Science, behind the hope of many women with endometriosis

Endometriosis is one of the most common gynecological diseases among women of reproductive age , affecting approximately 10% of the female population . Although it is primarily associated with symptoms such as chronic pain and difficulty conceiving , its impact extends far beyond these . This condition affects employment , mental health , and motherhood , making its diagnosis and treatment matters of significant social importance .

For many women, an endometriosis diagnosis presents not only a medical challenge but also an obstacle to their personal and professional development . The intense pain characteristic of this disease, along with the treatment periods, can interfere with their ability to attend work or maintain an active social life. In fact, it is estimated that 20-30% of women with endometriosis experience absenteeism from work due to pain or complications associated with the disease, which can impact their economic and professional stability .

Furthermore, the psychological impact of endometriosis is significant. The frustration of not receiving a quick and clear diagnosis , coupled with the fear of being unable to have children , can lead to feelings of isolation and chronic stress . Depression and anxiety are prevalent among those who suffer from the disease, affecting their overall well-being and quality of life .

One of the biggest challenges for women with endometriosis is the impact the disease has on their ability to become mothers. In addition to difficulties conceiving, women with endometriosis have an increased risk of pregnancy complications, such as preeclampsia and miscarriage . These factors further exacerbate the emotional and psychological distress , leading many women to face a real battle to achieve a healthy pregnancy .

However, scientific research is progressing and offering new hope for these women. The study conducted by the research group "Treatment and Diagnosis of Uterine Diseases," led by Dr. Hortensia Ferrero at the IVI Foundation , seeks to unravel the underlying biological causes of pregnancy complications in women with endometriosis and states that "these advances promote a science that places the female body at the center of scientific knowledge, which not only seeks to cure, but also to improve quality of life and ensure medical care more focused on the reality of women with endometriosis."

The analysis conducted by Dr. Ferrero and her team at the La Fe Health Research Institute in Valencia has revealed important discoveries regarding the proteomic profile of the endometrium in women with endometriosis. Using advanced endometrial organoid culture models , they have identified how alterations in more than 360 proteins could be responsible for pregnancy complications, such as miscarriage or preeclampsia . These advances could pave the way for personalized treatments that not only improve fertility but also help prevent complications during pregnancy .

The use of endometrial organoids , which allow the recreation of conditions similar to those at the beginning of pregnancy in the laboratory, is an example of how science can generate innovative solutions to complex health problems .

This scientific breakthrough represents a light at the end of the tunnel for many women struggling with the effects of endometriosis, offering the possibility of safer motherhood and treatments that can be tailored to each patient's individual needs. In the words of Dr. Ferrero , "We can study how their endometrium responds to hormones and medications, or even identify specific alterations related to endometriosis. This will allow us to design personalized treatments for these women to improve endometrial receptivity and reduce pregnancy risks ." As research continues, women affected by endometriosis can expect not only medical advances, but also greater recognition of the social and professional challenges they face daily.

Ultimately, the science behind endometriosis not only seeks to alleviate physical pain, but also to improve women's quality of life , giving them the opportunity to lead fuller and healthier lives, both personally and professionally. "This study not only analyzes dysregulated proteins and metabolic pathways in the endometrium of women with endometriosis, but also focuses on women's health , and specifically, the health of women with endometriosis, recognizing the importance of their experiences and working to ensure their needs are met and concrete solutions to their problems can be developed," concludes Dr. Ferrero.

Endometriosis is one of the most common gynecological diseases among women of reproductive age , affecting approximately 10% of the female population . Although it is primarily associated with symptoms such as chronic pain and difficulty conceiving , its impact extends far beyond these . This condition affects employment , mental health , and motherhood , making its diagnosis and treatment matters of significant social importance .