Awareness and Prevalence of Endometriosis among Women with Fertility Challenges attending Gynaecology Clinic in a Tertiary Hospital in Nigeria

Background: Endometriosis is a chronic gynecological condition with significant implications for fertility and quality of life. This study investigates the awareness and prevalence of endometriosis among women with fertility challenges attending the gynecology clinic of a tertiary hospital in southeast Nigeria. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 421 women aged 18–49 years presenting with fertility challenges. Participants were systematically sampled and completed a structured questionnaire assessing sociodemographic characteristics, awareness, and symptomatology of endometriosis. Clinical records were reviewed to confirm diagnoses. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26.0, with descriptive statistics summarizing key findings. Results: The mean age of participants was 31.2 years (SD ± 5.4). Awareness of endometriosis was moderate (57.24%), with healthcare providers being the primary source of information (68.46%). Despite this, only 16.86% knew its etiology, and 19.48% recognized its symptoms. The prevalence of endometriosis was 24.47%, with stages II (43.70%) and I (25.24%) being most common. Symptoms such as dysmenorrhea (33.66%) and pelvic pain (27.72%) were prevalent, significantly impacting daily life in 22.80% of participants. Primary infertility was more common (79.57%), and 50.12% reported being informed by healthcare providers about the potential impact of endometriosis on fertility. Conclusion: Awareness of endometriosis among women with fertility challenges remains suboptimal, despite a notable prevalence rate. Efforts should focus on improving education about endometriosis and enhancing early diagnostic capabilities in clinical settings.