Emma Larouche
30 July 2024: With around one in seven people assigned female at birth estimated to have endometriosis in Australia, a team of University of Canberra researchers has embarked on a study to better understand the experiences of those with the condition and contribute to better support and treatment options.
Dr Andrew Flood, from the University’s Research Institute for Sport and Exercise (UCRISE), and part of the Institute’s Active Brain Group is leading the study alongside collaborators Annaleise Naylor and Aidan Lewis.
“Understanding sensory and cognitive differences in those diagnosed with endometriosis may offer new insights into the condition and potentially open new avenues for treatment,” Dr Flood said.
The team is collecting data via an online survey to determine whether those living with endometriosis think about pain and experience bodily sensations differently, whether chronic pain may impact the way they think about the future and if there are any differences in their physical activity and physical literacy.
Three Bachelor of Science in Psychology (Honours) students are also involved in the project and will analyse the data collected from the survey, dividing it into three different categories – interoception (the ability to sense your internal state), physical activity/literacy and pain cognitions.
Following the data analysis, the second phase of the study will look at interventions based on the areas of expertise within the research team, focusing on brain stimulation techniques used in other chronic pain conditions and physical activity assessments.
With the first phase of the study underway, those living in Australia are invited to complete the online survey, enabling the researchers to gain more insights into the sensory and cognitive aspects of endometriosis.
“We want to hear from anyone living with endometriosis or others who want to improve the lives of their friends and loved ones who have been diagnosed with this condition – your contribution will help us learn more about this under-researched area,” Dr Flood said.
The online survey can be accessed here.
