Study title

Endometriosis is a common, disabling gynaecological condition affecting approximately 2 million women in the UK. Common symptoms are chronic pelvic pain, fatigue, heavy periods, and pain experienced during sexual intercourse. It may also affect fertility. There is no consensus on what causes endometriosis and there is no definitive cure. Despite the chronic and potentially disabling nature of endometriosis, along with its impact across a wide range of life domains, there is relatively little work on what it means to live with this condition.The overall aim of this study is to explore the impact of endometriosis on couples in particular, and to enhance the well being of people living with endometriosis by providing an evidence base for improving couple support. This is a qualitative study in three phases. Phase One is a contextual phase consisting of interviews with key informants including healthcare providers, patients, and support group representatives. Phase Two includes in-depth interviews with heterosexual women and their male partners. Phase Three involves a Stakeholder Workshop which will collaboratively explore the findings and discuss how insights from this work contribute to improved support for couples and also inform theories of chronic illness more generally.