Women's Knowledge and Practice about Endometriosis and the Effect of Positive Coping Strategies on Reducing Associated Symptoms: A Pre and Post-Intervention Study

Background: Endometriosis occurs in 5% to 15% of women of reproductive age. It causes numerous problems at various social, psychological, and emotional levels. Aim: Assess women's knowledge and practice about endometriosis and the effect of positive coping strategies on reducing associated symptoms. Design: A quasi-experimental study design. Setting: The study was conducted in the endoscopy unit, Zagazig University Hospitals, and Al Ahrar Hospital, Egypt. Sample: A purposive sample of 150 women diagnosed with endometriosis, and they booked for laparoscopic surgery. Tools of data collection: A structured interviewing questionnaire, the Numeric Pain Rating Scale, the American Society of Reproductive Medicine endometriosis scoring, and nursing program tools. Results: Most participants had painful periods, pelvic adhesions, and moderate (3rd) grade endometriosis. The mean knowledge scores of women before applying coping strategies were 5.96 compared to 35.85 after applying coping. Besides, the mean practice score before applying coping strategies was 7.72 compared to 36.0 after applying coping strategies. The mean women's pain scores with endometriosis were 8.32 before applying coping strategies compared to 3.11 after applying coping strategies. There is a significant difference (p<0.00). Conclusion: The results of the study concluded that there was a lack of knowledge and insufficient practice for women about endometriosis. Moreover, coping strategies positively affected women's knowledge and practice regarding endometriosis as well as reducing associated pain. Recommendations: This study highlights the principal role of nursing education programs and strategies for increasing awareness, knowledge, and practices of women with endometriosis.