Keyword : Women, Endometriosis, Menstrual stigma, Cultural beliefs, Healthcare barriers, Community engagement
Author(s) : Agabison Dorcas;? Okpoko C.C.? & Lazarus Siman
Abstract :
This qualitative study examines how mass communication can enhance women’s awareness of endometriosis and reduce misdiagnosis in Wukari Local Government Area (LGA), Taraba State, Nigeria. Six focus group discussions (6–8 participants each) were conducted with women aged 15–24, 25–34, and 35–49, alongside a mixed group of healthcare and media practitioners. Participants were purposively selected, sessions were moderated by trained female facilitators in English, Hausa, and Jukun, audio-recorded with consent, and analysed using thematic content analysis following ethical approval from the Taraba State Ministry of Health Ethical Review Board. Findings reveal a profound knowledge gap: most women had never heard the term “endometriosis,” despite describing hallmark symptoms cyclic pelvic pain, heavy bleeding, and infertility, which were normalized or interpreted through spiritual frames. Stigma and taboos around menstruation curtailed open discussion and delayed health-seeking. Interactions with the health system frequently involved dismissive attitudes, symptomatic treatment with analgesics/antibiotics, and limited referral pathways, reinforcing medical gaslighting and prolonged diagnostic delay. These experiences were compounded by scarce specialized gynecologic services in rural facilities. The local communication ecosystem presents both gaps and opportunities. Radio and interpersonal messaging from health workers are the most trusted channels but are narrowly focused on pregnancy, immunization, and infectious diseases, with little or no content on chronic gynecologic disorders. Religious gatherings, posters (often in English), and market announcements have reached but rarely address menstruation-related conditions due to cultural sensitivities. Social media resonates with younger women, yet is hindered by language barriers and variable credibility. The Health Belief Model helps explain low perceived susceptibility, high perceived barriers (stigma, cost, provider dismissal), and the need for salient “cues to action,” while Diffusion of Innovations underscores leveraging early adopters and interpersonal networks to normalize help-seeking. Recommended actions include targeted media programming on endometriosis, provider training to counter diagnostic dismissal, and creation of peer support structures integrated with primary care. In sum, a culturally grounded, multi-platform communication strategy—rooted in HBM and DOI—can elevate awareness, reduce stigma, and shorten the path to diagnosis for women in Wukari LGA.
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