Four women in French overseas territories are sharing their experiences living with endometriosis, a chronic inflammatory disease affecting one in ten women of reproductive age in France. Alyson (Martinique), Elodie (Guadeloupe), Loraina (Guyane), and Lindy (La Réunion) detail their journeys with the condition, highlighting the challenges of diagnosis, chronic pain, and the impact on their desire for motherhood.
Endometriosis is characterized by the presence of endometrial tissue outside the uterus, causing pelvic pain and other symptoms depending on the location of the lesions. The disease often goes undiagnosed for years; on average, it takes seven years to receive a diagnosis in France, according to the Ministry of Health.
The women’s stories reveal a systemic underestimation of the disease and its impact. They describe utilizing various coping mechanisms, including support groups, therapeutic interventions, complementary medicine, exercise, advocacy work, and dietary adjustments.
While endometriosis is increasingly recognized as a public health issue nationally, access to care remains a significant challenge in the French overseas territories. Structures for care are developing, but remain unevenly distributed, leading to frequent delays in diagnosis. La Réunion has established structured care pathways, while local associations in Martinique are working to raise awareness and support patients.
Endometriosis is now considered one of the leading causes of infertility, affecting 30 to 40% of women with the condition, according to EndoFrance. The disease can disrupt multiple stages of the reproductive process, including ovulation, fertilization, and implantation. Despite this, the organization stresses that endometriosis does not automatically equate to infertility, with many women successfully conceiving spontaneously or with assisted reproductive technologies.
A national strategy to combat endometriosis was launched in France in 2022, focusing on research, improved diagnosis and access to care, and public awareness. The French National Institute of Health and Medical Research (Inserm) is as well conducting research into the disease, its causes, and potential treatments.
The documentary featuring Alyson, Elodie, Loraina, and Lindy aims to break the silence surrounding endometriosis and raise awareness of the condition, which affects thousands of women in silence. The Centre Fertilité Tenon – APHP provides support for women with endometriosis seeking treatment for infertility or fertility preservation.
