the women in this research. Education was interrupted,
careers impeded and social participation curtailed because
of the impact of symptoms on everyday functioning.
Well-informed nurses and other health professionals can
play an important role in mitigating this impact through
proactively taking the time to discuss with women potential
issues along with strategies to manage the disease.
Initially, primary health providers need to elucidate fully
women’s history of symptoms and to promptly refer for
diagnostic procedures. Information about endometriosis
and endometriosis support group provision is another key
intervention required at appropriate stages throughout
the illness after enquiry about the women’s level of
knowledge. This information should include the lifestyle
and nutritional factors recommended by women with
endometriosis, as well as information about the strengths
and problems with medically specific treatment. The
comprehensive and ongoing treatment of the symptoms of
endometriosis is critical in enabling women to maintain
their social relationships and career opportunities.