Experiences of male partners of women with endometriosis-associated pelvic pain: a qualitative study

Author(s)

Margatho, Deborah ; Makuch, Maria Y. ; Bahamondes, Luis

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF CONTRACEPTION AND REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH CARE; v. 27, n. 6, p. 7-pg., 2022-07-22.

Abstract

Objectives The purpose of the study was to assess the experiences of male partners of women with endometriosis-associated pain after medical treatment in their everyday lives. Methods We conducted a phenomenological study based on semi-structured interviews with 11 male partners of women with endometriosis-associated pelvic pain at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Campinas Medical School, Brazil. A thematic analysis of manifest content was performed, a coding frame was drafted, and the main analysis categories were elaborated. Results The interviewed men had been in stable relationships for a median length of 14 years. They reported that they did not have information about endometriosis before their partners' diagnosis and that the endometriosis-associated pelvic pain suffered by their partners affected their personal everyday life, marital relationship, sexual relationship, and intimacy. Conclusion Male partners of women with endometriosis-associated pain reported that the disease has both a profound impact on their lives and on their relationship. Our study contributed to an increased understanding of the life experience of men living with women with endometriosis-associated pelvic pain and may contribute to encourage healthcare professionals to incorporate strategies for guidance of the couple during treatment. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 15/20504-9 - Clinical findings among progestin-only contraceptives' users
• Grantee: Luis Guillermo Bahamondes
• Support Opportunities: Research Projects - Thematic Grants