First Lady Sajidha Mohamed has emphasised the need for collaborative efforts to build a health system that can ensure women's health and prevent conditions such as endometriosis.
She delivered the remarks at Dharumavantha Hospital, as the Guest of Honour at the closing ceremony of Workshop Series Episode 3, “Embracing Wellness: A Holistic and Evidence-Based Approach to Understanding Endometriosis in Light of Current Research”, organised by the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Maldives (SOGM).
In her address, the First Lady highlighted that one in ten women suffer from endometriosis. She described the condition as an “extraordinary” disease, commending the extraordinary patience and resilience of ordinary women who endure chronic pain in silence while managing both professional and domestic responsibilities.
Endometriosis is a disease in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus. It can cause severe pain in the pelvis and make it harder to get pregnant.
Acknowledging the emotional and physical toll of the condition, the First Lady noted its frequent misdiagnosis and the stigma surrounding menstrual health. She emphasised the need for early detection, compassionate care, and community engagement, urging healthcare providers to listen attentively and act decisively. She warned that misdiagnosis often leads to disease progression, requiring surgery.
“The impact of endometriosis extends beyond physical symptoms. Whether the disease is diagnosed or not, it affects mental health and physical health. It causes chronic pain and fertility challenges, creates anxiety and heartache and adversely affects the quality of life of women,” she said.
The First Lady said the discussions held over the past two days have highlighted the impact of endometriosis on Maldivian women. She described it as not only a health issue, but also a disease that affects many individuals, families and communities. Education and awareness remain among the most powerful tools in tackling the disease, she said.
The First Lady called on healthcare professionals, institutions, and communities to prioritise research, timely care, and collective action in addressing the growing impact of endometriosis on women’s health in the Maldives. She stressed that staying informed about the latest research, diagnostic techniques, and treatment options is not optional but essential.
Welcoming recent policy reforms, the First Lady commended the government’s decision to extend Aasandha, the universal healthcare scheme, to include treatment for endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), describing it as a landmark step towards equitable access.
She further urged relevant institutions to implement insights from the workshop, develop a national action plan, and promote menstrual health awareness in schools. Commending SOGM’s efforts to connect specialists nationwide, she praised their dedication to inclusive care and shared learning.
Concluding her address, the First Lady delivered a resolute call to action, urging all stakeholders to become steadfast advocates for women’s health and to break the silence surrounding endometriosis. She underscored that the workshop must serve not only as a forum for discussion but as a catalyst for lasting and transformative change across the healthcare sector.