Endometriosis and expressions of self-management and resilience among Asian women living in Canada during the COVID-19 pandemic: A photovoice study

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic posed unique challenges for Asian people living with endometriosis. The purpose of this study was to describe the endometriosis-related coping and self-management strategies used by South, East, and Southeast Asian women living in British Columbia, Canada, during the COVID-19 pandemic and how these contributed to their strength and resilience. Design and methods: Using photovoice methodology, South, East, and Southeast Asian women residing in a Western Canadian province were invited to generate photographs representing their experiences of living with endometriosis during the COVID-19 pandemic. Photographs were discussed during semi-structured interviews, and data were thematically analyzed. Results: Women (n = 22) conveyed that during the COVID-19 pandemic: (1) their social support context played a pivotal role in shaping their experiences and ability to cope with and self-manage their endometriosis, which involved (2) taking empowering actions in daily living, accessing healthcare, and acquiring knowledge. (3) Taking empowering actions fostered a sense of inner strength and resilience characterized by advocating for self and others, carrying forward empowering actions to other life domains, and cultivating gratitude and hope for their future. Conclusions: East, South, and Southeast Asian women demonstrated a resilience approach to living with endometriosis during the COVID-19 pandemic. By drawing on support systems and coping and management strategies, they built resilience mechanisms that promoted well-being and sustainability.