Abstract

Endometriosis is a chronic disease associated with severe, life-impacting pain symptoms and impaired fertility that can affect relationships, sexuality, family life, social relationships, and working life. The aim of the present study was to describe endometriosis patients’ experiences of the counseling they need from the nurses through the digital care pathway. A qualitative descriptive study was conducted; 14 Finnish women with endometriosis were interviewed. Content analysis revealed four main categories related to counseling provided through the digital care pathway: counseling on endometriosis and its role in life; counseling on how to live with endometriosis; comprehensive support for self-care; and patient-oriented counseling. Nurses should provide counseling at different stages of the disease, because the symptoms of endometriosis can change rapidly in a short period of time, and these are the moments when the patient needs support and advice from the nurses. The digital care pathway can provide reliable information to patients at the right time of disease progression. The study was planned and reported using the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research Checklist.