Hospital da Mulher do Pará ensures treatment for endometriosis affecting millions of women in Brazil

The persistent pain and difficulty in diagnosing endometriosis are still part of the reality for many Brazilian women. However, patients like Sirlene Almeida, 32, from the municipality of Floresta do Araguaia, have found the necessary support and treatment at the Hospital da Mulher do Pará (HMPA) to regain their quality of life.

"When I arrived here, I thought I had another disease. It was during the gynecological evaluation that I received the diagnosis of endometriosis. The team explained everything to me, I needed surgery, and I can only be grateful. Everyone here — doctors, nurses, cleaning staff — cares with love," reported the patient, who underwent the surgical procedure at the state unit, a reference for complex cases of the disease.

Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects about 7 million women in Brazil, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). It occurs when tissue similar to the endometrium, which lines the uterus, grows outside of it, causing severe pelvic pain, intestinal and urinary changes, in addition to a direct impact on fertility.

Gynecologist Karen Souza, a specialist in treating the disease, emphasizes that the diagnosis is often delayed and highlights the importance of access to information and specialized care.

"Our goal is to detect it early and propose the most appropriate treatment for each patient. About 80% of cases are treated clinically, with continuous follow-up by a multidisciplinary team, including physiotherapy, nutrition, psychology, and, when necessary, surgery. All of this is available at the hospital," she explained.

In addition to medication treatment, adopting healthy habits is part of controlling endometriosis. Diet plays a fundamental role, and inflammatory foods such as sugar, milk, gluten, and processed foods should be avoided. Nutritional guidance, physical activity, stress management, and quality sleep are complementary approaches offered by the HMPA team.

The gynecologist also warns about the most common symptoms of the disease, such as intense menstrual cramps that interfere with daily life, pain during sexual intercourse, changes in bowel function, and difficulties in getting pregnant.

"Not all cramps are normal. If the pain is cyclical, debilitating, and accompanied by other symptoms, it needs to be investigated. Transvaginal ultrasound with bowel preparation and magnetic resonance imaging are the most indicated exams for diagnosis," she added.

Patient Deuzini dos Santos, 38, from Jacundá, is also starting her treatment at the hospital. "I discovered I had endometriosis three years ago. I take a lot of pain medication, but I can't work. Here I found a team that explains everything and welcomes me. I am eager to start," she said.

The Hospital da Mulher do Pará thus reinforces its role as a reference in diagnosis, treatment, and comprehensive care for women from all regions of the state, ensuring dignified access to quality public health.

Service - To be treated at the Hospital da Mulher, the patient must initially seek care at a Basic Health Unit (UBS) or another health unit in the municipality where she resides and the nearest region, in addition to a medical referral from the Usinas da Paz. The Hospital da Mulher do Pará is located at Av. Gentil Bittencourt, No. 2175. Neighborhood: São Brás.