Factors of Distress in Endometriosis: The interplay between Trait Emotional Intelligence and Pain

Introduction: Endometriosis is a gynecological condition characterized by the presence of endometrial-like tissue outside of the uterus. Several studies shown the importance of pain-related symptomatology in endometriosis, which has been linked to high levels of depression, anxiety, and stress. Furthermore, consistent findings revealed that pain symptoms do not always correlate with the severity of endometriosis, showing that other factors such as psychological and emotional factors may influence pain perception. In this regard, Trait Emotional Intelligence (Trait EI) was found to be a relevant antecedent for adjustment to one's medical condition. The current study sought to verify whether the association between Trait Emotional Intelligence and General distress (depression symptoms, anxiety symptoms, and stress) in people with endometriosis would be mediated by Pain (intensity and interference with enjoyment of life, and general activity). Methods: In a sample of 276 women with endometriosis aged between 18 and 40 years old (M=30.28; SD=6.07) instruments were administered to measure Trait EI, Pain and General Distress. Results: Results of this study showed that Trait EI was negatively related to Pain and General distress, whereas General distress was positively associated to Pain. Furthermore, Pain has shown a mediation role in the relation between Trait EI and General distress. Discussion: Individuals with a low trait EI may have difficulty requesting support from significant others or physicians, as well as engaging in healthy activities while dealing with pain-related symptomatology, which may foster the onset of internalizing symptomatology. Intervention programs for individuals with endometriosis may implement modules aimed at fostering Trait EI to successfully cope with pain and should carefully screen for internalizing symptomatology to improve their clinical efficacy.