Evaluation of Endometriosis–Associated Pain Symptoms and Their Management among Women of Reproductive Age at St. Theresa Kiirua Mission Hospital, Kenya

Harshika N. Patel*; Sylvia Odhiambo; Mogire Stacy; Ricky Rutto; Lydiah Moraa; Kevin Kimutai; & Johnson Kazungu
Kenya Methodist University, P.O BOX 267-60200-MERU, Kenya
DOI – http://doi.org/10.37502/IJSMR.2025.9103

Abstract

Endometriosis is a chronic gynecological issue during the reproductive age and is always associated with various symptoms, but severe pelvic pain is the hallmark among all. This study mainly aimed to evaluate the characteristics and management of endometriosis-associated pain among women of reproductive age. The study assessed 90 patient records by using a retrospective cross-sectional design from January 2020 to December 2024. Using systematic random sampling, data were abstracted using a well-structured, pretested abstraction form, and the resulting data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Findings revealed that 33.3% (n=30) of patients were aged 45-49 years. Chronic pelvic pain was analyzed in 32% (n=29) of patients, and dysmenorrhea 26% (n=23) of patients. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs were the most commonly prescribed medications at 77.8% (n=70), while 22.2% (n=20) of the cases prescribed opioids to manage the pain. Additionally, hormonal therapies were the least prescribed, suggesting possible gaps in long-term medical management, although 71% of patients used oral contraceptives. 25.6% of patients reported receiving care through a multidisciplinary approach, a crucial component of comprehensive endometriosis management. The study highlights significant gaps in the timely diagnosis, holistic management, and access to specialist care for women suffering from endometriosis-associated pain.

Keywords: GnRH Agonists, Chronic Pelvic Pain, Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs, Endometriosis

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