Endometriosis Explained: Dr. Elif Polat on Advocacy and Empowerment | MaternalRx

In this episode of MaternalRx, Dr. Elif Polat, MD, researcher, endometriosis advocate, and Turkey representative for Worldwide EndoMarch, joins Dr. Danielle Plummer to discuss the often misunderstood and deeply complex condition of endometriosis. Dr. Polat unpacks what endometriosis truly is, explaining how it’s both an inflammatory and hormone-dependent disease that can affect any organ in the body, even beyond the reproductive system. She reveals why diagnosis can take up to ten years, why standard tests often miss it, and how its symptoms can extend far beyond pelvic pain, sometimes presenting in surprising ways. The conversation dives into how endometriosis impacts fertility, pregnancy, and the risk of ectopic pregnancy, and clarifies when tools like hysteroscopy may be appropriate. Dr. Polat also dispels common myths, such as the belief that pregnancy or hysterectomy can cure the disease, and emphasizes the importance of continued research and advocacy. Listeners will gain insight into how endometriosis affects not only patients but their families and communities, and how global initiatives like Worldwide EndoMarch (@endomarch) are driving awareness and change. Stay through the end for Dr. Plummer’s “Final Thoughts,” where she reflects on how pharmacists can better support patients through empathy, education, and collaboration. Connect with Dr. Elif Polat: www.linkedin.com/in/elif-polat-md-a20a0b18b/ Connect with WorldWide EndoMarch Instagram: @wwendomarch https://endomarch.org/ Connect with Dr. Plummer: www.linkedin.com/in/daniellerplummer/