Feasibility and acceptability of a group-based cognitive behavioural therapy and mindfulness program for people living with endometriosis

Endometriosis is a persistent gynaecological condition experienced by approximately one in nine people, assigned female at birth. Endometriosis-related symptoms negatively affect health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and psychological wellbeing despite medical treatment, suggesting the need for psychological management. The present study aimed to address quality concerns identified in clinical trials assessing the efficacy of psychological interventions for improving HRQoL and psychological wellbeing for individuals with endometriosis. An eight-week group-based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness program for individuals diagnosed with endometriosis was developed and piloted to determine the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy in addressing reduced HRQoL and psychological wellbeing. Sixty-four participants with medically confirmed endometriosis were allocated to either a group therapy or care as usual sample via open label allocation (participant choice). Participants completed the Endometriosis Health Profile (EHP-30), Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21), and the Cognitive and Mindfulness Scale, revised (CAMS-R) at baseline, 8 weeks, one-month follow-up, and 6 months follow-up. Participants enrolled in the group therapy sample reported significantly improved HRQoL, anxiety, stress, and mindfulness scores from baseline to 8 weeks and follow-up. The developed CBT and mindfulness for endometriosis program was found to be feasible and acceptable with preliminary evidence also supporting its efficacy in addressing reduced HRQoL and psychological wellbeing. The findings provide further support for the inclusion of psychological interventions in the multimodal management of endometriosis.