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After decades of neglect and misdiagnoses, scientists from around the world are finally seriously researching the issue of endometriosis. Some of the results, even at today’s level of medical development, are so significant that it is hard to imagine the challenges women faced in the past.
Here, we present five new studies on the causes and effects of endometriosis. All the results have only been published since the beginning of 2025. For a detailed overview of endometriosis, please refer to our Women’s Health Encyclopedia.
A Global Problem of Endometriosis
Endometriosis is the growth of the inner lining of the uterus (endometrium) outside its boundaries, where it does not belong. Approximately 190 million women and girls around the world suffer from this condition, which accounts for about 10% of all women globally.
Although there may be no symptoms at times, endometriosis can still cause complications. These include heavy menstruation, painful sex and bloodstained discharge afterward, digestive problems, as well as difficulty or inability to conceive. Additionally, there are psychological issues: many women with endometriosis suffer from anxiety disorders and depression.
This is a serious and widespread issue, right? However, the average time to diagnose endometriosis is up to 10 years. Therefore, the attention from the scientific community, though delayed, is extremely important.
Let’s start with the latest updates.
Traumatic Experiences Linked to the Risk of Endometriosis
A new international study, published on February 5, 2025, revealed a strong connection between traumatic experiences and endometriosis. According to the findings, physical and sexual violence, as well as other severe traumas, significantly increase the likelihood of developing endometriosis – regardless of genetic predisposition.
For example, people with endometriosis were 17% more likely to have witnessed a sudden death, 16% more likely to have experienced sexual assault in adulthood and 36% more likely to have received a life-threatening diagnosis.
Marina Mitjans, study co-author, Sant Joan de Déu Research Institute
The researchers analyzed data from over 240,000 women in the UK Biobank, a large biomedical database. Furthermore, they found a correlation between endometriosis, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and childhood abuse. These findings align with previous analyses from the same research group, which linked the condition with depression, anxiety, and eating disorders.
Women with Endometriosis Earn Less
In a pioneering study conducted by the UK’s Office for National Statistics (ONS), researchers analyzed medical data and income information from over 55,000 women. It was found that, after receiving a diagnosis, the average monthly income of women with endometriosis decreased by £56 (almost 3,000 UAH) over the course of four to five years. Furthermore, the likelihood of employment during that same period decreased by 2.7%.
Many women were forced to shorten their workday, switch to lower-paying jobs, or even quit altogether.
I’m earning a third less than I was before, I’ve had to sell my house and move to a cheaper area in order to free up some money to pay my bills.
Emily Jones, restaurant chef
Increased Risk of Cardiovascular Diseases
A study published on January 21 in BMC Public Health revealed a link between endometriosis and an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and hypertension. Researchers found that women with endometriosis have a 23% higher risk of developing CVD and a 13% higher likelihood of hypertension compared to those without the condition. This is the first meta-analysis to reveal such a link.
The study suggests that systemic inflammation, oxidative stress, and elevated estrogen levels may contribute to the development of cardiovascular complications in women with endometriosis. These factors negatively affect blood vessels, increasing arterial stiffness and the buildup of atherosclerotic plaques.
Main Cause of Hospitalization
Scientists from the University of Queensland conducted the first long-term study on the impact of endometriosis on Australia’s healthcare system. This disease affects about one in seven Australian women aged 44 to 49. They analyzed medical data from over 13,500 women over a 27-year period and found that women with endometriosis were more likely to be hospitalized, although their stays were generally shorter. However, after diagnosis, these women experienced more frequent and longer hospitalizations.
This indicates recurrence of the condition, even after surgical intervention, posing significant challenges for long-term management.
Dr. Dereje Gete, UQ’s School of Public Health
Psychological Consequences of Endometriosis
Almost 28% of women with endometriosis suffer from anhedonia – a reduced ability to experience pleasure, which is closely related to the intensity of pain. These are the findings of a study published in Scientific Reports on January 4, 2025.
The study involved 212 women, and the results showed that those who experienced intense pain, particularly chronic pelvic pain, were more likely to suffer from anhedonia, anxiety, and depression. Key aspects of life, including social interactions, enjoyment of food, and sensory experiences, were significantly disrupted. This indicates that the pain associated with endometriosis affects not only physical health but also emotional well-being, even in women without diagnosed mental health disorders.
Conclusion
In fact, it’s all connected. Endometriosis impacts all aspects of a woman’s life and negatively affects her overall well-being. Unfortunately, managing this issue on your own is not possible, so it is important to consult a specialist. Experienced doctors at the “Lior” Medical Center can assist with accurate diagnosis and therapy. For more information and to schedule an appointment, please call +380 73 200 6198 or contact us via Telegram at this number.
