoidance model, and its use in conceptualizing pain in endometriosis. This includes the role of functionality appreciation and self-efficacy as potential protective factors against increased pain in endometriosis. This study supports the development of interventions targeting hypervigilance, and pain catastrophizing as valuable strategies for pain management and improving HRQoL among individuals with endometriosis.</p>","PeriodicalId":75327,"journal":{"name":"Women's health (London, England)","volume":"22 ","pages":"17455057261444146"},"PeriodicalIF":2.9,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13133433/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147791887","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}