Endometriosis in Singapore: Addressing Misdiagnosis and Fertility Issues

Endometriosis, affecting approximately one in ten women of childbearing age, remains a pressing health issue in Singapore, often leading to chronic pain, heavy bleeding, and infertility. Despite its prevalence, many women endure years of suffering before receiving a proper diagnosis, as highlighted by numerous patient testimonies and expert analyses.

The condition arises when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, causing debilitating symptoms. According to Dr. Kelly Loi, an obstetrics and gynecology specialist at Mount Elizabeth Hospital, nearly one-third of women diagnosed with endometriosis experience infertility. "Endometriosis is a common cause of infertility, as it can distort pelvic anatomy and affect ovulation, leading to irreversible damage on fertility," she explained in a statement made on July 23, 2025.

Chronic pain and emotional anguish characterize the lives of many women suffering from endometriosis. Mojisola Erdt, a senior scientist diagnosed with Stage 4 endometriosis, shared her struggle: "The pain felt like someone stabbing me and twisting the knife around." After almost 30 years of worsening symptoms and multiple miscarriages, Erdt underwent a hysterectomy in 2024, ending her hopes of having another child.

The delay in diagnosis is a critical issue. According to Dr. Ma Li, an endometriosis and reproductive health specialist at Mount Elizabeth Hospital, women often seek medical help two years after symptoms emerge, yet it can take an average of seven to eight years to receive a diagnosis. "In many Asian cultures, women are socialized to tolerate menstrual pain, leading to underreporting of symptoms," Dr. Ma noted, emphasizing the importance of recognizing that severe menstrual pain is not normal.

Compounding the problem is a lack of awareness among healthcare providers. Dr. Eleanor Loh, who experienced a decade-long search for answers before being diagnosed, described her journey as "lonely and hopeless". "Medical practitioners often perform ultrasound scans limited to the uterus and ovaries, missing the disease's presence in other areas like the bladder and bowels," she stated. This oversight can lead to misdiagnosis or inadequate treatment, perpetuating the cycle of pain and suffering.

On an international scale, the World Health Organization estimates that around 190 million women worldwide suffer from endometriosis. The condition not only impacts physical health but also mental well-being. Studies, including a 2023 article in the Journal of Women's Health, emphasize the psychological distress associated with chronic pain and infertility stemming from endometriosis.

Despite the challenges, advocates like Namira Binte Mohamad Marsudi, founder of the non-profit organization E for Endometriosis, are working to raise awareness and provide support. "There has been a shift in public perception about intense menstrual pain in recent years, but continued advocacy is essential to ensure that awareness doesn't fade," she stressed during a recent interview.

Moreover, systemic changes are needed within the healthcare sector. Professor Chong Yap-Seng, Dean of the NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, noted a significant gender health gap, where women's health issues are often deprioritized. "Endometriosis causes massive loss of productivity in women, yet advancements in treatment have been limited due to this gap," he pointed out.

As awareness increases, women like Erdt and Loh are turning their experiences into advocacy. Dr. Loh aims to specialize in endometriosis care, while Erdt is developing a digital health app to assist women in tracking their symptoms. "The strength I find is in the pain I’ve gone through, and my goal is to help others so they don’t have to suffer alone," Erdt stated.

In conclusion, the ongoing struggles faced by women with endometriosis underscore the urgent need for improved diagnostic practices, greater awareness among healthcare providers, and continued advocacy to support those affected by this debilitating condition. As society progresses, the hope is that women will no longer suffer in silence, but instead find the support and treatment they deserve.