Objective:The understanding as to how people with endometriosis view and relate to their bodies is limited but important given the physical and psychological symptoms associated with the condition. The current study explored the differences in HRQoL (general, physical, emotional) and body image in an endometriosis and control sample. The current study also examined the influence of disease status (+Endo, -Endo), psychological wellbeing, and body image on HRQoL.

Methods:Data was collected via an international online cross-sectional survey examining HRQoL, body image factors (negative appreciation of body size, lack of body familiarity, general body dissatisfaction), and psychological wellbeing (depression, anxiety, somatic concern) in adults.

Results:Participants were grouped by disease status (endometriosis: +Endo n = 318; control: -Endo n = 420). As hypothesised, the +Endo group reported significantly lower HRQoL and poorer body image than those in the -Endo group. Hierarchical multiple regression analyses (MRA) indicated that disease status and somatic concern are significant correlates of general HRQoL, and that disease status and lack of body familiarity are significant correlates of physical and emotional HRQoL.

Conclusions:Endometriosis has a negative impact on HRQoL and body familiarity, with those diagnosed with the condition reporting significantly lower levels of HRQoL. Assessment and treatment of poor body familiarity in people diagnosed with endometriosis is recommended as part of psychological treatment pathways.

Item Type:	Refereed Article
Keywords:	Endometriosis, Health-related quality of life, Body image, Psychological wellbeing, Pain
Research Division:	Psychology
Research Group:	Clinical and health psychology
Research Field:	Clinical psychology
Objective Division:	Health
Objective Group:	Specific population health (excl. Indigenous health)
Objective Field:	Women's and maternal health
UTAS Author:	Van Niekerk, LM (Dr Leesa Van Niekerk)
UTAS Author:	Steains, EC (Miss Emma Steains)
UTAS Author:	Matthewson, M (Dr Mandy Matthewson)
ID Code:	154388
Year Published:	2022
Deposited By:	Psychology
Deposited On:	2022-11-28
Last Modified:	2022-12-01
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