The impact goes beyond physical pain and can compromise relationships and mental health
São Paulo, May 2026 – World Endometriosis Day, observed on May 7th, draws attention to this disease that affects approximately 1 in 10 women of reproductive age, but which is still surrounded by misinformation and late diagnosis. Although frequently associated with intense menstrual cramps and infertility, endometriosis also has a significant impact on sexual life and relationships.
Scientific studies show that between 30% and 50% of women with endometriosis report pain during sexual intercourse, a condition known as dyspareunia, according to a review published in the journalBMC Women's Health. In many cases, this impact is even broader: up to 80% of patients say the disease impairs their sex life, and more than half avoid intercourse due to pain, according to research from the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. Furthermore, the research also shows that 67% of women avoid sexual intercourse because of pain, and 68% report significant sexual distress.
“Pain during intercourse is not normal and needs to be investigated. Many women live with this symptom for years without a diagnosis, which affects not only the body, but also self-esteem and emotional bonds,” explains Dr. Kátia Piton Serra, gynecologist and professor at São Leopoldo Mandic.
Dyspareunia, as pain during sexual intercourse is known, can be associated with more severe forms of the disease and is often accompanied by other symptoms, such as chronic pelvic pain, bowel changes, and fatigue. Over time, the recurrence of pain can lead to a significant emotional impact, directly interfering with how a woman experiences her own sexuality.
“When pain becomes recurrent, it’s common for the brain to start anticipating this discomfort, creating a cycle of avoidance and anxiety. This can affect sexual desire, connection with the partner, and even trigger anxiety or depression,” explains Dr. Letícia Amici, psychiatrist and professor at São Leopoldo Mandic.
According to the specialists, the treatment of endometriosis should go beyond controlling physical symptoms. “A multidisciplinary approach is fundamental, including psychological support and, in some cases, sexual health counseling. Care needs to be comprehensive, looking at the patient's quality of life as a whole,” emphasizes the gynecologist.
Warning signs that should not be ignored
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Intense and debilitating colic
- Pelvic pain outside of the menstrual period
- Bowel or urinary changes during the menstrual cycle
Early diagnosis is essential to prevent the progression of the disease and reduce its impact on the personal, emotional, and relational lives of patients.
About São Leopoldo Mandic
Considered one of the top ten higher education institutions in the country for 15 consecutive years according to the MEC's General Course Index (IGC), the São Leopoldo Mandic Faculty in Campinas brings together a faculty of PhD professors with extensive scientific production, trained at the best educational institutions in Brazil and abroad. Structured with state-of-the-art laboratories, complete dental clinics, and practice settings in affiliated hospitals and Basic Health Units, the institution offers students practical experience in Dentistry and Medicine courses from the 1st year, as well as research activities and community service. It has realistic simulation laboratories, modern resources for diagnosis and training, and an innovation HUB, all serving undergraduate and postgraduate courses. It also has extension projects such as the Health Boat, which brings medical and dental care to underprivileged communities. The São Leopoldo Mandic Faculty is part of the Mandic Group, which has nine other postgraduate units distributed throughout the country and one in Portugal. The Group also includes three other undergraduate medical schools, located in the cities of Araras-SP, Limeira-SP, and the Sertão Medical School (FMS) in Arcoverde-PE.
Press Office of the Mandic Group:
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