How opioids are putting women with endometriosis at risk
I had the opportunity of contributing to this article in FemTech World which sheds light on a significant issue affecting countless women.
The stark reality: women with endometriosis are at a significantly higher risk of receiving opioids and have a greater likelihood of filling prescriptions for prolonged use. Even more alarming is the heightened risk of prolonged opioid use among these women, with a fourfold increased risk of chronic opioid use compared to women without endometriosis.
It's clear that while opioid use may, at times, be necessary to manage pain associated with endometriosis, our collective responsibility is to optimise management. We must explore multifaceted approaches, such as surgical interventions, the involvement of pain specialists, and adopting a holistic approach to care to minimise inappropriate or excessive use.
Through collaborative efforts within the medical community, advocacy for enhanced research, and patient education, we can make a significant difference in the lives of those impacted by endometriosis.
Photo by Felicia Montenegro on Unsplash