HomeAsia-Pacific Social Science Reviewvol. 17 no. 2 (2017)

Living with Endometriosis in the Philippines

Jeane C. Peracullo

 

Abstract:

What is it like to live with endometriosis in the Philippines? In the course of my decades-long search for a permanent treatment for endometriosis, I have collected a significant number of experiences of the many ways issues of gender, class, and access to quality health care have intersected among, and within, each other. This essay seeks to share my story of endometriosis, a debilitating condition that I have been living with for the most part of my reproductive years. Although it would seem that endometriosis is just a simple gynecological condition that affects women only, the disease requires multiple approaches, interventions, and attention from all members of the community. The realities of Philippine society and the state of health care in the country make for a compelling case to elevate awareness about a disease that targets women in their reproductive and productive years. The impact of endometriosis is evident in the marital/sexual relationships, social spirit, and on physical and psychological aspects of women’s lives (Moradi, Parker, Sneddon, Lopez, & Ellwood, 2014)