The Influence of Exercise on Endometriosis Symptoms. Exploring Experiences and Practices among Colombo-Based Members of the Endometriosis Support Group in Sri Lanka

Abstract

Endometriosis is a chronic and often devastating condition that affects a significant number of women global, triggering symptoms such as heavy menstruation, pelvic pain, and infertility. Even with its recognition by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the designation of March 28 as Endometriosis Awareness Day, there remains no definitive cure or specific medication for the condition. The lack of effective treatment and the severe physical and emotional toll of endometriosis can significantly affect women’s quality of life. Even globally famous Public figures has committed suicide due to unbearable pain and emotions with endometriosis. This study aims to discover the experiences and applies of women with endometriosis in Colombo, Sri Lanka, specifically focusing on the role of general exercise as an empowering tool for handling symptoms and revised overall stranded of living. The study will focus on 70 women who are members of the Endometriosis Support Community Group in Colombo, aged 18 and above. A sample size determination table, a sample size of 59 women will be selected for the research. The main purposes of this study are to examine the effect of general exercise on both physical and mental health, identify the types of exercises trained, and explore how exercise can subsidize to symptom relief. A quantitative approach will be used, with data collected through structured interviews, which will be analyzed using thematic analysis. It is anticipated that the study will reveal that exercise plays a significant role in alleviating physical symptoms, reducing stress, and improving the sense of control over the disorder. The research expected to provide valuable understandings into how exercise can support to women with endometriosis in Sri Lanka, possibly leading to better health outcomes and enhanced stranded of living. This analysis suggests that increased exercise (as an intervention or pain management) is positively associated with symptom reduction. The model showed moderate ability to predict symptoms based on exercise, 46.8%*symptoms (R² = 0.468). The coefficient for exercise is 0.614, suggesting that for every 1-unit increase in exercise, symptom reduction increases by 0.614 units, indicating a positive relationship between the two. As exercise accounts for nearly 47% of the variance in symptoms, combining targeted exercise programs or interventions may improve health outcomes. Additionally, further research may help identify whether increased exercise may lead to better symptom management across different populations in Sri Lanka.