The “Endophant” in the Room: A Scoping Review of Relationship Satisfaction in Couples Managing Endometriosis

Journal Publication ResearchOnline@JCU
Redmond, Heidi O.M.;Shaw, Lauren;Ahern, Tracey;Young, Kirra;Radke, Helena R.M.
Abstract

Endometriosis may impact many aspects of a person’s life including their relationships with romantic and sexual partners. This scoping review examined individual and dyadic impacts of endometriosis on relationship satisfaction from the perspectives of both the person with endometriosis and their partner. Sexual dysfunction, infertility, and psychological distress were found to be significant contributors of lower relationship satisfaction. Relational coping strategies such as effective communication and reframing expectations around sex, intimacy, and needs emerged as strategies that improved satisfaction between couples adversely affected by endometriosis. These findings suggest that multidisciplinary management should target both the affected individual and their partner.

Journal

Women's Reproductive Health

Publication Name

Women's Reproductive Health

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ISBN/ISSN

2329-3713

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Pages Count

22

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Publisher

Taylor & Francis Online

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EISSN

N/A

DOI

10.1080/23293691.2026.2713173