Virtual mindfulness-based therapy for the management of endometriosis chronic pelvic pain: a novel delivery platform to increase access to care.

A virtual mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) program improved several quality-of-life domains in people with endometriosis, though it did not change pain scores or medication use. Among 15 participants recruited from a Canadian outpatient clinic, 10 completed the 8-week virtual program. Scores on the Endometriosis Health Profile showed statistically significant improvements in control and powerlessness, emotional well-being, social support, and self-image. In a focus group, participants attributed benefits to a sense of community, education about their condition, and applying mindfulness tools when approaching pain. The virtual format was effective and preferred over in-person sessions.

Study at a glance

Abstract

OBJECTIVE This study assessed the effectiveness of a virtual mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) program to improve quality of life and pain in people with endometriosis. METHODS This was a multiple methods, before and after study design. Fifteen patients with a clinical or surgical diagnosis of endometriosis were recruited from a Canadian outpatient gynaecology clinic. Participants completed the Endometriosis Health Profile (EHP), a validated survey tool, and a pain medication use questionnaire before and after a virtual 8 week MBSR program run by an experienced social worker. A focus group was held upon completion of the program to assess participants' experiences using mindfulness for management of endometriosis symptoms. Quantitative data was analyzed with paired-samples t tests. Qualitative data was thematically analyzed. RESULTS 67% of people enrolled completed the MBSR course (10/15). Following the MBSR program, participants had a statistically significant decrease in four components of the EHP: control and powerlessness (P = 0.012), emotional well-being (P = 0.048), social support (P = 0.030), and self-image (P = 0.014). There was no change in pain scores or medication use. Participants felt the program's benefits came from a sense of community, education about their condition, and application of mindfulness tools when approaching pain. Participants felt more comfortable with the virtual format over in-person sessions. CONCLUSIONS A virtual MBSR course can improve quality of life domains in people with endometriosis. The virtual format was effective and preferred by participants. Virtual MBSR programs may increase access to this type of care.