Endometriosis is a chronic condition affecting millions of women worldwide, and despite its widespread prevalence, it remains one of the most misunderstood diseases. In South Africa, like many parts of the world, many women go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed for years, often due to a lack of awareness or healthcare access. The symptoms of endometriosis can vary, from debilitating pelvic pain and heavy periods to pain during intercourse and infertility. The condition affects women’s lives on many levels, and understanding its causes and impact is essential to improving awareness, empowering women to seek help, and enhancing their quality of life.
What is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis happens when tissue, similar to the lining of the womb, grows outside the uterus. This tissue behaves like uterine lining—thickening, breaking down, and bleeding with each menstrual cycle. However, it has no way to exit the body, leading to trapped tissue, inflammation, and the development of scar tissue and adhesions. These adhesions can cause organs to stick together, leading to pain and complications, including infertility. This disease most commonly affects women of reproductive age.
In South Africa, endometriosis is a significant yet often overlooked issue. Although statistics on its exact prevalence are hard to come by, some studies have shown that it is one of the leading causes of infertility and pelvic pain in women in South Africa. The condition is increasingly being recognized as a major health issue, with the World Health Organization (2021) estimating that approximately 10% of women of reproductive age globally are affected, which translates to an estimated 1.5 million South African women. [World Health Organization, 2021]
Prevalence and Risk Factors
Endometriosis is often thought to be rare in African women, but this perception is changing. In fact, studies in South Africa and sub-Saharan Africa suggest that the condition may be more common than previously believed. In South Africa, a study reported that endometriosis was found in 2-6% of women attending infertility clinics, with higher prevalence rates among women of mixed-race and white backgrounds compared to African women. However, this may be due to cultural factors such as stigma and a lack of awareness, which may delay diagnosis among African women. [Menakaya, 2015]
Several risk factors increase the likelihood of developing endometriosis:
– Genetics: Women with a first-degree relative who has endometriosis are 5 to 10 times more likely to develop it themselves [Brandi Jones, 2025].
– Menstrual Factors: Early onset of menstruation, short menstrual cycles, and heavy periods can increase the risk. In South Africa, studies have shown that women with these menstrual patterns are more likely to be diagnosed with endometriosis [Saunders, 2021].
– Environmental Factors: Exposure to environmental toxins, including endocrine-disrupting chemicals, may contribute to the development of the disease. In South Africa, this is a growing concern as industrial pollution and chemical exposure increase [Brandi Jones, 2025].
Signs and Symptoms
The symptoms of endometriosis can vary widely among individuals. Common symptoms in South African women are similar to those globally and can include:
– Pelvic Pain: Often linked to menstruation but can also occur at other times, causing constant discomfort.
– Painful Periods (Dysmenorrhea): Severe menstrual cramps that can become progressively worse.
– Pain during Intercourse (Dyspareunia): Pain during or after sex is common.
– Painful Urination or Bowel Movements: Women may experience these symptoms, especially during menstruation.
– Excessive Bleeding: This includes heavy menstrual periods or bleeding between periods.
– Infertility: Endometriosis is present in 30–50% of women experiencing infertility. [Saunders, 2021]
Understanding Endometriosis with Blood Tests: The Female Hormone Panel
Diagnosing endometriosis can be challenging, but blood tests, like the Female Hormone Panel, can provide valuable insights. This panel measures hormone levels such as estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone—key players in the menstrual cycle that can be disrupted in women with endometriosis. By analyzing these levels, doctors can gain a better understanding of hormonal imbalances that may be contributing to symptoms like pain, heavy periods, and infertility. Early detection and hormonal profiling through this test can help guide treatment plans and improve outcomes for those struggling with endometriosis.
Impact on Women’s Lives
Endometriosis can have a significant impact on various aspects of a woman’s life, particularly in a country like South Africa where healthcare access is often unequal. This includes:
Physical Health: Chronic pain and fatigue can severely limit a woman’s ability to carry out normal daily activities, impacting both her work and personal life.
Mental Health: The persistent pain and the struggles of dealing with endometriosis can lead to depression, anxiety, and social isolation. In South Africa, where mental health care is often underfunded, the emotional toll of endometriosis is rarely addressed adequately.
Fertility: Many South African women with endometriosis struggle with fertility issues, as the condition can cause scarring and adhesions in the reproductive organs.
Work and Education: Women often miss work or school due to the pain, leading to decreased productivity and sometimes even job loss.
Treatment Options
While there is no cure for endometriosis, several treatment options can help manage symptoms. One of the key specialists in South Africa offering support for women with endometriosis is Dr. Wendy Dicks. Dr. Wendy is dedicated to helping women navigate the challenges of endometriosis, with a focus on hormonal imbalances, pain management, and fertility. She provides personalized treatment plans that include hormone therapies, pain management strategies, and lifestyle modifications tailored to each woman’s needs. Dr. Wendy’s holistic approach empowers women to regain control of their health and improve their quality of life.
Epicentre is also partnered with Femmflo, a women-focused health platform that empowers individuals to take charge of their hormonal and reproductive health. Femmflo offers advanced diagnostics, expert guidance, and personalized wellness solutions to support women in understanding their bodies and achieving optimal health. By providing tailored insights and holistic care, Femmflo is a valuable resource for women with endometriosis, helping them manage their symptoms and improve overall well-being.
Bibliography
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Mody, L., Greene, M. T., Meddings, J., Krein, S. L., McNamara, S. E., Trautner, B. W., … & Saint, S. (2017). A national implementation project to prevent catheter-associated urinary tract infection in nursing home residents. JAMA internal medicine, 177(8), 1154-1162.
