"Beyond Symptoms: Quality of Life Challenges Among Women Living with Chronic Gynecological Conditions"

Abstract: Chronic gynecological conditions represent a significant yet often underrecognized burden affecting women across the lifespan. Disorders such as endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome, chronic pelvic pain, uterine fibroids, adenomyosis, and chronic vulvovaginal conditions not only result in persistent physical discomfort but also profoundly disrupt psychological well-being, social functioning, sexual health, occupational productivity, and overall quality of life. While medical management frequently prioritizes symptom control and disease progression, the broader quality of life implications remain insufficiently addressed in clinical practice and research. This review article aims to comprehensively examine the multidimensional quality of life issues experienced by women with chronic gynecological conditions, integrating physical, psychological, social, sexual, reproductive, and economic perspectives. It also highlights sociocultural influences, stigma, delayed diagnosis, and health system barriers that exacerbate these challenges. Furthermore, the article underscores the crucial role of healthcare professionals, particularly nurses and midwives, in delivering holistic, patient-centered care that extends beyond symptom management. By synthesizing existing literature, this review advocates for integrated, interdisciplinary approaches and policy-level interventions to improve long-term quality of life outcomes for affected women. Addressing quality of life as a central outcome is essential for advancing equitable, compassionate, and effective gynecological healthcare.