Endometriosis at the Intersection: Trauma, Identity, and the Struggle for Equitable Care—A Narrative Review
Abstract
Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting millions worldwide, yet it remains underdiagnosed and undertreated—particularly among marginalized individuals. Drawing on medical sociology, feminist theory, and trauma studies, this paper challenges dominant biomedical narratives through four themes: medical dismissal and diagnostic delay; trauma as an amplifier of pain; erasure of intersectional identities in clinical care; and patient resistance through self-advocacy. Systemic biases rooted in racism, sexism, classism, ableism, and transphobia compound the trauma of endometriosis, causing physical and psychological harm. We call for trauma-informed, intersectional, and reproductive-justice frameworks to create more equitable, inclusive care for all people with endometriosis.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Intimate Partner and Family Violence
Gender
Security
and Conflict
Endometriosis Research and Treatment
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Women s Reproductive Health
- Publisher
- Informa UK Limited
- Volume
- 13
- Issue
- 2
- Pages
- 555–574
- Publication date
- 3 April 2026
- Language
- EN